Personality and Behavioral Predictors of Pressure Ulcer History

Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2010 · DOI: 10.1310/sci1602-61 · Published: January 1, 2010

Spinal Cord Injury Dermatology Public Health

Simple Explanation

This research investigates factors associated with pressure ulcers (PUs) in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), focusing on psychological, environmental, and behavioral influences. The study found that behavioral factors, such as smoking and medication use, were significant predictors of PUs, overshadowing the impact of psychological and environmental factors. Spending more time out of bed was identified as a protective behavior against PUs, suggesting that increased activity and participation in life can reduce the risk.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

1,050 persons with traumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Each additional prescription medication taken weekly increased the odds of having a PU by 24%.
2
Smoking one or more packs of cigarettes daily increased the odds of having a PU by 2.82 times compared to non-smokers.
3
Increased hours spent out of bed were protective against PUs (OR, 0.93).

Research Summary

The study assessed the relationship of psychological, environmental, and behavioral factors with pressure ulcers (PUs) in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Behavioral variables mediated the relationship of psychological and environmental factors with PUs. Use of substances, specifically cigarettes and prescription medications, resulted in increased odds of PUs. The study demonstrated the importance of health behaviors in the occurrence of PUs after SCI, suggesting these behaviors provide important targets for intervention for health care providers.

Practical Implications

Behavioral Interventions

Target modifiable behaviors like smoking and medication management to reduce PU risk.

Early Intervention

Address psychological and environmental factors early to prevent the development of risky behaviors.

Promote Activity

Encourage increased time out of bed to promote health and reduce PU risk.

Study Limitations

1
Self-reported data subject to recall bias.
2
Focus only on open PUs, excluding less severe cases.
3
Cross-sectional design limits causal inferences.

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