Abstract
Background:
Pressure ulcers remain a major healthcare challenge, especially among bedridden patients in critical care settings. They increase morbidity, length of hospital stay, and healthcare costs. Two-hourly repositioning is one of the most cost-effective and evidence-based nursing interventions for preventing pressure ulcers, yet compliance remains inconsistent in many hospitals.
Aim:
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two-hourly repositioning on the prevalence of pressure ulcers among hospitalized patients in a tertiary care hospital in Lahore.
Methods:
A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the intensive, high-dependency, and coronary care units of Jinnah Hospital, Lahore. A total of 175 bedridden patients were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, including demographic profiles, the Braden Scale, a pressure ulcer assessment checklist, and a repositioning adherence form. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27, applying descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results:
The prevalence of pressure ulcers was 32%, with the sacrum and heels being the most affected areas. Most ulcers were in early stages (Stage I and II). Patients repositioned every two hours had significantly fewer ulcers than those repositioned less frequently (p < 0.001). Staffing shortages, lack of standard protocols, and poor documentation were identified as major barriers to compliance.
Conclusion:
Two-hourly repositioning effectively reduced pressure ulcer prevalence and improved patient comfort. Strengthening preventive protocols, staff training, and monitoring practices is essential for sustainable pressure ulcer prevention