An Exploration of Pressure Injury in a Diverse Defined Local Community

Purpose:

The purpose of this study is to explore the characteristics of pressure injury within a defined, diverse community using a case study approach

Specific objectives are: 

1. To explore the in-depth views of patients' experience of living with a pressure injury
2. A review of existing data to identify the prevalence and characteristics to pressure injury in the defined community.
3. To examine if there is any relationship between pressure injury and patient characteristics.

 Methods:

To address the study objectives, a case study design will be used. The case boundary is defined as the postcode OX4 within Oxfordshire as this area has a mixed demographic or culture, age and socio-economic profile, and the cases within are patients who have been treated for a pressure injury within this case boundary.  

The methods to be used within the case study methodology include:

Phase 1: Interviewing: where patients will be invited to participate in a semi structure interview conducted in a place of their choice.  The interview will focus on their experience of living with a pressure injury, how this has impacted on their quality of life and how the injury was managed by themselves and by health professionals.  An interview schedule will be developed to ensure consistency of interviewing.

Phase 2: Collection of audit data:  Data will be accessed to identify the prevalence and characteristics of pressure injury in the case boundary. This will include demographic data, health co-morbidities and management of the injury.  The calendar year 2015 will be used to ensure seasonal variation is minimalized and the current management of the injury.

Results:

It is anticipated that the characteristics of pressure injury can be identified.

Following analysis of interview transcripts,  patients' experience of living with a pressure injury will be documented

Identify the prevalence and characteristics to pressure injury in the defined community.

Report if there is any relationship between pressure injury and patient characteristics.

Conclusion:

We anticipate we will identify patients' concerns and needs, and include these in our recommendations