Factors associated with pressure ulcer and dehydration in long-term care settings in Ontario, Canada

by Mary Crea-Arsenio, Andrea Baumann, Valentina Antonipillai, Noori Akhtar-Danesh Pressure ulcers and dehydration are common conditions among residents of long-term care facilities that result in negative health effects. They have been associated with signs of neglect and increased 30-day mortality among LTC residents. However, they are both preventable and with proper care can be effectively managed and treated. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to examine factors associated with pressure ulcers and dehydration among long-term care residents in the province of Ontario, Canada. Results indicated that close to one-fifth of residents were dehydrated (17.3%) or had a pressure ulcer (18.9%) during the study period. Advanced age was significantly associated with the presence of pressure ulcers and dehydration for both men and women. However, men were more likely to present with a pressure ulcer while women were more likely to exhibit symptoms of dehydration. Stud y findings also demonstrate the presence of both conditions being higher in municipal and not-for-profit homes compared to for-profit homes. The significant differences observed in relation to home ownership which require further investigation to identify the most relevant factors in explaining thes e differences. Overall, pressure ulcers and dehydration are preventable conditions that warrant attention from policymakers to ensure quality of care and resident safety are prioritized.
Source: PLoS One - Category: Biomedical Science Authors: Source Type: research