Open AccessThe repositioning of hospitalized patients with reduced mobility: a prospective study
Author(s) -
Latimer Sharon,
Chaboyer Wendy,
Gillespie Brigid M.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
nursing open
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.55
H-Index - 12
ISSN - 2054-1058
DOI - 10.1002/nop2.20
Subject(s) - evening , observational study , medicine , audit , prospective cohort study , body position , physical therapy , physical medicine and rehabilitation , surgery , physics , management , astronomy , economics
Aim To determine the frequency of patient repositioning across three consecutive nursing shifts (day, evening and night) and to identify predictors of repositioning frequency. Background Patient repositioning is a frequently implemented pressure injury prevention strategy. Yet, little is known about how often it should be implemented, or the frequency of movement among hospitalized patients with reduced mobility. Design An observational prospective study. Methods Chart audits were used to gather clinical and demographic data. Semi‐structured observations were conducted every 30 minutes for a continuous 24‐hour period. Observational data included the patient's body position, the frequency of repositioning, assistance require to reposition and the use of support surfaces. Results Patients were repositioned frequently during the day and evening and least at night time. Elevation of the head of the bed (1–45°) was the most frequently adopted position. The independent predictors of repositioning frequency were age and gender, with older patients and males repositioned less frequently.