Characteristics of patients who are admitted with or acquire Pressure Ulcers in a District General Hospital; a 3 year retrospective analysis

Aim The study aimed to characterize demographic and clinical practice factors associated with community ( CAPU ) and hospital acquired pressure ulcers ( HAPU ). Design A comparative retrospective evaluation of pressure ulcer data, collected from a district general hospital. Methods Demographic and pressure ulcer related data were collected from patients at risk of developing a pressure ulcer, collated by a single observer using a standardized tool. Comparisons were made within and between patient groups (no PU , CAPU and HAPU ). Results CAPU and HAPU patient groups were significantly ( P  <   0·001) older, had extended lengths of hospital stay and were less likely to be provided quickly with a pressure relieving support surface than those with no PU . HAPU patients had a longer length of stay and a higher proportion of heel PU s compared to CAPU .