Interventions, stakeholders, and organisation related to pressure ulcer prevention for individuals with spinal cord injuries in transition from hospital to home - A scoping review

STUDY DESIGN: Scoping review.

AIM OF THE STUDY: To obtain an overview of initiatives, organisational components, and stakeholders' perspectives on PU prevention in transitional care.

METHODS: Scoping review searching the databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE), CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and SCOPUS in May 2022. Inclusion of English-written research on pressure ulcer prevention in adult people with spinal cord injury in transition from hospital or rehabilitation centre to the home care environment.

RESULTS: Fifteen studies of different types are included in this study: six qualitative studies, four randomized controlled trials, three cohort studies, one cross-sectional study and an interventional study. The included studies are relatively low-level evidence but of acceptable quality.

CONCLUSION: Continuous tailored education and information about PU prevention and follow-up services are essential components in preventing PUs and rehabilitating people with SCI. The complexity of SCI requires adaptations, equipment and access to specialist care and treatment after discharge. However, there is a discrepancy between the international recommendations, the perceived needs, and the delivered healthcare services. The consequences are a lower quality of life and a higher risk of PUs for people with SCI.