Nurses' perspectives and experiences about pressure injuries caused by medical devices

Abstract

Background: Medical device-related pressure injuries (MDRPI) are a significant health issue in healthcare settings, with medical devices often contributing to the development of pressure injuries. Despite advancements in technology and the availability of preventative products, the prevention of MDRPI remains a challenge. Nurses play a crucial role in managing and preventing these injuries, yet there is limited research exploring their perceptions and experiences regarding MDRPI. This study aims to explore nurses' perceptions, experiences, and the challenges they face in preventing MDRPI.
Methods: This study design was employed. Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 30 nurses from various clinical departments in a large acute care hospital. Participants were selected using purposive sampling and data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes related to their experiences and perceptions of MDRPI prevention.
Results: The study identified several key themes: 1) Preventable Yet Unavoidable, with nurses recognizing that MDRPIs are largely preventable through regular assessments and monitoring, though underlying patient conditions can complicate prevention efforts; 2) Shared Responsibility, where nurses highlighted their primary role in prevention while emphasizing the importance of teamwork across all healthcare staff; and 3) Aligning Theory with Practical Reality, where nurses expressed a gap between their theoretical knowledge and the practical challenges encountered, leading to feelings of frustration when MDRPIs occurred despite their efforts.
Conclusion: Nurses play a pivotal role in the prevention and management of MDRPIs, but challenges such as patient-related factors and inadequate teamwork can hinder effective prevention. Improved education, regular training, and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential for enhancing MDRPI prevention efforts. The study underscores the need for a holistic approach that includes both practical and theoretical education to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice, ultimately improving patient outcomes.