The position therapy in elderly people at risk of developing pressure injuries

Abstract

Abstract: Pressure injuries (PI) are a major public health problem, as they significantly reduce the quality of life of elderly people. On the other hand, they increase costs and burdens in health services. Nursing interventions contribute to the development and implementation of preventive strategies to reduce all these negative impacts. Objective: To identify the contribution of position therapy to safe care in elderly people at risk of developing PI. Methodology: The methodology used was based on an Integrative Literature Review (ILR), which included the formulation of an initial research question, research in scientific databases, analysis and interpretation of selected articles, as well as the synthesis and presentation of the results obtained. For the selection of articles and formulation of the research question, the PI[C]OD methodology was used. Results: Once the methodology was applied, a final set comprising 7 studies was obtained, which suggest that there is scientific evidence that repositioning therapy, as well as automatic repositioning systems, contribute to the prevention of PI development. Conclusion: Based on the scientific evidence found in this research, the practice of position therapy prevents PI in the elderly and, consequently, promotes their comfort and quality of life. It also contributes to lower health care costs.