Association between presence of pneumonia and pressure ulcer formation following traumatic spinal cord injury
Model System:
SCIReference Type:
JournalAccession No.:
J77092Journal:
Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine - JSCM (formerly Journal of the American Paraplegia Society)
Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):
, 40, 4, 415-422Publication Website:
Abstract:
Study investigated the relationship between the presence of pneumonia and pressure ulcers in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) during acute care and rehabilitation hospitalizations. Data were obtained from the SCI Model Systems program for patients enrolled from 1993 to 2006. A cohort of 3,098 individuals hospitalized in acute care and 1,768 in inpatient rehabilitation facilities was included in the analysis. Frequencies of pressure ulcer formation and episodes of pneumonia were noted in both settings. Results showed the development of pressure ulcers was 20.3 percent during acute care and 21.1 percent during in inpatient rehabilitation. Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed a significant association of pneumonia with occurrence of pressure ulcers, the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale grades, and utilization of mechanical ventilation in both settings. The study found a higher presence of pressure ulcers in individuals with pneumonia, after adjusting for injury severity, age, sex, and utilization of mechanical ventilation. Impaired inflammatory response and decreased mobility in individuals with pneumonia may predispose these individuals to develop pressure ulcers. Surveillance and preventive measures for pressure ulcers should be rigorous in individuals with SCI and pneumonia.