Patterns of recurrent pressure ulcers after spinal cord injury: Identification of risk and protective factors 5 or more years after onset

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A mail survey was used to identify factors associated with the presence or absence of recurrent pressure ulcers among participants with spinal cord injury (SCI) who were at least 5 years postinjury. Of the 826 subjects who participated, 633 reported a history of pressure ulcers that could be classified into 1 of 5 options, ranging form never having any pressure ulcers to having almost continuous pressure ulcers. Those who never had them or had them for a short period after SCI onset were classified as nonrecurrent, whereas those who reported at least 1 per year were classified as recurrent. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the risk and protective behaviors associated with recurrent pressure ulcer history. Results indicted that several general behaviors, including lifestyle, exercise, and diet, were protective factors for recurrent pressure ulcers. None of the prevention behaviors generally recommended during inpatient rehabilitation were associated with pressure ulcer history. Only number of cigarettes smoke and use of medication for sleep were identified as high-risk behaviors.

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