title: [The role of nursing documentation in the analysis of the risk of pressure ulcers].
abstract: The aim of the study was to analyze the risk of pressure ulcers in Dubrovnik General Hospital based on data from nursing documentation and records on the number of nurses on duty. Specifically, the intent was to show the importance of analyzing serum proteins in patients with a documented risk (Braden's scale) of pressure ulcers and to assess the incidence of pressure ulcers recorded during holidays/weekends when the number of nurses on duty is, generally, lower. The study included patients admitted to the hospital during the year 2012. Nursing documentation was the source of patient data. The risk of pressure ulcers was assessed in 34% of patients. Pressure ulcers were recorded in 185 patients, initially estimated as very high risk (32.3%), high risk (40%), moderate risk (7%) and no risk (20.7%). Analysis of total serum protein showed a significantly lower value in patients with ulcers in comparison with patients without pressure ulcer. During a one-month period (December 2012), the number of recorded pressure ulcers was analyzed at Department of Neurology according to weekends/holidays and other weekdays. Results showed the weekends/holidays to be more risky for the development of pressure ulcers (72% vs. 28%). At the same time, given the regulations on minimum requirements, about 33% of nurses are missing every day. However, over the weekend, this disadvantage can hardly compensate for the often demanding emergency admission patients. Therefore, our results suggest a possible reallocation of working hours for nurses respecting week routine and the need for the weekend. Continuous monitoring, documentation and evaluation of nursing work through documentation have created a prerequisite for professional communication that leads to good results and recognition of the profession. Good health care organization can significantly influence the overall treatment, which has professional and financial effects on the health care in general.
authors: Vedrana
authors: V
authors: Iveta
authors: Antonija
authors: A
authors: Krecak
authors: Marija
authors: M
authors: Kalogjera
authors: Dorde
authors: D
authors: Milić
mesh_terms: D004282:Documentation; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D009737:Nursing Records; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D018570:Risk Assessment