Association Between Malnutrition and Pressure Ulcer Among Critically Ill Adult Patients in The Intensive Care Unit : literature review

Abstract

Malnutrition is a common problem among critically ill patients, with studies reporting a prevalence of up to 50%. Malnutrition can result from inadequate nutrient intake, impaired absorption or metabolism, or increased nutrient losses due to illness or treatment. Pressure ulcers are common in ICU patients and can lead to substantial health and financial burdens. They are associated with increased morbidity, mortality, extended hospital stays, and high healthcare costs. Prevention of pressure ulcers is a fundamental aspect of intensive care nursing and is considered the most cost-effective and intuitive approach to addressing this potentially serious problem.

The methodology used was a literature review. The literature review aimed to evaluate the nutritional status of critically ill patients and how it promotes or increases the occurrence of pressure ulcers, determine the main cause of pressure ulcer occurrence, and define the relationship between nutritional status and pressure ulcers.

The results revealed a significant association between malnutrition and the development of pressure ulcers. Various factors contribute to malnutrition, including insufficient nutrient intake, elevated nutrient needs, and metabolism changes, leading to a vicious cycle of negative outcomes.

This study explored elements like awareness, management, and control, with implications for enhancing nursing care for at-risk critically ill patients.

Malnutrition is a common problem among critically ill patients, with studies reporting a prevalence of up to 50%. Malnutrition can result from inadequate nutrient intake, impaired absorption or metabolism, or increased nutrient losses due to illness or treatment. Pressure ulcers are common in ICU patients and can lead to substantial health and financial burdens. They are associated with increased morbidity, mortality, extended hospital stays, and high healthcare costs. Prevention of pressure ulcers is a fundamental aspect of intensive care nursing and is considered the most cost-effective and intuitive approach to addressing this potentially serious problem.

The methodology used was a literature review. The literature review aimed to evaluate the nutritional status of critically ill patients and how it promotes or increases the occurrence of pressure ulcers, determine the main cause of pressure ulcer occurrence, and define the relationship between nutritional status and pressure ulcers.

The results revealed a significant association between malnutrition and the development of pressure ulcers. Various factors contribute to malnutrition, including insufficient nutrient intake, elevated nutrient needs, and metabolism changes, leading to a vicious cycle of negative outcomes.

This study explored elements like awareness, management, and control, with implications for enhancing nursing care for at-risk critically ill patients.