Knowledge of Nurses on Pressure Ulcer Staging, Prevention, and Wound Characteristics at Quirino Memorial Medical Center

Abstract

Pressure ulcers remain a significant patient safety concern globally, contributing to morbidity, extended hospitalization, and increased healthcare costs. Nurses play a critical role in preventing, assessing, and managing pressure ulcers; however, knowledge gaps persist, particularly in staging, prevention strategies, and wound assessment. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge levels of nurses at Quirino Memorial Medical Center (QMMC) regarding pressure ulcer staging, prevention, and wound characteristics. A descriptive quantitative research design was employed, involving 283 registered nurses selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using the validated 47-item Pieper Pressure Ulcer Knowledge Test (PPURKT), covering three domains: staging (9 items), prevention strategies (30 items), and wound characteristics (8 items). Descriptive statistics, including mean percentage scores and competency classifications, were calculated to assess knowledge levels. Results revealed that nurses demonstrated moderate knowledge in prevention strategies (73.54%) and pressure ulcer staging (73.31%), indicating a solid understanding of fundamental prevention measures and ulcer classification. Conversely, knowledge in wound characteristics was low (53.93%), highlighting difficulties in identifying tissue types, interpreting exudate, and understanding advanced wound assessment techniques. Item-level analysis further identified misconceptions related to heel protectors, donut/ring cushions, massaging bony prominences, and eschar interpretation. Strengths were observed in risk assessment, Braden Scale documentation, and recognition of advanced-stage pressure ulcers. These findings underscore the necessity for targeted educational interventions, competency-based training, and regular knowledge assessments to bridge identified gaps. Strengthening nurses’ knowledge in wound characteristics and advanced prevention strategies can enhance patient outcomes, reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers, and improve adherence to evidence-based protocols in clinical settings. Future research should explore the correlation between knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices, as well as institutional factors influencing the consistent implementation of preventive measures.