Clinical Assessment of Medical Device–Related Pressure Injury Risk: Profiling Risk Levels in Patients Using Medical Devices

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk of pressure injury development among patients exposed to medical devices and to examine the clinical outcomes obtained using the Medical Device-Related Pressure Injury Risk Assessment Scale. The scale provides a structured approach for the early identification of pressure injuries associated with medical device application.

Methods: This descriptive and analytical study was conducted with 132 patients receiving medical device applications in a tertiary training and research hospital. Data were collected using a Personal Information Form and the Medical Device-Related Pressure Injury Risk Assessment Scale. Total scores range from 8 to 27, representing high-risk (8–12), moderate-risk (13–20), and low-risk (21–27) categories. Statistical analyses conducted in SPSS 26.0 included descriptive statistics, independent and paired t-tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression analyses. Normality was assessed using Skewness–Kurtosis values, and Wilcoxon and Dunnett’s C tests were applied when parametric assumptions were not met. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

Results: Among patients who developed a medical device-related pressure injury, 54.6% were admitted to intensive care units. Overall, 35.8% of participants were classified as high-risk, 40.0% as moderate-risk, and 24.2% as low-risk. Device contact duration, device-related skin pressure, and anatomical application site significantly affected risk scores (p<0.01). Additionally, the patient’s general clinical condition was identified as a strong determinant of risk level.

Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that risk levels are greatly influenced by patient-related factors and device-specific characteristics. The scale proved effective in guiding early detection, systematic monitoring, and preventive nursing interventions. This study highlights the importance of integrating structured MDRPI risk assessment into routine clinical practice to enhance patient safety and improve care outcomes.