Nurses’ Knowledge Levels Regarding Medical Device-Related Pressure Injury Risk Factors: A Descriptive Study

Background: Medical device-related pressure injuries (MDRPIs) represent a growing challenge in modern healthcare settings, contributing to preventable patient harm and increased healthcare costs. Nurses are essential in identifying MDRPI risk factors and implementing early preventive strategies. Therefore, assessing nurses’ knowledge in this domain is critical to improving patient safety and care quality.

Aim: This study aimed to determine nurses’ knowledge levels regarding the risk factors associated with the development of medical device-related pressure injuries.

Methods: A descriptive study was conducted with nurses working in palliative care, intensive care, internal medicine, and surgical clinics of Erzincan Mengücek Gazi Training and Research Hospital between 30 October and 31 December 2024. The sample size was determined as 284 nurses based on power analysis. Data were collected using a structured data collection form developed by the researchers in accordance with the NPUAP/EPUAP 2014 guidelines. The form included items on demographic characteristics, professional background, and 15 questions measuring knowledge of MDRPI risk factors. Data were gathered through face-to-face interviews after obtaining informed consent. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 27.0. Descriptive statistics, independent and paired t-tests, ANOVA, correlation analyses, regression modeling, and non-parametric tests (Wilcoxon and Dunnett’s C) were used when appropriate. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: Preliminary results indicate that nurses’ knowledge levels regarding MDRPI risk factors are moderate. Knowledge scores significantly varied based on clinical unit, years of professional experience, previous training on pressure injuries, and frequency of medical device use (p < 0.05). Regression analysis showed that prior education on MDRPI prevention was the strongest predictor of higher knowledge levels.

Conclusion: These findings highlight the urgent need to strengthen education and training programs related to medical device-related pressure injury prevention. Enhancing nurses’ knowledge and competency in MDRPI risk assessment may contribute to reducing preventable harm and improving patient safety outcomes in clinical settings.