Prevalence and Predictors of Skin Tears Among Inpatients

Purpose: The purposes of this study were to investigate prevalence, wound characteristics, and predictors of skin tears risk factors among inpatients. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey design with convenience sampling was used. All hospitalized patients in a medical center were surveyed for this study. 724 participants were enrolled. Data were collected by using structured questionnaires that included demographics, skin tears risk factors assessment components, and skin tears status assessment tools. Two 1-day surveys were conducted (August 31st and September 30th, 2008). Five registered nurses collected data, inspected the patients' skin for skin tears, and classified them according to the Payne-Martin Classification System. Statistics: Means, standard deviations, and percentages were used for descriptive purposes. Chi-square test and independent t test were used for dichotomous variables and continuous variables, respectively. Logistic regression was used to determine variables associated with skin tears. Results: The results showed the prevalence of skin tears to be 11.05%. Majority of skin tears (31.88%) occurred on the face, head, and neck. 73.91% of skin tears were related to tape and wound dressing removals. Most (65.95%) of the skin tears involved the entire loss of tissue. The mean number of days needed for wound healing was 10.29 (SD=4.54). According to logistic regression, important clinical predictors of skin tears were pre-existing skin abnormalities, mobility level, dementia, liver disease, pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Important medication-related predictors of skin tears were diuretics, corticosteroids, cardiovascular medications, and sedative agents. Conclusion: The findings provide an outline of skin tears related risk factors that can be used in developing preventive strategies for skin tears. They can be also be used as references for skin tears care curriculum in continuing nursing education.