The Importance of Pressure Injury Prevention

November 18, 2021

World Wide Pressure Injury Prevention Day raises awareness and education about the importance of pressure injury prevention.

The Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality estimates that more than 2.5 million individuals in the U.S. develop pressure injuries annually, and medical management of pressure injuries costs the U.S. health care system $9.1 to $11.6 billion per annum. Even more significantly, 60,000 people die yearly from pressure injury complications. 

Objectives for World Wide Pressure Injury Prevention Day include:

• To promote worldwide awareness for pressure injury prevention
• To create interest in and education about pressure injury prevention
• To reinforce the relationship between national and local organizations

The National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel has developed an extensive media materials package appropriate for all health care settings and organizations which are available on their website, including a brochure to educate patients and caregivers about pressure injury prevention.

HAP has been working with Pennsylvania hospitals to decrease the incidence of hospital-acquired pressure injuries. Through the use of evidence-based protocols, targeted education, and the development of individual action plans for rapid improvement, hospitals have the advantage of this time-tested collaborative program.

For more information about pressure injury prevention in your organization, contact HAP’s project manager, Janette Bisbee.