Risk Factors for Recurrent Pressure Ulcers: Insights from a Retrospective Study in Vietnam

Recurrent pressure ulcers (RPUs) are common among patients with limited mobility, leading to prolonged treatment and reduced quality of life. However, data on prognostic factors for RPUs remain limited, especially in Vietnam. Objective: This study aims to identify prognostic factors influencing RPUs among patients admitted to the Vietnam National Burn Hospital (VNBH) in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 583 patients diagnosed with pressure ulcers at VNBH from May 2019 to May 2024. Data were extracted from the VNBH electronic database, including demographic characteristics, comorbidities, wound severity, treatment history, and preventive measures. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to determine independent predictors of RPU.

The study sample included 463 men (79.4%) and 120 women (20.6%), with a mean age of 51.7 ± 35.9 years. A total of 108 (18.5%) patients experienced RPUs. Multivariate analysis identified age >31 years (OR=2.3), presence of comorbidities (OR=2.7), mobility impairment (OR=3.8), incontinence (OR=6.3), stage III ulcers (OR=4.2), stage IV ulcers (OR=6.7), absence of combined therapy (OR=3.2), and lack of rehabilitation (OR=3.0) as significant independent predictors of RPU (p<0.05).

RPUs are a significant healthcare challenge, particularly among older individuals with comorbidities, mobility impairments, and incontinence. Advanced ulcer stages and wound care that is not consistent with the current standard of care further increase the risk.