[The surveillance system of decubital lesions of the University Polyclinic in Udine: results of an incidence study]. / Il sistema di sorveglianza delle lesioni da decubito del Policlinico Universitario di Udine: risultati di uno studio di incidenza.

A retrospective study of the incidence of pressure sores was one of the principal component of the ad hoc program of surveillance, prevention and treatment of pressure sores started in 1996 at University Hospital of Udine. Data were collected from the nursing records of patients defined at risk according to the Waterlow scale and admitted during 1998-99. Aims of the study were to quantify the number of patients who developed a pressure sore while in hospital and their risk level; stage of the lesions; to qualify the main risk factors and the management strategies adopted (i.e. mattresses, medications). Overall, 151 subjects (20.7% of those recruited) developed a pressure sore the greatest majority (96%) were classified as transient and reactive redness or superficial sore, while 14 patients (4%) developed a severe sore. For 50.4% of the lesions a regression to a lower risk level or healing were documented.