What is the purpose of a pressure injury risk assessment at admission?

The primary purpose of a pressure injury risk assessment at admission is to evaluate the patient's risk for developing pressure injuries. This assessment is critical as it allows healthcare providers to identify patients who may be particularly vulnerable due to factors such as mobility limitations, skin integrity, nutritional status, or existing wounds. Early identification enables the implementation of appropriate prevention strategies, such as repositioning schedules, specialized mattresses, and skin care protocols, to reduce the risk of pressure injuries. Addressing this risk upfront is vital in managing patient care and improving outcomes, as pressure injuries can lead to significant morbidity, extended hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs.

While determining surgical eligibility, identifying discharge complications, and assessing mental health status are important aspects of patient care, they do not directly relate to the prevention of pressure injuries, which is the focal point of the assessment at the time of admission.