Pressure ulcer practice in European hospitals: a scoping review

More than 60 organizational, structural, and process characteristics were identified as potentially influencing pressure ulcer practice in European hospitals. Individual knowledge and attitudes and the availability of standards/protocols were most often investigated indicating a perceived priority in shaping pressure ulcer practice. Since all studies indicate knowledge deficits and a lack of implementation of basic prophylactic measures, there seems to be high potential to improve pressure ulcer prevention and enhance patient safety.