Patient and public involvement in pressure ulcer research: a scoping review

This scoping review examined how patient and public involvement (PPI) is incorporated in pressure ulcer (PU) research. It identified the research stages where PPI occurs, the methods used to support it, the terminology applied, and its reported impact on research quality, practice, organisations, patients, and society. Nine electronic databases were searched from inception to March 2025. Studies with an objective to prevent or treat PUs, that actively involved people with lived experience of PUs as PPI contributors during the research lifecycle were included. Articles were independently screened and pre-defined data were extracted by two authors. Results were synthesised using the Patterns, Advances, Gaps, Evidence for practice and Research recommendations framework 1 . Two PPI contributors collaborated across each stage of this review. Twenty studies were included, with a median of 6.5 (1-48) PPI contributors, involved in a median of 2.5 (1-6) research stages. Participatory methods ranged from structured frameworks to flexible, adaptive engagement strategies (i.e., workshops/consultations). Impact of PPI was reported across 80% (n=16) of studies, predominately in the research quality domain. Limited use of the Guidance for Reporting of Patients and the Public (GRIPP2) 2 checklist was observed (5%, n=1). Multiple terms were used to describe PPI. While PPI in PU research is growing, reporting and integration vary widely. GRIPP2 checklists can enhance transparency. Studies should aim to involve contributors across multiple stages, targeting when/how PPI adds most value. A standardised terminology, agreed with PPI contributors, could enhance clarity and equity, reflecting their level of partnership and expertise. • Two Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) partners with lived experience of pressure ulcers (PUs) contributed to all stages of the review, shaping data synthesis, accessible reporting, and presentation of findings. • This scoping review of 20 studies maps how and when PPI is included and reported in PU research. • PPI is increasing but remains inconsistently described and integrated across the research cycle. • Using the Guidance for Reporting Involvement of Patients and the Public (GRIPP2) checklist, involving PPI contributors from project inception, and adopting shared terminology can enhance transparency, impact and equity in future PU research.