Pressure Injuries and the Hidden Role of Frailty in Hospitalized Older Adults

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between frailty and pressure injuries (PIs) in hospitalized older adults. METHODS: This retrospective study included 200 patients aged 65 years or older who were hospitalized in the Geriatrics Clinic between September 2023 and September 2024. Comprehensive geriatric assessment data and clinical outcomes were analyzed. Frailty was assessed using the Clinical Frailty Scale, and PIs were staged using the National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel classification. Logistic regression analysis was performed. RESULTS: Pressure injuries were present in 50% of patients. Patients with PIs were older, frailer, had poorer nutrition status, lower cognitive scores, reduced muscle strength, and worse physical performance compared with those without. Logistic regression revealed that frailty was independently associated with PIs (odds ratio=4.223; 95% CI: 2.687-6.337; P <.001). CONCLUSIONS: Frailty is strongly associated with the development of PIs in hospitalized older adults. Early frailty assessment may help guide prevention strategies.