1.Factors Associated With Pressure Ulcer Risk Among Spinal Cord Injury Adults in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: A Community-based Study
Yee Xing You ; Jing Yi Foo ; Wani Aqilah Mustafa ; Rohana Hussain ; Amaramalar Selvi Naicker ; Ohnmar Htwe ; Zahara Abdul Manaf ; Suzana Shahar
Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences 2021;17(No.3):177-184
Introduction: Pressure ulcers (PUs) are a leading health problem among spinal cord injury(SCI) patients. Therefore,
this comprehensive study was aimed at determining the association between potential factors and the occurrence
of PUs among SCI adults in community settings. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults
with SCI aged 18 years and above from five selected locations in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The study was carried
out through interviews based on validated questionnaires such as the Dietary History Questionnaire (DHQ), Spinal
Nutrition Screening Tool (SNST), Physical Activity Scale for Individuals with Physical Disabilities (PASIPD), Barthel
Index for Activities of Daily Living (ADL), and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). Estimated weight and
height were obtained using recumbent formula. The stages of their PUs were assessed based on National Pressure
Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP) grading system. Results: A total of 40 subjects participated in the study, 25% of
whom were having PUs. Their nutritional inadequacies were identified, whereby 90%, 70% and 85.5% of them
were receiving below their daily requirement of energy, carbohydrate and protein, respectively. The fat and sodium
intakes of 55% of them were above the Malaysian Recommended Nutrient Intakes(RNI). It was successfully found
that physical activity could decrease the risk of PUs(R2=0.654, OR=0.310, p<0.05). Conclusion: Overall, 25% of
the subjects had PUs that were associated with physical inactivity. The majority of the subjects did not meet their
nutrient requirements. Therefore, there is a need for increased physical activity and improved nutrient intake in order
to reduce the risk of pressure ulcers among SCI adults in communities.