Skin injury prevalence and incidence in China: a multicentre investigation

Objective: To quantify the prevalence and incidence of different skin injuries, pressure ulcers (PU), skin tears (ST) and incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) in China, and to identify their causes to aid prevention and control. Method: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted across nine tertiary hospitals. Registered nurses were trained on a standard approach to injury assessment and examination. The study was carried out at the same time on the same day across the participating centres. Participating patients were examined for PU, ST or IAD. Results: A total of 13,176 inpatients were assessed and 233 PU were identified, of which 126 occurred in hospitals, 99 cases at home and eight cases within community hospitals. In addition, there were 141 skin tears and 97 IADs. Conclusion: This study involved the largest number of hospitals, to date (in China). Therefore, the prevalence and rate of incidence of skin injury obtained in this study may represent a regional baseline in China.