The high incidence of pressure ulcer development in patients in the perioperative
setting indicates the need for improved risk assessment and the use of preventive
measures. A clinical nurse specialist used Dever’s Epidemiological Model as the
theoretical framework to develop a perioperative pressure ulcer risk-assessment
scale. The risk factors for the scale were based on findings from a review of the
literature. The scale, along with a demographic questionnaire and an evaluation
form, was
distributed to 12 nurses and
three anesthesiologists to obtain expert opinion
to further the design of the scale. Twelve participants returned the forms. Only four
of the participants had previous experience with a pressure ulcer risk-assessment
scale. The results indicated that diabetes should be included as a risk factor category
and that preexisting skin ulcerations, breakdowns, and conditions should be ad-
dressed within the scale. The participants unanimously agreed that moisture is an
important factor to assess. Validation of each risk factor is essential to improve the
reliability of the scale before its implementation.