Pressure Ulcer Prevention Attitudes and Beliefs among Home Health Aides

PURPOSE An estimated 30% of entrants to homebound care are at risk for pressure ulcers. Home Healthcare Aides (HHA) represent a primary line of defense for preventing pressure ulcers in the home care environment. However, little is known about HHA practices related to pressure ulcer prevention or about the attitudes and beliefs that may in part determine whether such care is provided. A research study examining HHA attitudes, beliefs, and intentions was conducted.

METHOD The research was guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior. Individuals working in home healthcare were interviewed (n=20) to identify beliefs and attitudes related to pressure ulcer prevention behaviors. The information acquired was used to create a survey of attitudes, beliefs, and intentions. The survey was completed by a representative sample of HHA (n=80). Univariate, correlational, and regression analyses were conducted.

RESULTS HHA report strong intentions to monitor for and take steps to prevent pressure ulcers. Several behavioral beliefs are implicated in whether such steps are taken, including perceived liability and reduction of long term consequences. Perceived barriers and facilitators vary; however, privacy and family resistance appear to play a significant role. Although HHA attitudes indicate that patient well being is a primary concern, HHA tend to discount patients as a normative influence, responding instead to supervisors.

Descriptive statistics, regression models, and the results of factor analyses will be presented. Implications for further research, practice, and both educational and performance support efforts will be drawn.

Supported in part by Grant # R43AR05031 from NIAMS/NIH.