Pressure injuries (PIs) are localized injuries to the skin and underlying tissue, typically over bony prominences, resulting from prolonged pressure or pressure combined with shear. They pose significant challenges in chronic care, particularly among elderly patients with reduced mobility, leading to substantial socioeconomic impact and negatively impacting the psychological well-being of patients. Malnutrition is a key risk factor in the development and delayed healing of PIs, as it impairs immune function, decreases muscle strength, and reduces tissue tolerance to pressure. Appropriate nutritional interventions are therefore crucial in both the prevention and management of PIs. 

A systematic review published in Geriatrics aimed to identify the best scientific evidence on nutritional interventions implemented by nurses in community settings to prevent complications related to PIs. The review also analyzed qualitative and quantitative outcomes reported in the included studies.¹  

The systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Comprehensive searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and CINAHL databases using a predefined search strategy with Boolean operators. Two researchers independently selected relevant papers, with a third researcher resolving any discrepancies. Additional sources and manual reviews were conducted to minimize selection bias.¹ 

What the Review Revealed

Out of 1,003 records initially identified, 6 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The findings from these studies indicate that nurses play a fundamental role in managing PIs in community settings through specific nutritional intervention assistance processes.1 These healthcare professionals are pivotal in the prevention, care, and rehabilitation of vulnerable individuals with PIs. 

Adequate nutritional support plays a key role in both preventing the development of PIs and promoting the healing process in existing injuries. Nutritional interventions, such as protein supplementation, have been shown to improve wound healing outcomes.1 Despite the recognized importance of nutrition in PI management, these interventions are often underestimated in clinical practice. Barriers include limited resources, lack of training, and insufficient interdisciplinary collaboration.1 

The authors contended that nurses are strategically positioned to assess the nutritional status of patients, develop and implement individualized care plans, and monitor the effectiveness of nutritional interventions.1 Their close contact with patients allows for timely identification of nutritional deficiencies and the implementation of appropriate interventions.

Final Thoughts

Nurses are strategic in the management of PIs within community care for frail or otherwise at-risk populations. Nutritional support plays a key role in both preventing and accelerating the healing of PIs. This review’s authors encourage policymakers to invest in nursing roles to enhance assistance in community contexts, supporting healthy aging and lifestyle approaches. 

Implications for practiceoutlined in the review could include providing nurses with specialized training in nutritional assessment and intervention; encouraging collaboration among healthcare professionals, including dietitians, physicians, and nurses; and developing policies that recognize and support the critical role of nurses in nutritional interventions, which can lead to better resource allocation and improved patient care.¹

In conclusion, the systematic review posits that, by addressing nutritional needs, nurses can significantly contribute to the prevention of PIs and the enhancement of healing processes, thereby improving the quality of life for elderly patients and reducing healthcare costs associated with PI management.¹

Reference

1. Cangelosi G, Sacchini F, Biondini F, et al. Nutritional Support in the Prevention and Treatment of Pressure Ulcers in Healthy Aging: A Systematic Review of Nursing Interventions in Community Care. Geriatrics. 2025; 10(1):17. https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics10010017