These resources are aimed to support the prevention of pressure ulcers/injuries (PU/PI) in the acute phase following spinal cord injury (SCI).
Prevention should begin immediately after injury and be maintained throughout hospitalisation. Early and consistent preventive measures are essential, as PU/PI in the acute phase can delay rehabilitation and increase the risk of recurrence.

These materials focus on early risk identification and timely implementation of preventive strategies across the acute setting.

These resources are part of the Pressure Injury Recurrence Toolkit – an evidence-based toolkit developed to support healthcare professionals, patients and informal caregivers in preventing recurrence of pressure injuries in individuals with spinal cord injury. The project is developed in collaboration with Wounds Australia.

For healthcare professionals:

Skin assessment and skin care:

• Quick guide for clinicians for pressure ulcer management

Pressure relief and repositioning:

• Clinical pathway for transition from hospital to home

Education:

• Factsheet on prevalence and incidence of PI in patients
• Clinical pathway for transition from hospital to home

Sitting, Surfaces and medical devices:

• Guideline on seating and devices relating to SCI populations

Nutrition and Hydration:

• Fact sheet 2 Injury and food intake autonomy
• Fact sheet 8 Dysphagia risk factors & alert signs

For patients and caregivers:

• Fact sheet 9 Dysphagia alert signs