A "Pressure Injury Prevention and Awareness Exhibition" was held at Istinye University’s Topkapı Campus on November 21st, in observance of World Pressure Injury Prevention Day, to raise awareness. The exhibition, opened by Dr. Lecturer Yemliha YILDIZ, Director of the Health Services Vocational School, featured posters prepared by students from the Operating Room Services Program. In his opening speech, Yıldız thanked Lecturer Nurten TOSUN, who led the preparation of the exhibition, as well as all the students who contributed. The awareness exhibition, which emphasized the importance of quality and qualified care in healthcare services, was an effective step in raising public awareness and health literacy.
Students conducted interactive presentations for visitors, discussing the significance of pressure injuries, risk factors, and simple prevention methods, accompanied by the posters. The markings made by the students on their own bodies to highlight pressure points were met with great interest.
Tissue damage caused by pressure injuries increases the risk of infection in patients.
Lecturer Nurten Tosun from the Health Services Vocational School informed participants about pressure injuries. She stated, “Pressure ulcers (bedsores or decubitus ulcers) are seen in individuals who are bed-bound, use wheelchairs, or are immobile for prolonged periods due to surgery or chronic illnesses. These are localized tissue injuries caused by prolonged pressure on soft tissue over bony prominences. Pressure hinders blood flow, making it difficult for the skin to receive oxygen and nutrition, leading to tissue damage and injury. The injury can appear as intact skin or an open ulcer and may be painful. These injuries, which can vary in depth and size, are a serious health problem that increases morbidity and mortality rates and leads to issues such as infection, pain, and depression, as well as prolonged hospital stays and additional treatment and care costs.”
Qualified patient care is crucial in preventing pressure injuries.
The risk of infection associated with pressure injuries presents a significant health threat, as open wounds allow access for microbes, bacteria, and other pathogens. If left untreated, these wounds can deepen, reach blood and bone tissue, and even lead to life-threatening conditions such as sepsis. To prevent and treat pressure injuries, it is important to change the patient's position every 2 hours, perform active and passive movements, use pressure-distributing beds and support surfaces, and support high-risk areas (pressure points over bony prominences). Additionally, skin care, hygiene, and nutrition factors support the healing process.
The awareness exhibition, emphasizing the importance of quality and qualified care in healthcare services, was supported by interdisciplinary participation, laying the foundation for scientific and professional collaborations. Istinye University continues to raise public health awareness by supporting events that highlight important health issues.
