Across Ascension, we are transforming clinical research into real-world impact, advancing treatment and elevating our standard of care every day.
Ascension nurses and data scientists, led by Cynthia LaFond, PhD, RN, CCRN, FAAN, Ascension Senior Director, Nursing Research, recently published first-of-its-kind research on the connection between skin tone and pressure injuries (PI). Their published article will be featured in the November/December issue of Nursing Outlook.
This study specifically examined the relationship between patient skin tone and PI prevalence and severity. Evaluating skin tone assessments collected from an international sample of 55,658 patients, the researchers found that patients with medium-dark skin tones had a higher rate of PI and up to four times the risk of a more severe (higher-stage) injury than patients with light–medium skin tones.
This research underscores the need to bridge healthcare gaps by integrating diverse skin tones into research, education and practice. Insights from this study could help inform more personalized and effective treatment approaches. Ascension will continue using this data to shape policies and practice standards that enhance care for all patients.
Read more about the study here.
