NURSING STRATEGIES FOR RISK ASSESSMENT AND PREVENTION OF PRESSURE INURIES IN THE SURGICAL SETTING: AN INEGRSTIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Pressure injury resulting from surgical positioning is considered an adverse event that compromises patient safety and the quality of healthcare. In this context, nursing plays an essential role in prevention through risk assessment and the implementation of protective measures. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze, through an integrative literature review, the nursing strategies used in risk assessment and prevention of pressure injuries in patients in the surgical context. This was an integrative literature review conducted between January and February 2026, through online access to publications indexed in the Virtual Health Library (VHL) and the CAPES Journal Portal. After applying eligibility criteria, 13 studies comprised the final sample, which were grouped into thematic areas and subsequently compared with the literature. The analysis showed that the main risk factors include prolonged surgical time, advanced age, comorbidities, changes in body mass index, type of anesthesia, and positioning. Effective strategies highlighted were the use of predictive scales, especially ELPO and the Munro Scale, the implementation of positioning protocols, the use of support surfaces, and continuous training of the nursing team. It is concluded, therefore, that understanding the main factors associated with the development of pressure injuries in surgical patients is essential to improve care, reduce complications, and promote safe and humanized practice.