Key Message

The costs of PUs to the patient, their careers and the health care system are significant.

• In 1997 it was estimated the cost of PUs to Australian health care at $350 million.
• In 1991 it was estimated that 60,000 people a year acquire a PU in Australian health care organisations.
• A study of patients with spinal injuries showed that their quality of life deteriorated considerably once they had developed a PU.
• Victoria patients with PUs remain in hospital for 50% longer than patients without PUs.
• Claims of medical negligence against individuals or organisations who have failed to prevent the development of PUs do occur in Australia and have resulted in compensation.

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Remember, of all the surveyed patients that had a PU, almost half of them had more than one!

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