Number of reported bedsores in Nova Scotia hospitals soar

Nova Scotia Hospitals Report Rise in Serious Bedsores, Despite Explanation

The number of serious bedsores reported in Nova Scotia hospitals has increased, sparking concern among patient safety advocates. The province attributes the rise to a change in how they categorize and report these incidents, but critics argue that any increase is unacceptable.

According to the Health Department, the number of stage 3 and 4 bedsores identified in the most recent quarter tripled compared to the average over the past two years. While the average number was 21, there were 70 cases reported from October to December 2024. Rochelle Currie, Nova Scotia Health’s senior director of quality improvement, acknowledged the concerning statistics but emphasized the organization’s commitment to improvement.

A one-day blitz conducted by the province in October aims to identify stage 3 and 4 bedsores, which are the most severe and can lead to life-threatening complications. Last year’s event coincided with a policy change in reporting, introducing a new category called “unstageable.” Currie explained that many unstageable wounds are actually stage 3 or 4 that are in the process of healing, making accurate categorization challenging.

The quarterly reports on serious reportable events, available on the Health Department’s website, highlight the prevalence of pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores. Despite efforts to address the issue, bedsores have persisted as a longstanding problem in Nova Scotia hospitals.

Patient safety advocate Katharina Kovacs Burns expressed her dismay over the rising numbers of hospital-acquired bedsores, emphasizing that they are preventable incidents. She called for increased vigilance in risk assessment and patient care to avoid the progression of bedsores to advanced stages.

While the root causes of the increase two years ago remain unclear, Nova Scotia Health is now focusing on implementing best practices across the province to address the issue. Pressure injury prevention has been identified as a top priority for the organization, reflecting their dedication to improving patient outcomes.

Despite the challenges posed by aging and frail patient populations in Nova Scotia hospitals, efforts to prevent and treat bedsores must be intensified. Family involvement in patient care, such as regular checks and repositioning, can complement the efforts of healthcare staff in preventing the development of debilitating bedsores.

In conclusion, while the recent rise in serious bedsores in Nova Scotia hospitals may be attributed to reporting changes, the underlying issue remains a critical concern for patient safety advocates. By prioritizing prevention strategies and fostering a collaborative approach to care, hospitals can work towards reducing the incidence of bedsores and improving overall patient outcomes.