Objectives:

To identify risk factors for pressure ulcers in patients in the intensive care unit of Guayaquil Hospital.

Method:

Descriptive, retrospective and relational research with convenience sample of 100 patients admitted to ICU of Abel Gilbert Pontón Hospital during 2022. A 20-item data collection instrument and the Braden scale were used to assess risk.

Results:

70% were women, 69% over 65 years old. The main risk factors identified were: 99% with medical devices, 83% immobile, 89% with mechanical ventilation, 82% without postural changes, 80% without skin lubrication, 45% with inadequate nutrition, 80% with high risk according to Braden. 77% presented stage III ulcers, 38% located in the sacral area.

Conclusions:

The predominant risk factors were immobility, mechanical ventilation, absence of postural changes, lack of skin lubrication and inadequate nutrition.