Pressure Ulcer Prevention with Topical Oils: Scoping Review

Abstract

Pressure ulcers (PUs) are a common problem among patients with limited mobility. Topical oils have been used as preventive intervention due to their ability to maintain skin moisture and reduce friction. However, scientific evidence related to this practice remains scattered and has not yet been systematically mapped. This review aimed to explore and map the types of oils, application methods, and contexts of use for PU prevention. A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines using the PCC framework (Population: patients at risk of PUs; Concept: topical oil application; Context: healthcare settings). Literature searches were conducted through PubMed, Wiley, and Garuda from 2015 to 2025. 11 articles met the inclusion criteria. Identified oils type included sweet almond oil, peppermint oil gel, virgin coconut oil, Nigella sativa oil, olive oil, and hyperoxygenated fatty acids. The interventions involved standard care with oil application (directly or combined with massage), from one to three times daily over four to forty days. Target areas included the dorsal, sacral, and calcaneal regions, in ICU, inpatient wards, and nursing homes. This scoping review successfully mapped the use of topical oils for PU prevention and offers evidence to support future clinical nursing practice