Objective: To know the knowledge and practices of nurses on prevention of pressure injury. Method: A qualitative, descriptive, exploratory study with seven nurses from a public hospital in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. A semi-structured interview was used, in which the testimonies were recorded, transcribed in their entirety and analyzed using the content analysis technique proposed by Bardin. Results: The change of decubitus was the most cited preventive method. Professionals are knowledgeable about good prevention practices, which are influenced by structural issues (human resources and insufficient inputs) and, because of this difficulty, caregivers are important in helping this care. Conclusion: Nursing professionals are knowledgeable about proven ways to reduce pressure injury rates, however, there is a continuing need to emphasize evidence-based good practice as an effective means of improving nursing care.