Pressure ulcer research: pressure ulcer treatment. A monograph from the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel.

The AHCPR guideline on Treatment of Pressure Ulcers was released in December 1994. This guideline was based on the best available scientific evidence published between 1966 and May 1, 1993. Over 45,000 abstracts were reviewed in the literature analysis. Yet only 63.2% of the guideline recommendations were based on research of any type, and only 4.5% of the recommendations were supported by two or more randomized clinical trials. A more recent literature review (covering articles on pressure ulcers listed in the MEDLINE database between May 1, 1993, and December 1, 1996), revealed minimal advances in the scientific body of knowledge on pressure ulcer treatment. Advances have been made in the knowledge of electrical therapy and growth factors, and efforts are under way to enhance tools for monitoring healing. In an era of limited research funding, we need to carefully target our research efforts to maximize the advancement of our knowledge of pressure ulcer treatment. It is the hope of the NPUAP that this monograph will guide the research needed to ensure the most efficient utilization of funds to improve patient outcomes.