Presence of pressure ulcer prevention methods used among patients considered at risk versus those considered not at risk.

PURPOSE: This study examined pressure ulcer-prevention strategies available for patients considered at risk versus those considered not at risk.
DESIGN: The study used a prospective, longitudinal design. SETTING AND
SUBJECTS: Six hundred ninety-four patients from units of five acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation facility, and two nurses' home care caseloads participated in the investigation. INSTRUMENTS: Data-collection instruments included the Braden Scale for risk assessment, demographic information, and the Pressure Ulcer-Prevention Strategies tool, which assessed for the presence of 16 pressure ulcer-prevention strategies.
METHODS: All patients admitted to a participating unit during a 2-month period were followed up until discharge. Depending on the site, patients were assessed for the presence of pressure ulcer-prevention strategies one to three times per week.
RESULTS: Patients in the at-risk group versus those in the not-at-risk group were more likely (p < 0.01) to have the head of the bed in a low position, a pressure-reducing bed surface, pressure ulcer prevention charted, a positioning wedge, incontinence cleanser and ointment, heel protection, a prevention care plan, a trapeze, and a posted turning schedule. The at-risk group had significantly (p < 0.01) more prevention strategies present than did the not-at-risk group. However, the percentage of patients placed on a pressure ulcer-prevention program was low for both groups.
CONCLUSIONS: Pressure ulcer prevention was evident for the at-risk group, but at a low rate. Institutions must continue to explore this critical area affecting patient outcomes.