Journal of tissue viability
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Pressure ulceration is a significant, but preventable, cause of morbidity and resource utilisation in hospital populations. Data on pressure ulcer prevalence in Ireland are limited. This study aims to determine (i) the point-prevalence of pressure ulcers in three teaching hospitals in Ireland and (ii) risk factors for their development. ⋯ Point-prevalence of pressure ulceration was 18.5%, similar to international data. Regular audit of prevalence, prevention and management strategies may raise awareness, influence resource allocation and ultimately improve patient care.
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The purpose of this study was to assess the utility of two instruments (the Braden scale and a multi-pad pressure evaluator) for predicting pressure ulcer development. A prospective cohort design was used and 105 intensive care unit patients participated in this study. The result was a 33% incidence of pressure ulcers. ⋯ The predictive validity of these tools was calculated. The results indicated that the multi-pad pressure evaluator provided the best balance between sensitivity and specificity. We suggest that the multi-pad pressure evaluator may be better suited for assessing the risk of pressure ulcers in intensive care units.
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Practice Guideline Guideline
The use of pressure-relieving devices (beds, mattresses and overlays) for the prevention of pressure ulcers in primary and secondary care.
Over the past year members of the Tissue Viability Society have been involved in helping the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) develop a new guideline on the use of pressure-relieving devices in pressure ulcer prevention. This article presents this guideline, its evidence base and the development process. Given that the guideline has been subject to NICE stakeholder review it has not been subjected to the normal peer-review process used by the Journal of Tissue Viability.