Evidence-based clinical guidelines for pressure ulcer prevention in elderly patients

Abstract

Older adults are particularly vulnerable to the development of pressure ulcers (PUs) as a result of skin changes and reduced mobility (Knox, Anderson & Anderson, 1994; Russell et al., 2003). This is associated with diminished quality of life, longer hospitalisations and increased morbidity and mortality (Margolis et al., 2002).In view of the high incidence of PUs (grade 1-4) occurring in elderly patients in acute care, a systematic review of related studies was conducted in August 2011. The optimal frequency and methods of repositioning are described in the literature. With well-designed implementation and evaluation plans, the proposed repositioning guidelines are likely to reduce the incidence of PUs (grade 1-4), while in turn lessening the healthcare burden and preserving patients’ quality of life.

Pilot testing, a trial run to test the feasibility of the innovation, will be carried out in the proposed medical ward, and training provided to all staff before the intervention. To proceed with the change, the intervention must be cost-effective and beneficial to all stakeholders. Outcome evaluation determines the number of goals achieved by the innovation and to what degree, and is very important (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2005).The PU incidence (grade 1-4) is expected to be different after the implementation of the innovation.