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Creation Date
4-19-2016
Description
Due to the high costs, infection risk, and prolonged hospital stays associated with pressure ulcers, exploration into the best method of prevention is an ongoing endeavor. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (2014), taking care of and preventing pressure ulcers costs about $9.1 to $11.6 billion every year. These adverse effects led to the following scholarly activity project question: What is the best method for preventing heel pressure ulcers in immobile patients? Methods included conducting a literature review, reviewing policy and procedure, and observing pressure ulcer prevention techniques in the adult clinical setting. While the literature review unearthed several promising methods, such as the use of special wrappings, mattresses, and complete renovation of hospital protocol, no one intervention stood out as best evidence- based practice. One theme with multiple appearances and abundant statistical support is the idea of a pressure ulcer bundle care. Bundle care typically involves 3-5 evidence-based interventions used with the same goal in mind; for pressure ulcer prevention, an example could be a care plan that includes skin assessment, repositioning, and nutritional support. The policy & procedures and observations of heel pressure ulcer prevention in the clinical setting were consistent with the literature. Implications for nursing practice, education, and research were provided.