Purpose:  The purpose of this correlational study is to examine the relationship between length of stay in the emergency department and hospital acquired pressure ulcers.

Background and Significance:  Studies have shown that prevention protocols are effective in reducing the incidence of hospital acquired pressure ulcers (Beckrich & Aronovitch, 1999).  A Pressure Ulcer Prevention Protocol was developed and implemented on all nursing units in a Magnet designated community hospital, with the exception of the Emergency Department (ED).  Given the complex nature of the ED and the multitude of interactions that patients receive; this investigator is exploring the feasibility of implementing the Pressure Ulcer Prevention Protocol in the ED. Implementing this in the emergency department will help recognize patients at high risk for pressure ulcers, and nursing interventions can be implemented earlier.   

Methodology:  A correlational study is being conducted using data collected from medical records for a one-year period.  Inclusion criteria:  Patients seeking medical assistance through the Emergency Department who were subsequently admitted to the Medical-Surgical/Orthopedic Unit, Telemetry Unit, Medical-Surgical/Oncology Unit or the Intensive Care Unit, and developed a pressure ulcer during their stay.      

Data analysis:  Data will be analyzed using SPSS. 

Results:  The findings from this study will be presented.  Grafts and/or charts will be used to emphasize important findings.      

Conclusion:  The findings of the study and implications for practice will be presented.