Proposed Guideline Statements for the Use of Dressings in Pressure Ulcer Prevention

Background: 

Prophylactically applied dressings have not been included in the recommended guidelines for pressure ulcer prevention.  However, recent data supports the use of composite dressings to reduce pressure ulcer development in high risk patients (Brindle, 2010; Chaiken, 2011; Walsh, 2011).   

Purpose: 

To examine the research evidence on the use of dressings in pressure ulcer prevention from both clinical and laboratory studies. Dressing characteristics which reduce risk factors leading to pressure ulcer formation will be identified. Using this evidence, practice recommendations will be developed on identification of high risk patients and selection of dressings based on their properties.

Methods:                                                                                                                 

An international panel of pressure ulcer experts was convened at the European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel Conference in Oporto, Portugal. Members from the United States, United Kingdom, Portugal, and Australia were represented. A review of current, historical, and emerging literature involving topically applied dressings or textiles were examined for their relevance and strength of evidence.  The panel examined the English and Spanish literature and have developed a set of proposed guideline statements on the use of dressings for pressure ulcer prevention with supporting evidence.

Findings:

Statements developed to date will be presented for audience polling. The findings of the poll will be returned to the panel for revision of the guideline statements.  Based upon the results of literature review, understanding of emerging evidence, clinical opinion represented in poll results, and the consensus of the expert panel, recommendations for the use of dressings in clinical practice to reduce pressure ulcer formation will be published.