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INTRODUCTION
A significant reduction in hospital acquired pressure ulcers was noted when our 215 bed facility added static air bed overlays to our pressure prevention program in 2005. The overlays improved patient protection and caregiver safety. However, with the installment of high end mattresses during 2010/2011, overlay use was decreased to contain costs. Subsequently our pressure ulcer rates increased. Our study goal was to confirm that a correlation existed between the rising pressure ulcer rates with the decreased use of the overlays.
METHODS
A pressure mapping system was used by a group of four adults varying in weight and height up to 181kg/75 inches to test various hospital surfaces including:
- Standard pressure redistribution mattresses
- Low air loss
- Stretchers
- Operating room pads: new and old
Pressure mapping was observed with bed positions set at zero and thirty degrees in the supine and side lying positions, while the operating room surfaces were only tested supine at zero degree. The same testing was repeated after the addition of a static air overlay.
RESULTS
High pressures over bony prominences were immediately visible on all facility surfaces with the exception of the new operating room pads. The elimination of those high pressure areas was observed when the static air overlays were in place and volunteers additionally reported improved comfort.
CONCLUSIONS
This study illustrates the effectiveness of using a pressure mapping system to determine the quality of facility support surfaces for patient protection from pressure ulcers. Confirmation of lower pressure when using the static air overlays substantiated the need to continue their benefits to patients and care providers. They remain an integral part of our prevention protocols, along with continued monitoring of pressure ulcer prevalences. Educational programs continue to foster consistency among staff efforts in preventive practices.