Use of Moisture/climate management system in CVICU for prevention of pressure ulcers

Problem:  It was difficult to get a Low air Loss Mattress to the OR in a timely basis so that ppreventive care could begin at the onset post op.  The Moisture/Climate Management System (MCM) is a new product and needs to be studied for effectiveness and for cost efficiency compared to current low air loss system being rented.

Methodology - Patients at high risk for pressure ulcers were identified.  Patients going to surgery for complicated surgeries were sent to OR with a Moisture/Climate Management system (MCM).  Patients were kept on the MCM system while in the CVICU and the surface was treated as any other low air loss system with air permeable underpads and single drawsheet under the patient.  Cost of the equivalent rental of a Low air loss Mattress was compared to use of one MCM system for each patient.

Results - 26 patients were evaluated in a 4 week time frame.  All but one of the patients had surgery.  Surgeries included thoracotomy, CABG, LVAD, AVR, ECMO, Esophagectomy, other.

Four patients developed skin problems ralated to issues unrelated to correct use of the mattress.  Remainder of the patients had no skin breakdown.

There was an almost $9000 savings in cost without significant unexplained skin breakdown from pressure or moisture.

Outcome:  This moisture /Climate Manager was found to be cost efficient withou increased risk to the patient breakdown when compared to another Low air loss mattress.  The system was easier to place on the bed prior to surgery.