Preventing Hospital Acquired Pressure Injuries in the Medicine/Surgical Intensive Care Unit

Critical Problem:

The ICU reported 25 HAPIs from April to December 2017. A root cause analysis determined staff were not utilizing skin care products, prevention methods, and resource tools appropriately.

Aim:

The aim of the project was to explain the reasoning behind hospital-acquired pressure injuries to reduce them to an outcome goal of zero by July 2018. Additional goals: provide education to staff on use of products, improve communication, complete weekly rounding, and improve documentation.

Methods/Programs/Practices:

Data collection started by weekly observations in the ICU, counting 5-layer foam dressing’s PAR level, and collecting monthly reports from documentation. During this process a skin care protocol was modified. Education provided to team member of the materials department on accessibility of products. Reinforcement of education and weekly rounding by the WOC nurse was key to success for nursing.

Outcome Data:

The outcome of the project was ZERO HAPI’s by July 2018. Additionally, staff were educated by the WOC nurse during weekly rounding and improved use of skin care protocol. Due to the education, rounding, and 5-layer foam dressing applications, the hospital acquired pressure injuries steadily declined. Implementation of the skin care protocol is now our standard of practice.

Conclusion:

Education to staff on pressure injury prevention improved the utilization of the 5-layer foam dressing usage. Weekly rounding continues to build relationships and trust for all ICU staff. Development of the skin care protocol has improved the HAPI rate and provided evidence-based education to staff for enhanced quality of care and outcomes. Going forward these tools will be utilized to assist in patient care and delivery.