Wound Care Nursing Protocol Dramatically Reduces Bedsores

A protocol of care that uses a standardized wound care algorithm with advanced products reduced the prevalence of pressure ulcers by 90%, according to a new study.

Researcher at the Maricopa Integrated Health System (MIHS; Phoenix, AZ, USA) used the Solutions algorithms, an evidence-based wound assessment, treatment, and prevention guideline as the foundation for the new protocol. Over 1,100 MIHS nurses were trained on the use of the algorithms, and utilized the advanced products specified in the evidence-based protocol for pressure ulcer prevention: Aloe Vesta skin care products, which provide patients with a comprehensive portfolio of cleansing, bathing, moisturizing, and protection products that can help maintain skin integrity and prevent pressure ulcers; DuoDERM dressings which incorporate hydrocolloid technology; and the Flexi-Seal fecal management system (FMS), a temporary containment device for patients with acute fecal incontinence designed to safely and effectively divert fecal matter, protecting patients' wounds from fecal contamination, and reducing the risk of both skin breakdown and spread of infection. The results showed that after the first year, an audit found an approximately 50% reduction in hospital-acquired pressure ulcers. By December 2008, following the full rollout of the interactive algorithms, a second audit reported a 90% reduction in pressure ulcers. The study results were presented at the 41st annual conference of the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurses (WOCN) Society, held during June 2009 in Phoenix (AZ, USA).

"With Solutions Algorithms and the right products, we achieved our goal of significantly reducing the prevalence of pressure ulcers across our entire system, and improving patient care in line with quality of care standards,” said study presenter Joann Bowser, R.N, B.S.N. "In addition, the easy-to-use interactive algorithms have helped all of our nurses work smarter, not harder, applying validated best practices in skin and wound care with even more consistent results.”

The Solutions Algorithms were developed by ConvaTec (Skillman, NJ, USA), a leading manufacturer of ostomy care, wound therapeutics, continence, and critical care and infusion devices.

Related Links:
Maricopa Integrated Health System
ConvaTec