Interdisciplinary Essentials in Pressure Ulcer Management

Abstract

To successfully prevent pressure ulcer (PU) formation, it is essential to understand the fundamental concept that there are multiple intrinsic and extrinsic factors leading to the development of PUs. Having a PU not only greatly impacts a person's quality of life, it also places a heavy burden on the health care system in treatment costs. 1 Recent trends in health care delivery suggest a comprehensive mul-tidisciplinary approach to achieve successful wound management outcomes. 2 The team typically includes physicians, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, and psychologists, together with some input from biomedical engineers (Fig. 15.1). This chapter addresses the essentials of PU management from the perspectives of a multidisciplinary PU management team. Key Points1. Effective pressure ulcer (PU) management requires consideration of multiple intrinsic and extrinsic factors. 2.A comprehensive multidisciplinary approach is essential to achieve successful PU management outcomes. Individual members of the multidisciplinary team contribute their own expertise while collaborating and communicating with other team members about risk modification. 3.Many pressure ulcers are preventable with the use of appropriate, currently available interventions. The clinician's focus is on modification of as many medical risk factors as possible. The nursing process facilitates assessment and evaluation of PU status and assists in determining new strategies. Physical, occupational, and other rehabilitation therapists develop individualized, comprehensive plans for pressure management based on patient and family education together with assessment and selection of support surfaces and positioning devices for effective pressure relief. Nutrition, psychosocial status, and patient education are all critical factors in PU prevention and management.