Managing Decubitus ulcers During COVID-19 Outbreak is even more Challenging

Abstract

Introduction: The World Health Organization declared the outbreak of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) a pandemic on March 11, 2020. The service delivery capacity of the health system around the world was quickly overwhelmed, primarily due to the influx of patients with respiratory symptoms due to COVID-19 and the precautions required to prevent spread of the highly infectious virus. The treatment of pressure ulcers in inpatient services, intensive care units, and palliative care units can be very challenging and costly at the best of times; however, hospitals had to adapt quickly to new and difficult circumstances. Methods: Patients were treated at home as much as possible to reduce hospital stay and visits. The wounds of hospitalized patients were closed as soon as it was feasible and patients were discharged and followed up at home. Guidance was provided regarding the use of isolation and N95 masks to prevent infection and the prevention of new wounds. Existing wounds were reconstructed with single-session surgeries as much as possible. Results: Primary treatment at home, limited surgical repair, and the observance of specific precautions almost certainly reduced the number of cases of COVID-19 infection. Treatment with silver dressings and vacuum-assisted closure were effective infection control measures and allowed for the practical allocation of limited hospital resources. Discussion and Conclusion:The training provided by public hospital training units to wound care personnel, home care service personnel, and family members was successful and valuable. Existing wounds were closed and new wounds were prevented. This vulnerable patient population was protected as a result of a thorough and proactive approach applied during a difficult period.