Reducing Hospital-Acquired Heel Ulcer Rates in an Acute Care Facility

Abstract

The intervention did not appear to receive adequate staff nurse support needed to make the project successful. Factors that influenced the lack of support may have included: (1) educational method used, (2) lack of organization approved, evidenced-based standardized protocols for prevention and treatment of heel ulcers, and (3) failure of facility management to convey the importance as well as their support for the project.

Reducing hospital acquired pressure ulcers in intensive care

“…Pressure ulcers are a mostly avoidable incidence. [ 12 ] Research has shown that when nursing staff are educated and knowledgeable on pressure ulcer prevention, nursing practice can then change and improve[ 13 ] According to Land,[ 14 ] pressure ulcer prevention is such a vital recurring aspect of nursing care that many staff fail to concede its importance and consequence in maintaining standards of care. Conversely, evidence has shown that patient acuity and nursing assignments have amplified in the last 30 years.…”

“…[ 17 ] Pressure ulcers are complex wounds requiring an overabundance of skills and knowledge to manage and care for. [ 12 ] There are many policies and guidelines on pressure ulcer prevention and management. [ 7 , 19 ] Regrettably, studies have shown that many qualified staff nurses do not adhere to these guidelines or evidence based practice, leading to insufficient pressure ulcer prevention practice.…”