The AHCPR pressure ulcer infection control recommendations revisited

The 1994 AHCPR Pressure Ulcer Treatment Guideline had five recommendations on infection control topics. A review of the literature since mid-1993 when the evidence to support these recommendations was undertaken is reported on here. The author suggests that the recommendations be revisited in light of two recent quasi-experimental studies, but since no randomized controlled trials were found, the strength-of-evidence ratings should remain at C for all five recommendations. Infection control for chronic wound care is a complex issue and is clearly in need of further research. In the meantime, common-sense, reasonably prudent, do-no-harm interventions should be considered best practice.