Total bed management: the way forward in pressure sore prevention

King's College Hospital, London, is the first trust to implement total bed management (TBM) to assist in the reduction and prevention of pressure sores. TBM is a new concept, whereby the tissue viability, manual handling and therapy needs of the trust are met at reduced costs through a partnership with a contractor. The introduction of a large number of electric bed frames and foam mattress replacements, with the availability of dynamic pressure-relieving equipment and a service agreement, has led to an expected trust saving of 86,000 Pounds in 1998/1999 and 100,000 Pounds in 1999/2000 onwards. This article outlines the perceived benefits of this approach.