An evidence based approach to a perennial problem: pressure ulcers

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Patient Care
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Preventing pressure ulcers presents multifaceted challenges for nursing staff.
• Complexities include interpreting evidence-based practice and managing healthcare costs while respecting patient preferences.
• Pressure ulcer prevention is a cost-effective strategy often overlooked in literature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define pressure ulcers according to the International Classification for Nursing Practice.
• To review the existing research literature on evidence-based strategies for pressure ulcer prevention.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of research on pressure ulcer prevention strategies.
• Definition of pressure ulcers using the International Classification for Nursing Practice (ICNP).

Main Results:

• The paper defines pressure ulcers based on ICNP criteria.
• Evidence-based prevention strategies are outlined from the research literature.

Conclusions:

• Effective nursing care is crucial for preventing pressure ulcers across varied patient populations.
• Implementing evidence-based prevention strategies is a cost-effective approach to patient care.