Recognizing the feet as being at risk from pressure damage

Area of Science:

• Podiatry
• Clinical Nursing
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Patients with reduced mobility, particularly those nursed out of bed in chairs, are at high risk for heel tissue damage.
• Current provision of foot support for seated patients in hospital and community settings is often inadequate.
• Specialist equipment for heel protection in this patient group is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the current provision of foot support strategies for patients with reduced mobility.
• To audit the effectiveness and patient satisfaction with a specialized foot protector (Repose Foot Protector) for pressure relief.

Main Methods:

• Phase I: A survey of 289 patients in hospital and community settings to assess current foot support strategies.
• Phase II: An audit of 100 patients using the Repose Foot Protector to evaluate its impact on skin condition, comfort, and satisfaction.

Main Results:

• The survey revealed a significant lack of appropriate foot support for seated patients, with only 23.2% receiving any form of support.
• The primary reasons for requesting the Repose Foot Protector were pressure relief (81 occasions), 'foot drop' management (32 occasions), and comfort (31 occasions).
• Significant improvements in heel skin condition and patient comfort were observed (P<0.0001), alongside high levels of staff and patient satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need for improved foot support interventions for patients with reduced mobility seated out of bed.
• The Repose Foot Protector demonstrates efficacy in enhancing heel skin integrity, comfort, and patient satisfaction.
• Implementing specialized foot support devices can effectively mitigate risks associated with immobility and improve patient outcomes.