Bed surfaces and pressure sore prevention: an abridged report

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Patient Care
• Wound Prevention

Background:

• Pressure sores, also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores, are a significant concern in healthcare settings.
• Effective prevention and treatment strategies are crucial for patient well-being and reducing healthcare costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review randomized controlled trials on the efficacy of specialized support surfaces for pressure sore management.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of special beds, mattresses, and cushions in preventing and treating pressure sores.

Main Methods:

• An integrative research review was conducted.
• A comprehensive search of databases and unpublished studies identified 37 relevant studies.
• Data were extracted and studies were categorized by product type.

Main Results:

• Many specialized pressure-relieving surfaces demonstrated superior effectiveness compared to standard hospital foam mattresses.
• These specialized products showed benefits in both the prevention and treatment of pressure sores.

Conclusions:

• The use of specialized pressure-relieving surfaces is recommended for patients identified as being at risk of skin breakdown.
• Healthcare providers should implement systematic protocols for risk assessment and intervention, utilizing available evidence to guide product selection.