The link between absorbent pads and pressure management products

Very little is known about the relationship between pressure management products (also known as pressure-relieving devices or pressure-redistributing devices) and absorbent continence products. However, a new project will focus on this little investigated yet important area of nursing research. The project is being carried out as part of a new award scheme that aims to enhance nursing research capacity by funding nurses to carry out doctoral level research (Box 1). A strong association between poor mobility and continence problems has been identified (Sgadari et al, 1997; Jirovec and Wells, 1990; McGrother et al, 1990; Ouslander et al, 1987) and reduced mobility is considered to be one of the intrinsic risk factors for the development of pressure ulcers (RCN, 2001). However, the relationship between incontinence and the development of pressure ulcers is not fully understood.