Engaging patients in pressure ulcer prevention

Area of Science:

• Digital health
• Patient education
• Wound care

Background:

• Growing trend of home-based patient self-care necessitates accessible health information.
• Patients at risk of pressure ulcers require guidance for effective self-management.
• Existing guidelines from NPUAP and NICE provide a foundation for pressure ulcer prevention and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development of an educational electronic application (app) for patients at risk of pressure ulcers and their carers.
• To provide accessible information on pressure ulcer prevention, recognition, and management.
• To facilitate educational discussions among patients, carers, and healthcare professionals.

Main Methods:

• Development of a downloadable electronic application for smartphones and tablets (Windows, Android, Apple).
• Content based on current National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel and National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines.
• Focus on educating users about prevention, recognition, and management of pressure ulcers.

Main Results:

• An educational app has been developed and is available for multiple platforms.
• The app delivers evidence-based information on pressure ulcer care.
• The app aims to empower patients and carers with knowledge for self-care.

Conclusions:

• The developed app offers a valuable resource for patients and carers managing pressure ulcer risks.
• Accessible digital tools can support informed self-care and improve patient outcomes.
• The app has the potential to enhance communication and collaboration in pressure ulcer management.