Using wearable technology to prevent pressure injuries: An integrative review

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Technology
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs) significantly impact patient well-being and healthcare costs.
• Frequent repositioning is a key HAPI prevention strategy, but compliance remains a challenge.
• Wearable sensors offer a technological solution to enhance patient repositioning compliance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical outcomes associated with using wearable sensors for HAPI prevention.

Main Methods:

• An integrative review of eleven articles was conducted.
• Studies were appraised by two independent reviewers using the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice Research Appraisal Tool.

Main Results:

• Wearable sensors adoption correlated with increased adherence to turning protocols.
• Implementation of wearable sensors led to a reduction in HAPIs and associated healthcare expenses.
• No significant improvement in the quality of patient turns was observed.
• Staff reported positive experiences but highlighted the need for technological training.

Conclusions:

• Wearable sensors show promise in enhancing HAPI prevention by improving compliance and reducing costs.
• Further research is necessary to establish the definitive efficacy of wearable sensors in preventing pressure injuries.
• Adequate training is crucial for the effective integration of wearable sensor technology into clinical practice.