Pressure-relieving supports in an ICU

Area of Science:

• Medical Technology
• Patient Care

Background:

• Intensive care units (ICUs) experience a high incidence of pressure sores.
• Effective prevention strategies are crucial for patient outcomes and healthcare costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the cost-effectiveness of constant-low-pressure and alternating-pressure support systems for preventing pressure sores in an ICU setting.
• To evaluate the efficacy of different pressure support systems in preventing pressure ulcer development.

Main Methods:

• A randomized trial was conducted in an eight-bed ICU unit.
• Patients at risk (Norton score < 13) were allocated to either alternating-pressure or constant-low-pressure support systems.
• Support systems were upgraded if patient pressure areas deteriorated.

Main Results:

• None of the 23 patients on alternating-pressure supports developed open sores; only one required a more sophisticated mattress.
• Eleven of 20 patients on constant-low-pressure supports developed erythema or sores, with ten requiring upgraded systems.
• Mean cost per patient was £44.50 for alternating-pressure and £86.20 for constant-low-pressure systems.

Conclusions:

• Alternating-pressure support systems are significantly more effective and cost-effective in preventing pressure sores in ICUs.
• The use of alternating-pressure systems can lead to substantial cost savings by reducing the need for more expensive interventions.