Related Experiment Videos
[Decubitus ulcers: evaluation of a protocol]
P Fernández Narváez1, M J Vallés Fernández
1Servicio de Círugía, Hospital del Espíritu Santo, Santa Coloma, Barcelona.
Revista De Enfermeria (Barcelona, Spain)
|May 1, 1997
Summary
This study on decubitus ulcers found that many patients admitted with pressure sores developed them in the hospital. While some healed, a significant portion worsened, with no clear risk factors identified.
Area of Science:
- Internal Medicine
- Wound Care
- Patient Safety
Context:
- Focuses on decubitus ulcers (pressure sores) within an Internal Medicine unit.
- Evaluates 60 at-risk hospitalized patients for ulcer development, treatment, and prevention.
- Assesses incidence and outcomes of pressure sores in a hospital setting.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the incidence, treatment, and prevention of decubitus ulcers.
- To identify risk factors associated with pressure sore development.
- To analyze healing rates and progression of existing ulcers.
Summary:
- 38 out of 60 at-risk patients developed lesions.
- 63.2% of ulcers were present on admission; 36.8% developed during hospitalization.
- 65.3% of ulcers healed, while 7.6% worsened; no significant statistical risk factors were found.
Impact:
- Highlights the prevalence of hospital-acquired pressure sores.
- Informs clinical practice regarding pressure ulcer management and prevention strategies.
- Suggests a need for further research into unidentified risk factors for decubitus ulcers.