Pressure Ulcer Prevention
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QI 2: USE PRESSURE REDUCTION SURFACES
With respect to the second QI, we are happy to report that, for the most part, nursing homes appear to be meeting this standard. In our PU care evaluation study, 84% of the 16 participating nursing homes passed this QI (2). Two possible explanations for such commendable compliance are that use of pressure reduction surfaces typically requires a one-time only placement of a pad or overlay and the visibility of these devices make it easy for supervisors to monitor their use.
There remains, however, room for improvement, especially with respect to the use of wheelchair overlays. Our nursing home observations suggest that staff often stop with the use of mattress overlays and low air loss beds, overlooking the fact that some PU risk residents spend a lot of time in their wheelchairs. Consider this in your assessments and take preventive action when indicated.
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