Prevention and Early Detection of Pressure Ulcers in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

ABSTRACT
- ABSENCE OF PRESSURE ULCERS is increasingly being used as an indicator of quality nursing care, based on the premise that pressure ulcers are preventable.
- THIS RETROSPECTIVE STUDY examined the occurrence, presentation, and timing of pressure ulcer development in 150 patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
- PRESSURE ULCER INCIDENTS were recorded in groups of patients who underwent surgery with use of a standard foam OR bed mattress; use of a fluid, pressure-reducing OR bed mattress; or use of a fluid, pressuring-reducing mattress after a comprehensive educational program on pressure ulcer prevention was presented to RNs.
- THE NUMBER of pressure ulcers decreased when the fluid, pressure-reducing OR bed mattresses were used in conjunction with the comprehensive RN education program. AORN J 84 (July 2006) 75-96. © AORN, Inc, 2006.