Tolmie, E. P. and Smith, L. N. (2002) A study of the prevention and management of pressure sores. Clinical Effectiveness in Nursing, 6(3-4), pp. 111-120. (doi: 10.1016/S1361-9004(02)00071-7)
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Abstract
Objectives: (1) To determine if there was an association between pressure sore risk assessment, severity of sore and planning of patient care and (2) to identify the methods used to prevent and treat pressure sores.<p></p> Design: The study was a two-phase non-experimental design.<p></p> Methods: All patients had pressure sore risk assessed on admission and discharge. They were scored according to the Waterlow system or the Stirling Pressure Sore Severity Scale. Nominal data were analysed by χ2 and grouped data by Kruskal–Wallis ANOVAR.<p></p> Setting: 500 bedded acute care hospital trust in Scotland.<p></p> Sample: 30 Registered Nurses and 327 patient records.<p></p> Results: Significant relationships were detected:<p></p> 1. Between the Waterlow score and pressure relief (χ2=32.92, df=2, p<0.001) between the Waterlow score and patient education (χ2=6.04, df=2, p<0.05). 2. Between care plan type and pressure relief (χ2=38.3, df=2, p<0.01) mobilisation (χ2=12.1, df=2, p<0.016) and patient education (χ2=40.8, df=2, p<0.01).<p></p> Therewas no significant relationship between Waterlow score and mobilisation (χ2=3.2, df=4, p=0.530) or between Waterlow score and severity of sore (df=4, p=0.7265).<p></p> Conclusion: The initial Waterlow score was not predictive although the Stirling Pressure Sore Severity Scale was indicative of skin status. This study indicates that a number of issues need to be addressed. Of particular concern is that even when risk factors were identified for a patient, they were rarely taken into account when planning care. Furthermore, according to nurses’ own accounts and by patient record analysis, the Waterlow Risk Assessment Scale appears to be unreliable when used in clinical practice.
| Item Type: | Articles |
|---|---|
| Status: | Published |
| Refereed: | Yes |
| Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: | Tolmie, Dr Elizabeth and Smith, Professor Lorraine |
| Authors: | Tolmie, E. P., and Smith, L. N. |
| College/School: | College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Nursing and Health Care |
| Journal Name: | Clinical Effectiveness in Nursing |
| Publisher: | Elsevier |
| ISSN: | 1361-9004 |
| ISSN (Online): | 1532-9275 |
| Published Online: | 08 February 2003 |
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