Nurses' perspectives on the adoption of new smart technologies for patient care: focus group interviews

BACKGROUND

The adoption of smart technologies for patient care is greatly increasing. IoT-based smart mattresses offer features such as automatic body repositioning for pressure ulcer prevention, weight measurement, vital sign tracking, and rapid response to emergencies. This study explores nurses' perspectives on the adoption of smart technologies, with a particular focus on smart mattresses in hospitals.

METHODS

Focus group interviews were conducted with 17 nurses from intensive care parts, general wards, and COVID-19 designated wards in a tertiary university hospital in South Korea. Data were collected through online meetings and analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Thematic analysis revealed six major themes and 14 subthemes under three categories. Patient-related perspectives included themes of 'difficulties in meeting patients' care needs' and 'identified areas for technology adoption based on patient care experiences.' Nursing-related perspectives encompassed 'potentials of smart technology for nursing care' and 'increased time and workload due to new device usage.' Technology-related perspectives included 'previous experience with technology devices' and 'expectations for in-development devices.'

CONCLUSIONS

Nurses generally expressed receptiveness to smart technologies including smart mattresses, recognizing their potential to enhance patient care and nursing efficiency. Perspectives varied by department, highlighting the need for tailored solutions. Prior experiences, both positive and negative, offered important insights for designing devices that are more compatible with clinical practice. Incorporating nurses' feedback and addressing educational needs are critical for successful adoption.

Dressings and topical agents for preventing pressure ulcers

BACKGROUND

Pressure ulcers occur when people cannot reposition themselves to relieve pressure over bony prominences. They are difficult to heal, costly, and reduce quality of life. Dressings and topical agents (lotions, creams, and oils) for pressure ulcer prevention are widely used. However, their effectiveness is unclear. This is the third update of this review.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of dressings and topical agents on pressure ulcer prevention, in people of any age without existing pressure ulcers, but at risk of developing one, in any healthcare setting.

SEARCH METHODS

We used the Cochrane Wounds Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, two other databases, and two trial registers, together with reference checking, citation searching, and contact with study authors to identify the studies that are included in the review. The latest search date was November 2022. We imposed no restrictions on language, publication date, or setting.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials that enroled people at risk of developing a pressure ulcer.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methodological procedures.

MAIN RESULTS

In this update, we added 33 new studies, resulting in a total of 51 trials (13,303 participants). Of these, 31 studies involved dressings, 16 topical agents, and four included both dressings and topical agents. All trials reported the primary outcome of pressure ulcer incidence. Dressings Pressure ulcer incidence We made a total of 13 comparisons with 9027 participants. We present seven prioritised comparisons in the summary of findings (SoF) tables, as follows: silicone foam dressing versus no dressing (18 trials, 5903 participants; risk ratio (RR) 0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.33 to 0.77); foam dressing versus film dressing (3 trials, 569 participants; RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.20 to 2.67); hydrocellular foam dressing versus hydrocolloid dressing (1 trial, 80 participants; RR not estimable); silicone foam dressing type 1 versus silicone foam dressing type 2 (2 trials, 376 participants; RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.56 to 1.15); foam dressing versus fatty acid (2 trials, 300 participants; RR 1.67, 95% CI 0.49 to 5.72); polyurethane film versus hydrocolloid dressing (1 trial, 160 participants; RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.24 to 1.41); and hydrocolloid dressing versus no dressing (2 trials, 230 participants; RR 0.60, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.78). All low or very low-certainty evidence. The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of dressings on pressure ulcer development. Pressure ulcer stage Three comparisons reported pressure ulcer (PU) stage. Silicone foam dressing versus no dressing: PU stage 1 (8 trials, 1823 participants; RR 0.32, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.79); PU stage 2 (10 trials, 2873 participants; RR 0.47, 95% CI 0.30 to 0.73); PU stage 3 (3 trials, 718 participants; RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.06 to 3.21); PU stage 4 (2 trials, 610 participants; RR 0.21, 95% CI 0.02 to 1.77); unstageable PU (1 trial, 366 participants; RR 0.20, 95% CI 0.01 to 4.09); deep tissue injury (3 trials, 840 participants; RR 0.32, 95% CI 0.09 to 1.08). Foam dressing versus film dressing: PU stage 1 (1 trial, 270 participants; RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.80); PU stage 2 (1 trial, 270 participants; RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.06 to 15.82); deep tissue injury (1 trial, 270 participants; RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.11 to 3.93). Hydrocolloid dressing versus no dressing: PU stage 1 (1 trial, 108 participants; RR 0.54, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.94); PU stage 2 (1 trial, 108 participants; RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.28 to 2.66). All low or very low-certainty evidence. The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of dressings on different stages of pressure ulcer development. Adverse events One comparison reported adverse events: silicone foam dressing versus no dressing (3 trials, 2317 participants; RR not estimable; very low-certainty evidence). Silicone foam dressings may have little to no effect on the incidence of adverse events, but the evidence is very uncertain. Topical agents Pressure ulcer incidence We evaluated seven comparisons with 4276 participants. We present five prioritised comparisons in the SoF tables as follows: fatty acid versus placebo (6 trials, 2201 participants; RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.54 to 1.36); fatty acid versus usual care (7 trials, 1058 participants; RR 0.64, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.84); cream versus fatty acid (1 trial, 120 participants; RR 3.00, 95% CI 0.32 to 28.03); cream versus placebo (3 trials, 513 participants; RR 1.18, 95% CI 0.59 to 2.36); and cream versus usual care (1 trial, 47 participants; RR 1.60, 95% CI 0.84 to 3.04). All very low-certainty evidence. It is very uncertain whether they make any difference to PU development. Pressure ulcer stage Two comparisons reported PU stage. Fatty acid versus usual care: PU stage 1 (2 trials, 180 participants; RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.49 to 2.03); PU stage 2 (2 trials, 180 participants; RR 0.19, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.53). Cream versus placebo: PU stage 3 (1 trial, 258 participants; RR 1.25, 95% CI 0.34 to 4.55); PU stage 4 (1 trial, 258 participants; RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.01 to 8.11). Both low or very low-certainty evidence. It is uncertain whether they make any difference to the stage of PU development. Adverse events One comparison reported adverse events: fatty acid versus placebo (3 trials, 967 participants; RR 4.38, 95% CI 0.50 to 38.30; very low-certainty evidence). Fatty acid may have little to no effect on the incidence of adverse events compared to placebo, but the evidence is very uncertain. Risk of bias and imprecision were the main reasons for downgrading the certainty of the evidence.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The included studies tested a wide variety of dressings and topical agents. The evidence for all interventions is uncertain or very uncertain; thus, it is unclear whether any of the dressings or topical agents studied make any difference to pressure ulcer development. Future studies should engage with stakeholders to determine priority interventions.

Hospital acquired pressure injuries prevalence and preventive measures in Omani critical care units: A multicenter cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Pressure Injuries are a prevalent and concerning issue in critical care settings, impacting patient well-being and healthcare systems.

PURPOSE

Measure the point prevalence of acquired pressure injuries in Omani critical care units and assess the adequacy of preventive measures.

METHODS

A multicenter cross-sectional survey was conducted in four major Omani hospitals, encompassing various geographical regions and health sectors. A convenient sample of 156 adult patients in critical care units was examined using the European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel methodology. Data on prevalence, risk assessment, and prevention measures were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

The study revealed a prevalence rate of 21.8 % for hospital-acquired pressure injuries (including stage I) and 19.2 % (excluding stage I) in Omani critical care units. The sacrum was the most affected area, with stage II being predominant. Alarmingly, some at-risk patients did not receive appropriate preventive equipment, while low-risk patients received unnecessary measures. Approximately 73.3 % of at-risk patients received adequate prevention.

CONCLUSION

This pioneering study in Oman addresses the prevalence of Pressure Injuries, revealing rates that are higher than international norms. Additionally, the research underscores deficiencies in preventive measures, such as inadequate prevention for at-risk patients and unnecessary measures for low-risk individuals.

Determinants of pressure injury development in patients with COVID-19

OBJECTIVE

Pressure injuries (PIs) often develop in critically ill patients due to immobility, and underlying comorbidities that decrease tissue perfusion and wound healing capacity. This study sought to provide epidemiological data on determinants and current managements practices of PI in patients with COVID-19.

METHOD

A US national insurance-based database consisting of patients with coronavirus or COVID-19 diagnoses was used for data collection. Patients were filtered by International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes corresponding to coronavirus or COVID-19 diagnosis between 2019-2020. Diagnosis of PI following COVID-19 diagnosis was queried. Demographic data and comorbidity information was compared. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors for both PI development and likelihood of operative debridement.

RESULTS

A total of 1,477,851 patients with COVID-19 were identified. Of these, 15,613 (1.06%) subsequently developed a PI, and 8074 (51.7%) of these patients had an intensive care unit (ICU) admission. The average and median time between diagnosis of COVID-19 and PI was 39.4 and 26 days, respectively. PI was more likely to occur in patients with COVID-19 with: diabetes (odds ratio (OR): 1.39, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.29-1.49; p<0.001); coronary artery disease (OR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.04-1.18, p=0.002), hypertension (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.26-1.64; p<0.001); chronic kidney disease (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.10-1.26; p<0.001); depression (OR: 1.45, 95% CI 1.36-1.54; p<0.001); and long-term non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use (OR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.05-1.40; p=0.007). They were also more likely in critically ill patients admitted to the ICU (OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.31-1.48; p<0.001); and patients requiring vasopressors (OR:1.25, 95% CI: 1.13-1.38; p<0.001), intubation (OR: 1.21, 95% CI 1.07-1.39; p=0.004), or with a diagnosis of sepsis (OR: 2.38, 95% CI 2.22-2.55; p<0.001). ICU admission, sepsis, buttock and lower back PI along with increasing Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) (OR: 1.04, 95% CI 1.00-1.08; p=0.043) was associated with surgical debridement. The vast majority of patients with COVID-19 did not undergo operative debridement or wound coverage.

CONCLUSION

PIs are widely prevalent in patients with COVID-19, especially in those who are critically ill, yet the vast majority do not undergo operative procedures.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST

The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Patient Repositioning during Hospitalization and Prevention of Pressure Ulcers: a Narrative Review

Objective

This article presents a literature review to explore and analyze the current situation of pressure ulcers or lesions or decubitus ulcers, pathophysiological, epidemiological aspects, and risk factors. The progress in evidence of the effectiveness of preventive repositioning in the appearance of these lesions in vulnerable hospitalized patients is also evaluated.

Methods

Databases were reviewed in non-systematic manner, including the Cochrane Wounds Specialized Register; Medline, Scopus, PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials; MEDLINE (Ovid); EMBASE (Ovid), Web of Science, SciELO, and Lilacs. The general search terms included [pressure ulcers or pressure lesions or decubitus ulcers] and [prevention or preventive] and [repositioning or positioning or position changes or postural change] and [patient at risk or vulnerable] and [hospitalized or ICU or intensive care]. Systematic literature reviews, randomized clinical trials, observational studies, cost-effectiveness and qualitative studies in English or Spanish were included.

Results

Although globally, the incidence, prevalence, and years of disability associated to these lesions has diminished between 1990 and 2019, the high impact on health persists. Evidence found on the effectiveness of repositioning in preventing pressure ulcers and health associated costs has been evaluated with certainty between low and very low, as a result of conducting research with serious methodological limitations that report results with high inaccuracy.

Conclusion

The findings reported present that these lesions persist at hospital level and continue being a global social and health problem with high impact on health budgets. Likewise, there is a need to develop greater quality research on prevention strategies, such as repositioning, which validate their effectiveness, and justify their use.

Family-centred empowerment using telenursing on pressure injury incidence in post-discharge stroke patients

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a family-centred empowerment intervention on the incidence, stage and status of pressure injury (PI) in patients diagnosed with stroke during the post-discharge period with a telenursing approach.

METHOD

This randomised controlled clinical trial (RCT) was conducted with patients admitted to Ghaem Hospital in Mashhad and who were diagnosed with stroke. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two equal-sized groups: intervention and control. Family education and follow-up of the intervention group was performed using WhatsApp messenger for one month. Caregivers of patients in the control group received the routine training programme. The incidence, stage and status of PIs of both groups were measured at the beginning and at one month later using the Braden Scale, the EPUAP/NPUAP Classification System, and the Pressure Ulcer Scale for Healing (PUSH).

RESULTS

A total of 60 patients took part in the RCT (30 patients allocated to each group). The incidence of PI in the control group was significantly higher than in the intervention group (p<0.001). The results showed significantly lower stages of PI in the intervention group than in the control group (p<0.001 and p<0.05 for univariable and multivariable models, respectively). The results showed a significantly lower PUSH score in the intervention group than in the control group (p<0.001 and p<0.05 for univariable and multivariable models, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The findings of this RCT show that the empowerment and training of caregivers of patients diagnosed with stroke after discharge using telenursing can reduce the incidence and severity of PIs and improve their status in these patients.

Effect of various repositioning regimens on pressure wound ulcer occurrence in at-risk adult persons without existing pressure wound ulcers: A meta-analysis

Meta-analysis research was implemented to appraise the effect of various repositioning regimens (RRs) on pressure wound ulcer (PWU) occurrence in at-risk adult persons without existing PWUs. Inclusive literature research till April 2023 was done and 1197 interconnected researches were revised. The 15 picked researches, enclosed 8510 at-risk adult persons without existing PWUs persons were in the utilised researchers' starting point, 1002 of them were utilising repositioning, 1069 were control, 3443 were utilising 2-<4 h repositioning and 2994 were utilising 4-6 h repositioning. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were utilised to appraise the consequence of various RRs on PWU occurrence in at-risk adult persons without existing PWUs by the dichotomous approach and a fixed or random model. Repositioning had significantly lower PWU (OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.32-0.73, p < 0.001) compared to control in at-risk adult persons without existing PWUs persons. 2-<4 h repositioning had significantly lower PWU (OR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.42-0.90, p = 0.01) compared to 4-6 h repositioning in at-risk adult persons without existing PWUs persons. Repositioning had significantly lower PWU compared to control in at-risk adult persons without existing PWU persons. 2-<4 h repositioning had significantly lower PWU compared to 4-6 h repositioning in at-risk adult persons without existing PWUs persons. However, caution needs to be taken when interacting with its values since there was a low sample size of some of the chosen research found for the comparisons in the meta-analysis.

The theory and practice of pressure ulcer/injury risk assessment: a critical discussion

Pressure ulcer/injury (PU) risk assessment is widely considered an essential component in clinical practice. It is a complex and broad concept that includes different approaches, such as clinical judgement, using standardised risk assessment instruments, skin assessments, or using devices to measure skin or tissue properties. A distinction between PU risk assessment and early detection is important. PU risk measures the individual's susceptibility to developing a PU under a specific exposure (primary prevention), and early detection includes the assessment of early (sub)clinical signs and symptoms to prevent progression and to support healing (secondary prevention). PU risk is measured using prognostic/risk factors or prognostic models. Every risk estimate is a probability statement containing varying degrees of uncertainty. It therefore follows that every clinical decision based on risk estimates also contains uncertainty. PU risk assessment and prevention is a complex intervention, where delivery contains several interacting components. There is a huge body of evidence indicating that risk assessment and its outcomes, the selection of preventive interventions and PU incidence are not well connected. Methods for prognostic model development and testing in PU risk research must be improved and follow state-of-the-art methodological standards. Despite these challenges, we do have substantial knowledge about PU risk factors that helps us to make better clinical decisions. An important next step in the development of PU risk prediction might be the combination of clinical and other predictors for more individualised care. Any prognostic test or procedure must lead to better prevention at an acceptable cost.

Importance of preemptive analgesia and pain assessment as perceived by intensive care unit nurses

Background

The importance and efficacy of Preemptive analgesia in reducing pain for patients undergoing painful procedures still debatable and seldom investigated. The aim of this study was to describe intensive care nurses' perception of the importance of pain assessment and Preemptive analgesia prior painful procedures in critical care settings in Jordan.

Method

A cross-sectional descriptive design was used. The sample consisted of 300 registered nurses recruited from 22 intensive care units in Jordan. The data was gathered using a self-administered questionnaire.

Results

The results showed that nurses considered pain assessment moderately and extremely important for surgical (n = 263, 87.7%), burn (n = 261, 87%), and trauma patients (n = 256, 85.3%). The majority of nurses rated pain assessment as moderately to extremely important for invasive line placement 80.3%, wound care 78.3%, and drain removal 69%. Nurses assessed the need for Preemptive analgesia more frequently before wound care 70.7%, and before invasive line placement 69.7%. Nurses perceived pain assessment for Preemptive analgesia as less priority for unconscious patients.

Conclusion

Effective assessment and management of pain for critically ill patients is mandatory. Thus, it is important to improve nurses' knowledge regarding the Preemptive analgesia and its effects in relieving post-procedural pain in critically ill patient. It is recommended to ensure proper clinical training on how to assess critically ill patients and auditing system.

Abnormal thrombosis and neutrophil activation increase hospital-acquired sacral pressure injuries and morbidity in COVID-19 patients

Hospitalized patients have an increased risk of developing hospital-acquired sacral pressure injury (HASPI). However, it is unknown whether SARS-CoV-2 infection affects HASPI development. To explore the role of SARS-CoV-2 infection in HASPI development, we conducted a single institution, multi-hospital, retrospective study of all patients hospitalized for ≥5 days from March 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020. Patient demographics, hospitalization information, ulcer characteristics, and 30-day-related morbidity were collected for all patients with HASPIs, and intact skin was collected from HASPI borders in a patient subset. We determined the incidence, disease course, and short-term morbidity of HASPIs in COVID-19(+) patients, and characterized the skin histopathology and tissue gene signatures associated with HASPIs in COVID-19 disease. COVID-19(+) patients had a 63% increased HASPI incidence rate, HASPIs of more severe ulcer stage (OR 2.0, p<0.001), and HASPIs more likely to require debridement (OR 3.1, p=0.04) compared to COVID-19(-) patients. Furthermore, COVID-19(+) patients with HASPIs had 2.2x increased odds of a more severe hospitalization course compared to COVID-19(+) patients without HASPIs. HASPI skin histology from COVID-19(+) patients predominantly showed thrombotic vasculopathy, with the number of thrombosed vessels being significantly greater than HASPIs from COVID-19(-) patients. Transcriptional signatures of a COVID-19(+) sample subset were enriched for innate immune responses, thrombosis, and neutrophil activation genes. Overall, our results suggest that immunologic dysregulation secondary to SARS-CoV-2 infection, including neutrophil dysfunction and abnormal thrombosis, may play a pathogenic role in development of HASPIs in patients with severe COVID-19.

Organizational citizenship behaviour as a protective factor against the occurrence of adverse nursing-sensitive outcomes: A multilevel investigation

AIMS

This study aimed to investigate the association between organizational citizenship behaviour enacted by nurses and the occurrence of adverse nursing-sensitive patient outcomes.

BACKGROUND

Managing psychosocial factors (i.e., aspects concerning the work environment) is key to ensure patient safety, to prevent exacerbation of case complexity and to cope with critical shortages in human and financial resources.

METHODS

Self-report measures of nurses' organizational citizenship behaviour were combined with objective data on the incidence of adverse nursing-sensitive outcomes (i.e., pressure ulcers and restraint use) collected through patients' medical records. Participants were 11,345 patients and 1346 nurses across 52 teams working in 14 Italian hospitals. Data were analysed using multilevel binary logistic regression models.

RESULTS

A negative relationship between nurses' organizational citizenship behaviour and restraint use was identified, with an odds ratio of 0.11. Thus, for a one-unit higher organizational citizenship behaviour score, the odds of using restraints shrink to about one eighth of the previous level.

CONCLUSIONS

Intervention strategies to foster the implementation of organizational citizenship behaviour among nurses may inhibit the occurrence of critical outcomes affecting patients' health and well-being (i.e., using restraint devices).

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT

In health care organizations, shaping a psychosocial environment encouraging organizational citizenship behaviour can mitigate the occurrence of adverse nursing-sensitive outcomes such as restraint use on patients.

Application Value of Management Model Based on “Zero Tolerance” Concept in Pressure Ulcer Management

Background

Pressure injuries are the most prevalent health problem worldwide. Improving the quality of hospital pressure injury management is an important indicator to improve the quality of hospital management.

Objective

To explore the application value of the management model centered on the concept of “zero tolerance” in the management of pressure ulcers (PU).

Methods

The effects of conventional management mode and management mode centered on the concept of “zero tolerance” on PU patients and nursing staff were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were evaluated by the general comfort questionnaire (GCQ), Generic Quality of Life Inventory 74 (GQOL-74), and pressure ulcer healing scale (PUSH). At the same time, the satisfaction of PU patients and nursing staff with different management modes was investigated.

Results

When comparing the conditions of patients under different management modes, it was found that the “zero tolerance” management mode can improve the comfort and quality of life of patients during hospitalization. Compared with the conventional management mode, the “zero tolerance” management mode can significantly improve the degree of pressure ulcer healing in patients. In addition, the “zero tolerance” management model can not only improve the satisfaction of patients with management but also improve the satisfaction of nursing staff with management.

Conclusion

Standardized management of PU patients with the concept of “zero tolerance” as the core can improve the health status and quality of life of patients, promote wound healing, and improve the satisfaction of patients and nurses with the management plan.

Critical care nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and practices of pressure injury prevention in China: A multicentric cross-sectional survey

Pressure injury is a serious and preventable problem in intensive care units. Translating guidelines into clinical practice can reduce the incidence of pressure injury. Identifying clinical status, barriers and facilitators contribute to guideline implementation. To identify the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of pressure injury prevention in Chinese critical care nurses. Secondary data were extracted from a multicentric clinical trial. Knowledge and attitudes toward pressure injury prevention were assessed by a fourteen-item questionnaire. The observed practices were recorded using a case report form. The report complies with the STROBE statement. A total of 950 critical care nurses in 15 hospitals from six provinces of China were investigated. A total of 53.1% of nurses received a median score of 6 points or less. Knowledge regarding the repositioning procedure, risk assessment, and heel pressure injury prevention was insufficient. Over 99% of nurses strongly or somewhat agreed that pressure injury prevention was very important and that they were willing to take measures to prevent pressure injury. A total of 27 781 patient days of pressure injury prevention practice were recorded. Repositioning was the most commonly used prevention measure, followed by support surfaces and prophylactic dressings. A combination of repositioning, support surface, and prophylactic dressing was lacking. Chinese critical nurses showed a low level of knowledge and a positive attitude toward pressure injury prevention. Practices of pressure injury prevention were unsatisfactory. There is a clear gap between the guidelines and clinical practices. The barrier (low-level knowledge) and facilitator (positive attitude) were identified in this study. According to these findings, strategies need to be developed to promote guideline implementation.

Repositioning Strategies to Prevent Pressure Injuries in the ICU: Integrative Review on Implementation Factors

OBJECTIVE

To survey the literature to gain insight into nursing facilitators of and barriers to implementation of positioning/turning strategies to prevent hospital-acquired pressure injuries (PIs) in adult critical care patients.

DATA SOURCES

This integrative review surveyed literature across databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Cochrane Library, and through hand searching.

STUDY SELECTION

Key terms included "pressure ulcer" OR "pressure sore*" OR "pressure injur*" AND "patient positioning" OR "turn" OR "turning" OR "patient repositioning" AND "critical care" OR "intensive care unit*" OR "inpatient*" AND "prevent*." Peer reviewed, English language articles published within the past 10 years were included. Inclusion and exclusion criteria narrowed the database yield to 432 articles. After title/abstract and full text review, 11 articles were included.

DATA EXTRACTION

Articles were appraised using the PRISMA flow diagram and the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice appraisal tool. Data was extracted and major themes were identified.

DATA SYNTHESIS

The identified themes were synthesized into factors that facilitated or impeded the nursing implementation of turning/repositioning strategies to prevent hospital-acquired PIs. Facilitators were the use of verbal cues and alerts to improve compliance and nursing education on PI prevention. Barriers to successful implementation were increased nursing workload or burden, lack of staff, and perceived hemodynamic instability in ICU patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Future interventions can be tailored to mitigate barriers and reinforce facilitators to improve nursing compliance with repositioning/turning strategies. Increased compliance with these measures could aid in PI prevention in adult ICU patients.

Multimode optical fiber specklegram smart bed sensor array

SIGNIFICANCE

Monitoring the movement and vital signs of patients in hospitals and other healthcare environments is a significant burden on healthcare staff. Early warning systems using smart bed sensors hold promise to relieve this burden and improve patient outcomes. We propose a scalable and cost-effective optical fiber sensor array that can be embedded into a mattress to detect movement, both sensitively and spatially.

AIM

Proof-of-concept demonstration that a multimode optical fiber (MMF) specklegram sensor array can be used to detect and image movement on a bed.

APPROACH

Seven MMFs are attached to the upper surface of a mattress such that they cross in a 3  ×  4 array. The specklegram output is monitored using a single laser and single camera and movement on the fibers is monitored by calculating a rolling zero-normalized cross-correlation. A 3  ×  4 image is formed by comparing the signal at each crossing point between two fibers.

RESULTS

The MMF sensor array can detect and image movement on a bed, including getting on and off the bed, rolling on the bed, and breathing.

CONCLUSIONS

The sensor array shows a high sensitivity to movement, which can be used for monitoring physiological parameters and patient movement for potential applications in healthcare settings.

Effectiveness of interventions to prevent pressure injury in adults admitted to intensive care settings: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of interventions to prevent pressure injury in adults admitted to intensive care settings.

REVIEW METHOD USED

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.

DATA SOURCES

Five databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase) were searched in mid-2019. Searches were updated (in April 2020) to year end 2019.

REVIEW METHODS

From an overarching systematic review and meta-analysis examining the effectiveness of pressure injury preventative interventions in adults admitted to acute hospital settings, trials conducted in intensive care were separated for an intensive care-specific synthesis. Two reviewers, with a third as an arbitrator, undertook study selection, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment. Included trials were grouped by intervention type for narrative synthesis and for random-effects meta-analysis using intention-to-treat data where appropriate.

RESULTS

Overall, 26 trials were included. Ten intervention types were found (support surfaces, prophylactic dressings, positioning, topical preparations, continence management, endotracheal tube securement, heel protection devices, medication, noninvasive ventilation masks, and bundled interventions). All trials, except one, were at high or unclear risk of bias. Four intervention types (endotracheal tube securement, heel protection devices, medication, and noninvasive ventilation masks) comprised single trials. Support surface trials were limited to type (active, reactive, seating, other). Meta-analysis was undertaken for reactive surfaces, but the intervention effect was not significant (risk ratio = 0.24, p = 0.12, I² = 51%). Meta-analyses demonstrated the effectiveness of sacral (risk ratio = 0.22, p < 0.001, I² = 0%) and heel (risk ratio = 0.31, p = 0.02; I² = 0%) prophylactic dressings for pressure injury prevention.

CONCLUSIONS

Only prophylactic sacral and heel dressings demonstrated effectiveness in preventing pressure injury in adults admitted to intensive care settings. Further intensive care-specific trials are required across all intervention types. To minimise bias, we recommend that all future trials are conducted and reported as per relevant guidelines and recommendations.

Prophylactic use of donut-shaped cushion to reduce sacral pressure injuries during open heart surgery

Background

Pressure injuries are likely to develop in the operating room due to the high temperature and humidity underneath the patients. This study was designed to reduce sacral pressure injuries using donut-shaped cushions on patients undergoing open heart surgery in a supine position for more than three hours.

Materials and Methods

Patients undergoing open heart surgery for more than three hours were randomly allocated. Depending on the allocation, either the donut-shaped cushion (donut group) or hydrophilic foam dressing (control group) was applied before draping. Patients were evaluated for the development of pressure injuries, National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP) stage, and injury size immediately after surgery, 48 hours, and seven days after surgery.

Results

Forty-five patients were enrolled in this study. Twenty-two were assigned to the donut group and 23 were assigned to the control group. Three patients developed pressure injuries of NPUAP stage I or higher. All injuries occurred in the control group, but there was no statistically significant difference (P = 0.083).

Conclusions

Patients who underwent cardiac surgery for more than three hours and used a donut-shaped cushion did not develop pressure injuries, although no statistical difference was noted. Specific preventative measures in the operating room may play a crucial role in preventing pressure injuries, and further research should be pursued.

Nursing interventions for pressure injury prevention among critically ill patients: A systematic review

AIM

To systemically synthesise the evidence on the most effective nursing interventions to prevent pressure injuries among critical care patients.

BACKGROUND

Although pressure injury (PI) prevention is a focus of nursing care in critical care units, hospital-acquired pressure injuries continue to occur in these settings.

DESIGN

A systematic review of literature guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) and Synthesis without meta-analysis (SWiM) guidelines.

METHODS

Four electronic databases were searched for relevant studies. Included studies were screened and then critically appraised using the appropriate Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tool. Data were analysed and reported using a narrative synthesis.

RESULTS

The review included 14 studies. Randomised controlled trials, quasi-experimental, case series and cross-sectional studies were included. The review identified four broad categories of interventions that are the most effective for preventing pressure injuries: (a) PI prevention bundles, (b) repositioning and the use of surface support, (c) prevention of medical device-related pressure injuries and (d) access to expertise. All the included studies reported a reduction in pressure injuries following the interventions; however, the strength of the evidence was rated from moderate to very low.

CONCLUSIONS

Nurses are well qualified to lead in the prevention of pressure injuries in critical care units. Every critically ill patient requires interventions to prevent pressure injuries, and the prevention of PIs should be considered a complex intervention. Nurses must plan and implement evidence-based care to prevent all types of pressure injuries, including medical device-related pressure injuries. Education and training programmes for nurses on PI prevention are important for prevention of pressure injuries.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Nursing interventions should consist of evidence-based 'bundles' and be adapted to patients' needs. To prevent pressure injuries among critically ill patients, nurses must be competent and highly educated and ensure fundamental strategies are routinely implemented to improve mobility and offload pressure.

Repositioning for pressure injury prevention in adults: An abridged Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

A pressure injury is an area of localised damage to the skin and underlying tissues. Patient repositioning is an important prevention strategy, as those with limited mobility are at increased risk of developing pressure injury.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the clinical and cost-effectiveness of repositioning schedules on the prevention of pressure injury in adults.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

DATA SOURCES

The Cochrane Wounds Specialised Register; the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials; MEDLINE (Ovid); Embase (Ovid) and Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature Plus (EBSCO) were searched in February 2019. No restrictions were applied to language or date of publication.

REVIEW METHODS

Studies were eligible if they were randomised controlled trials including cluster trials, published or unpublished, and undertaken in any healthcare setting that assessed the clinical and/or cost effectiveness of repositioning schedules for prevention of pressure injury in adults. Methodological quality of the studies was independently assessed by three authors. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using the I² statistic, and the pooled risk ratios along with their 95% confidence intervals were estimated using either fixed and random effects models, as indicated. Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation was used to appraise the certainty of evidence.

RESULTS

Eight eligible trials involving 3,941 participants published between 2004 and 2018 were identified. Trials compared either different repositioning frequencies or positioning regimens. Three trials (1074 participants) compared 2-hourly with 4-hourly repositioning (risk ratio 1.06, 95% confidence interval 0.80 to 1.41; I² = 45%). Two other trials (252 participants) compared a 30-degree tilt with a 90-degree tilt (risk ratio0.62, 95% confidence interval 0.10 to 3.97; I² =69%). Only two trials included economic analyses, both amongst nursing home residents. One study estimated the costs of repositioning to be Canadian dollars $11.05 and Canadian dollars $16.74 less per resident per day for the 3-hourly or 4-hourly regimens, respectively, when compared to 2-hourly regimen. The second study reported 3-hourly repositioning using a 30-degree tilt to cost €46.50 (95% confidence interval €1.25 to €74.60) less per patient in nursing time compared with 6-hourly repositioning with a 90-degree lateral rotation.

CONCLUSION

It remains unclear which repositioning frequencies or positions are most effective in preventing pressure injury in adults. There is limited evidence to support the cost effectiveness of repositioning frequencies and positions. Registration: Cochrane protocol published in 2012.

Human Wound and Its Burden: Updated 2020 Compendium of Estimates

Significance: Chronic wounds impact the quality of life (QoL) of nearly 2.5% of the total population in the United States and the management of wounds has a significant economic impact on health care. Given the aging population, the continued threat of diabetes and obesity worldwide, and the persistent problem of infection, it is expected that chronic wounds will continue to be a substantial clinical, social, and economic challenge. In 2020, the coronavirus disease (COVID) pandemic dramatically disrupted health care worldwide, including wound care. A chronic nonhealing wound (CNHW) is typically correlated with comorbidities such as diabetes, vascular deficits, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease. These risk factors make persons with CNHW at high risk for severe, sometimes lethal outcomes if infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (pathogen causing COVID-19). The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted several aspects of the wound care continuum, including compliance with wound care visits, prompting alternative approaches (use of telemedicine and creation of videos to help with wound dressing changes among others), and encouraging a do-it-yourself wound dressing protocol and use of homemade remedies/substitutions. Recent Advances: There is a developing interest in understanding how the social determinants of health impact the QoL and outcomes of wound care patients. Furthermore, addressing wound care in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of telemedicine options in the continuum of care. Future Directions: The economic, clinical, and social impact of wounds continues to rise and requires appropriate investment and a structured approach to wound care, education, and related research.