Nurses need more training on medical device-related pressure ulcers, according to a prospective study published in Ostomy Wound Management.
Turkish researchers asked 606 nurses at six hospitals about their training about and daily practice with devices such as endotracheal tubes, tracheostomy tubes and blood pressure cuffs.
Questionnaires and observations showed nurses were provided at least 60% of the intervention needed to prevent pressure wounds when devices were in use. But nearly 20% of nurses indicated they didn’t think devices could cause pressure injuries.
“Comprehensive training programs on MDR pressure ulcers need to be organized in healthcare institutions to inform nurses and enhance their awareness about prevention of MDR pressure ulcers caused by medical devices,” wrote lead author, Ayişe Karadağ, Ph.D., a professor at the Koç University School of Nursing in Istanbul.
The National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel has said medical devices pose a “substantial” risk for wound formation. Regularly loosening or moving devices and adding protective dressings can help prevent ulcer formation.
From the December 01, 2017 Issue of McKnight's Long-Term Care News
