Simple preventative techniques can drastically reduce the rate of hospital-acquired decubitus ulcers

Though surely an unanticipated complication, hospital-acquired decubitus ulcers (also referred to as: pressure ulcers, pressure sores or bed sores) remain a tremendous problem for patients and the hospital itself.  Acknowledging the negative impact of decubitus ulcers, Texas Arlington Memorial Hospital set out to create a program to reduce the rate of hospital-acquired decubitus ulcers.  Though hardly high-tech, the hospital cut the rate of decubitus ulcers by 63% utilizing the following techniques:

• Screening all new admission for decubitus ulcers
• Encouraging patients who are physically able to use the toilet as opposed to diapers
• Empowering all hospital staff: physicians, CNA’s, RN’s and others to identify and document all signs of early stage decubitus ulcers when caring for patients
• Implementing extra skin checks for physically disabled patients or those who constantly use medical equipment like oxygen masks or tubing
• Analyzing all patient records on a quarterly basis to determine which preventative techniques are working and those that are not

Related:

Bed Sore FAQ: Bed Sore In Hospital

Nursing Homes Abuse Blog: Hospital Bed Sores

Bed Sore FAQ: Prevention

Nursing Home Injury Laws: Texas

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