Under Pressure: Preventative Skin Measures for Patients with Limited Mobility [Poster]

Abstract

Skin breakdown occurrence in patients with limited mobility increases mortality and contributes to lengthy hospital stays. It is estimated that 2.5 million pressure ulcers occur each year in the United States. The purpose of this evidence-based practice project is to identify interventions related to decreasing the incidence of skin breakdown. Literature search included CINAHL Plus, Cochrane Review, EBSCO Host, ProQuest, and Medline. Literature indicates barrier cream, turning at intervals, and using specialty beds can help decrease the incidence of skin breakdown. Eight randomized control trials, three systematic reviews of randomized control trials, two single correlational studies, one quantitative study, two systematic reviews of correlational studies, and one single descriptive study were found. While many factors have been found to decrease incidence, the rate of skin breakdown remains too high, indicating further research is needed. [Poster]