A Single Long-Term Acute Care Hospital Experience with a Pressure Ulcer Prevention Program.

PURPOSE: The occurrence of pressure ulcers (PrUs) challenges care facilities. Few studies report PrU reduction efforts in long-term acute care (LTAC). This study described the PrU reduction efforts of a single, LTAC facility using the Medline Pressure Ulcer Prevention Program (mPUPP).

DESIGN: This study was a quasi-experimental, quality improvement project, with pre- and postmeasurement design.

METHODS: Outcomes were tracked for 24 months. The mPUPP was implemented in month 11. Education for caregivers was provided through an interactive web-based suite. In addition, all Patient Care Technicians attended a 4-week 1-hour inservice. New skin care products were implemented. The facility also implemented an algorithm for treatment of wounds.

FINDINGS: There was a significant reduction in the mean monthly hospital-acquired PrU (nPrU) rate when preprogram is compared to postprogram.

CONCLUSIONS: Sustainable nPrU reduction can be achieved with mPUPP.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: LTAC hospitals could expect to reduce nPrU with education and incentive of caregivers.