Best Practice Statement
Pressure ulcer prevention - November 2005 (PDF, 305K, 1.26 mins)
About this Best Practice Statement
This best practice statement was initially produced by NHS Quality Improvement Scotland in May 2002 to offer guidance to health care staff and carers, caring for individuals at risk of developing pressure ulcers in hospital, at home or in care homes. In 2005, the statement was reviewed and updated by the working group in consultation with the Association of Tissue Viability Nurse Specialists (Scotland) (NATVNS) listed in Appendix 6.
Pressure ulcers are areas of tissue death usually located over a bony prominence, caused by external forces of pressure, shear and/or friction. These may be further exacerbated by complications arising from the individual s physical condition, such as altered nutrition and excess moisture.
This document aims to provide staff, patients and carers with a framework which can be utilised when making decisions relating to the early identification of individuals at risk of pressure ulcer development or identification of skin changes. The statement does not give specific details relating to equipment selection as it is intended to be used in conjunction with local policies and guidelines. The statement has been developed to ensure that carers across all care settings, primary, secondary and care homes are provided with relevant and accurate information to assist them in their decision-making when caring for patients at risk of developing pressure ulcers. As part of the review process the working group developed an audit tool which is enclosed (Appendix 5).
The best practice statement for the prevention of pressure ulcers should be used in conjunction with the best practice statement for the treatment/management of pressure ulcers. Utilisation of both documents will ensure best practice is being achieved across all care settings and the statements could be used in this case as a measure for quality in pressure ulcer prevention.