A clinical trial of the use of silicone dressings to prevent pressure ulcers in immobile patients

Abstract

British Journal of DermatologyVolume 183, Issue 2 p. e45-e45 Plain Language Summary Free Access A clinical trial of the use of silicone dressings to prevent pressure ulcers in immobile patients First published: 02 August 2020 https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.19279 AboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onEmailFacebookTwitterLinked InRedditWechat Abstract Pressure ulcers, or pressure sores, develop where there is prolonged contact between weight-bearing areas on the skin surface and an underlying, often hard surface. It is a problem that is seen in high-risk settings such as intensive care units or in the care of immobile elderly individuals. This work was carried out by investigators in Germany. The study reported in this article reflects a growing realisation that dressings applied to sites where pressure ulcers can develop, such as the base of the spine or the heels, can help to prevent their development. The study was a clinical trial that compared the effect of applying silicone-based dressings to at-risk sites on the development of pressure ulcers with standard nursing care; the investigators also assessed the likelihood of pressure ulcers developing. The dressings used were multi-layered soft silicone foam dressings designed for the sites to be tested – the heel and the sacrum (at the base of the spine). At the end of the study a total of 422 patients could be assessed – their mean age was 63 years. The work showed that the silicone dressings reduced the pressure ulcer risk in those patients who had been treated. It supports the suspicion that prevention of pressure ulcers through applying suitable dressings to at-risk body sites, in addition to standard nursing care (such as regular turning of the patient, and provision of cushioning between the at-risk area and any underlying surface), is an effective strategy for immobilised patients. Linked Article: Hahnel et al. Br J Dermatol 2020; 183:256–264. Volume183, Issue2August 2020Pages e45-e45 RelatedInformation