Meeting targets in pressure ulcer prevention in the community by collaborating with industry.

Abstract

This article describes how a community health-care trust achieved a reduction in acquired pressure ulcers. Commissioning for Quality and Innovation 2014/15 guidance states that provider organisations should work with their partners across their local health and social care system to address the causes of pressure ulcers and reduce their prevalence, regardless of source. Gloucestershire Care Service NHS Trust was challenged to reduce the number of acquired pressure ulcers by 17% in 2013-14. The challenge for the three members of the tissue viability team was to train the qualified and unqualified staff within seven community hospitals and district nurse teams from 85 GP practices, covering a population of 600 000 within 4 months. Staff shortages and a lack of venues available meant that an adaptive educational approach was necessary. A dedicated programme of educational support from both the tissue viability nurse and an industry partner enabled the delivery of a wide range of educational materials to staff across the county. As a result of this partnership working, there was a reduction of category 3 and 4 pressure ulcers, and an increased awareness of the initial stages of pressure ulcer development demonstrated by an increase in grade 2 pressure ulcers.