The experiences of operating room teams working with real-time feedback of interface pressure to prevent pressure injuries—A feasibility study

Abstract

BackgroundSurgical patients have an increased risk of sustaining a pressure induced injury. Novel technology has made it possible to objectively measure and visualize the interface pressure between the patient's tissue and the support surface in real time. The aim of this study was to describe operating room team members’ experiences of working with a pressure mapping system as a means to prevent intraoperative and postoperative recovery unit pressure injuries, and to describe the interface pressures and the incidence of observed pressure injuries. MethodsWe used a descriptive design with a qualitative approach to investigate the operating room team members’ experiences of working with real-time feedback of interface pressure, and a quantitative approach to investigate the interface pressures and the incidence of observed pressure injuries. The technology was used during 49 surgeries. ResultsThe system increased clinician awareness and was considered beneficial in pressure injury prevention activities. There were wide variations in the interface pressures that measured from < 50 to 255 mmHg. Eight patients developed blanchable erythema during surgery and five other patients developed category 1 pressure injuries two hours postoperatively. ConclusionsThis study shows that the new technology could play an important role in preventing pressure injuries during surgery in the future.