Risk Assessment Tools for Pressure Ulcers

Article Abstract:

Patients at risk for pressure ulcer development should be assessed using tools that have validity, those that will identify the same people each time they are used. Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR) guidelines recommend that risk prediction be part of pressure ulcer prevention programs. The Braden Scale is a summated rating scale which has 6 subscales to measure clinical determinants of prolonged or intense pressure or tissue pressure tolerance. The Norton Scale is simple and easy to use. It has 5 parameters to assess, including mental status, physical condition, mobility, activity and incontinence. The Gosnell Scale is a modification of the Norton Scale and is focused on descriptors intended to be helpful in rating risk factors and to incorporate nutrition factors. It has been used with acute care and geriatric nursing home patients. The population of those aged 60 and above is increasing faster than the population overall. Research shows pressure ulcer development to be a factor in higher mortality rates in elderly people. Prevention methods are discussed.

United States, Aged, Elderly, Research, Medical statistics, Health risk communication

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Biomedical impedance as a discriminator of pressure ulcer risk

Article Abstract:

Bioelectrical impedance analysis may be a useful means of assessing a patient's risk for pressure ulcers. The precise factors which cause these lesions is not completely understood, and traditional risk assessment does not identify factors which may produce pressure ulcers. Studies using bioelectrical impedance provide direct measure of tissue at potential pressure ulcer sites. Nutritional and other metabolic factors may also affect pressure ulcer risk.

Evaluation, Impedance, Bioelectric, Bioelectric impedance

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Skin care in the frail, elderly, dependent, incontinent patient

Article Abstract:

The importance of skin care in incontinent patients is recognized, though little research has actually been performed. Reviews of available information have found a variety of skin care management protocols as well as a growing emphasis on prevention of pressure ulcers through nutrition and proper positioning. More research on the dermatological aspects of incontinence is needed to address problems specific to the frail elderly.

Care and treatment, Urinary incontinence, Frail elderly, Fecal incontinence, Rash (Dermatology), Rash

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