Prevention / Intervention

Screening tools can be a cost effective means of identifying patients who are at risk for developing pressure ulcers. These tools identify specific areas that need to be addressed and watched closely. After areas of risk are identified, targeted interventions can be put into place that can further reduce the risk of pressure ulcer development.

Knowledge of pressure ulcer prevention strategies is vital. Implementation of targeted prevention strategies may be dependent on the areas that have been acknowledged to be at risk. Education is the essential piece of pressure ulcer prevention. This includes education for staff at all levels, as well as patients and caregivers. Staff education should include information on the facilities specific policies and pressure ulcer prevention program. Staff should be educated on the risk assessment tool used, excellent skin assessment skills, how to consult the wound care specialist if...

As I learn the tools of my trade it will be important for me to know which patients are more likely to be susceptible to pressure ulcers so that I can do the best that I can to try and prevent them. Since prevention and/or early detection are the keys it is important for me to know as much about pressure ulcers as possible. I need to know how to prevent them, how to treat them and what to look for when doing risk assessments. I don't feel that a person can know too much about something, so my goal is learn as much as possible so that I can be the best nurse possible.
References

Avent, Y. (2010). Prevention Spotlight: Pressure Ulcers," Nursing Made Incredibly Easy,

8(5), 21-29.