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Thursday 27 February 2014

Prevalence of Pressure Ulcers in a Critical Situation by Alginate Dressings

Most commonly seen in patients who are elderly, bedridden, or those who suffer from decreased circulation; any conditions that decrease mobility leading to prolonged pressure on a body area can increase the risk of a pressure ulcers. Treatment of pressure ulcers includes removal of pressure, topical alginate dressings to spur cell growth and prevent infections, and use of antibiotics. Present 17 percent to 32 percent of patients, a key concern for those suffering from pressure ulcers is, Osteomyelitis, an infection of the bone that can result in decreased healing rate, increased length of stay, and amputation.

Nearly 72% of all patients hospitalized for pressure ulcers are over the age of 65 and the prevalence of pressure ulcers in a critical care setting for the U.S. is 22 percent.
Even more surprising is the fact that “during the first 2 weeks of admission alone hospital acquired pressure ulcers occur in approximately 9% of hospitalized patients.” The high
prevalence of pressure ulcers impacting an elderly population creates a large burden on the US healthcare system, leaving a clear opportunity to improve outcomes and reduce costs via the combination of wound care products and care protocols.

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