PICO Statement
A pressure ulcer is one of the most common skin conditions experienced among acutely ill patients. However, it is also common among the elderly populace, particularly those who are above 70 years; in fact, it has created challenges among elderly patients, especially patients with limited mobility. Many healthcare practitioners consider it a hindrance to successfully quality healthcare provision when dealing with elderly patients. In this regard, it is important to explore pressure ulcers as among the medical challenges experienced in the contemporary society, identify pre-dominant factors and how it can be prevented or controlled.
PICOT Questions
Population
According to the National Health Service, the elderly populace is more vulnerable to pressure ulcers compared to the younger generation ("Pressure Ulcers"). This is because they have characteristic thinner skins that are also relatively drier compared to the younger populace. Besides, the elderly population is more vulnerable to pressure ulcers because they tend to generate skin cells on a relatively slower rate, hence, making their skins more susceptible to damage. In fact, many researchers agree that individuals who are 70 years and above are more fragile to pressure ulcers. Besides, poor nutrition, characterized by dehydration or conditions of limited moisture makes individuals vulnerable to pressure ulcers. Elderly individuals who have limited mobility are also more susceptible to pressure ulcers. Research shows that this is mainly because persons that have limited mobility tend to experience poor blood flow, hence affecting their skin conditions ("Pressure Ulcers"). This research focuses on elderly individuals who are more vulnerable to pressure ulcers as well as other individuals who may be experiencing
Intervention
One of the most common approaches that stakeholders have applied to facilitate reduction and prevention of pressure ulcers the reduction of pressure through reposition of the affected individual or patients; this strategy can also be applied among elderly population (Levine 603). It is effective among individuals from the age of 70 years who may not be in a position to move appropriately. There is need to ensure that elderly patients especially those who are bedbound are positioned at the angle of 30 degrees so that pressure is reduced. It is also imperative to ensure that elderly patients are not slid over the surface of the bed to reduce friction or shear friction that may arise (Levine 603). Reduction of pressure as an intervention strategy can also be achieved by using equipment or surfaces that provide support for the patients.
Comparison
The alternative approach that can be used to reduce or treat the occurrence of pressure ulcers is the application of surgery. Surgery is mainly applied in events where pressure ulcers consistently fail to heal or respond to other treatment mechanisms. The primary objective of the surgical process is to enhance hygiene of the pressure sores, appearance and the reduction of fluid which may occur through the wounds. Surgical processes are usually applied depending on the type as well as location of wounds. In most cases, the most common surgical technique involves the use of an individual’s muscle pad or tissue, a process scientifically referred as flap reconstruction. Patients subjected under this mode of treatment will be compared to patients that have been subjected into pressure reduction techniques.
Outcomes
One of the most apparent outcomes of reposition or pressure reduction techniques is that it facilitates the reduction of pressure on certain body parts considered more susceptible to pressure ulcers. It is expected that through regular and appropriate movement, one is in a position to relieve pain on certain body parts that have already been affected.
Timeline
Body reposition is an activity that can take a few minutes. However, to achieve the most effective results, the project may take relatively longer periods of time. This is because; it involves regular repositioning of the elderly patients until they indicate improvement. In summary, this exercise may take about 2 weeks; the first week may involve seeking elderly patients that are vulnerable to pressure ulcers followed by implementation of the suggested intervention mechanisms.
Works Cited
"Pressure Ulcers ." Pressure Ulcers. Web. 16 Apr. 2016. http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Pressure-ulcers/Pages/Introduction.aspx
Levine, Steven M., et al. "Current thoughts for the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers: using the evidence to determine fact or fiction." Annals of surgery 257.4 (2013): 603-608.
