Risk Identification
Pressure ulcers can develop in a short period of
time so it is essential that the risk factors associated with
pressure ulcers are understood. A person may be at risk of a
pressure ulcer developing if one or more elements exist.
These elements are:
- Incontinence.
- Limited mobility (unable to reposition themselves).
- Poor nutritional (hydration) status.
- Skin is in continuous contact with a surface that does not
assist with pressure area relief.
Once a person has been identified as at risk
of developing a pressure ulcer (or who has a pressure ulcer), use a
system which encourages staff to easily identify who is at risk.
For example utilise ‘at risk’ cards in notes, visual cues at bed
area/on door/ name boards, share information at staff handovers,
safety briefings etc. Using a system which makes it easy for staff
to identify quickly who is at risk of developing a pressure ulcer,
will assist staff to focus their efforts on who needs pressure
ulcer prevention care.
It
is a good idea that staff and patients/residents are involved in
the development of such a system, as it is more likely to be
accepted. We know from our testing of visual cues through the
National Tissue Viability Programme, that staff have asked
patients/residents and their relatives for their thoughts when
developing a risk identification system. Various cues have
been tested from pictures of feathers, puppies, small human figures
etc.
For more information on risk identification
see the pressure
ulcer prevention change package.
