The Creation of a Critical Care Admission Pressure Injury Prevention Cart to Reduce Hospital-Acquired Pressure Injuries

Abstract

Background: Critically ill and ventilated patients require prone position therapy and prolonged ventilator times placing them at risk for hospital acquired conditions, such as pressure injuries. With the emergence of the pandemic and additional surges, the rate of pressure injuries increased. The goal of this performance improvement initiative was to reduce hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs) related to COVID-19 on patients requiring Critical Care. Methods : The Critical Care team created a Critical Care Admission Pressure Injury Prevention Cart containing preventative dressings for all pressure areas at risk. Results : Prior to the implementation of the Critical Care Admission Pressure Injury Prevention Cart in January 2022, the Critical Care Unit reported fifty-six hospital acquired pressure injuries. From January 2022 through September 2022, there was a 98% reduction with only one acquired pressure injury identified. The cart was successful in the Critical Care Unit, therefore, it was also implemented in all high acuity areas of the hospital. Conclusions : The cart initiative was developed by a multidisciplinary team, consisting of nursing, the wound and skin team, respiratory care, and leadership working together towards the goal of patient safety and pressure injury prevention.