Devices for the prevention of heel pressure ulcers
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An exploration of the use of devices for the prevention of heel pressure ulcers
IRAS ID
232057
Contact name
Clare E Greenwood
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Leeds
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 29 days
Research summary
There are numerous different devices available designed for the prevention of heel pressure ulcers (PU)s, such as wedges, or boots that float or cushion the heel, however the evidence base for these devices is poor, both in terms of their clinical effectiveness but also how they are actually used and perceived in clinical practice when individual patient preferences, nursing knowledge, resources and care environment are taken into account.\nThis research is an observational study of care practices that will take place at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust within three orthopaedic or elderly care wards that keep any of these devices as stock items. Between four and six observations, each lasting approximately four hours, will take place over different shift patterns on each ward, over a maximum of a two week period. A bay of patients with at least one patient deemed at risk of developing a PU and the staff that deliver their care will be observed. The aim is to establish if patients at risk of developing heel PUs are being supplied with and using these devices in order to prevent heel PUs and what factors influence their use. It will also aim to establish if there are any other contextual factors that might constrain or support their use in day to day practice. Following the observations medical and nursing notes will be reviewed to establish PU risk factors and what care has been planned. The observed staff will be invited to be interviewed to establish how and why they choose and implement pressure ulcer preventative equipment/devices, and their awareness of what equipment/devices are available within the ward and wider through the trust.\n
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/YH/0272
Date of REC Opinion
18 Sep 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion