A retrospective study of the use of specialty beds in the medical and surgical intensive care units of a tertiary care facility.

A retrospective chart audit of 55 patients placed on specialty beds in the medical and surgical intensive care units of a tertiary care hospital during 1989 was performed to establish criteria for placement on specialty beds. A modified Knoll Assessment of Pressure Ulcer Potential tool was used to determine which risk factors were common among the patients. Mean total risk scores was 21.15 with a standard deviation of 4.74. Significant correlations were found between seven of the eight risk factors and the total risk score. A high total score on the modified Knoll tool indicates a need for placement on specialty beds.