Effects of education on the prevention of pressure sores.

A controlled study was done to evaluate the efficacy of written guidelines on the prevention of pressure sores. Thirty-three hospitals in Thailand were enrolled from February to April 1991. The incidence of pressure sores in the 6 week control period was 8.7 per cent compared to 6.5 per cent in the study phase. Reduction of the complication was found in all medical, surgical and intensive care departments. Practices on the prevention of pressure sores by nurses were significantly improved regarding: positioning, seating, not pulling, and bed-bathing of patients. Massaging the immobilized parts and the application of supporting devices were not increased by the education programme. This method of education is simple and appropriate for hospitals in Thailand.