Perioperative Pressure Ulcer Prevention

Evidence-based practice for preventing operating room (OR) acquired pressure ulcers is still evolving. While pressure ulcers incidence rates continue to rise little is known about the perioperative nurses role in prevention. Several studies have identified the OR as a potential cause of pressure ulcers, though risk assessment tools, or specific interventions for prevention have not been standardized. This session will review the science behind the contributing factors, prevention measures, and early assessment of perioperative pressure ulcers, and describe the valuable role of the perioperative nurse. Identification of high-risk patients and appropriate interventions based on clinical research studies will be explained.

This course expires on May 15, 2010.

The approval number for this course is: #01208.

• Identify the incidence, cost, and risk factors associated with perioperative acquired pressure ulcers
• Illustrate the pathophysiology and types of tissue injuries during the surgical procedure
• Compare risk factors that predispose the surgical patient to nerve or pressure injuries
• Characterize the perioperative nurse and WOC nurse role in assessment and prevention of PPrU and nerve injuries

This continuing nursing education activity was approved by the Tennessee Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.