Enhancing Pressure Ulcer Prevention with Dermisplus Prevent Tubing

At Frontier Medical Group, we are dedicated to enhancing patient care and outcomes through innovative solutions for pressure area management. Dermisplus Prevent Tubing is a cutting-edge solution designed to reduce the risk and incidences of medical device-related pressure ulcers (MDRPUs) while improving the prevention and management of pressure ulcers in acute care settings. Approximately 34.5% of all hospital-acquired pressure ulcers are linked to medical devices, and it is believed that 80-95% of these ulcers can be avoided with a prevention and management strategy, like the aSSKINg care bundle. This blog post will examine how Dermisplus Prevent Tubing can significantly benefit patients and elevate the quality of care in acute settings.

‘A DRPU [MDRPU] involves interaction with a device or object that is in direct or indirect contact with skin, or implanted under the skin, causing focal and localised forces that deform the localised and deep underlying tissues. A DRPU, which is caused by a device or object, is distinct from a PU, which is caused primarily by body weight forces. The localised nature of device forces results in the appearance of skin and deeper tissue damage that mimics that of the device in shape and distribution.’

Gefen et al, 2020

In acute care settings, patients are often at increased risk of developing pressure ulcers due to factors such as immobility, medical devices, and prolonged periods of bed rest. Medical device-related pressure ulcers, in particular, pose a significant challenge for healthcare providers, as they can lead to pain, discomfort, and complications for patients. Dermisplus Prevent Tubing is specifically designed to address this challenge by providing an effective and easy-to-use solution for reducing the risk of MDRPUs.

Pressure damage significantly affects patient outcomes, with pressure ulcers being the leading cause of harm in the NHS. They frequently extend hospital stays by 2 to 3 days, disrupting patient flow in acute settings, particularly during the high-volume winter periods.

Here are some key ways in which Dermisplus Prevent Tubing can support healthcare professionals in the prevention of MDRPUs:

Pressure Redistribution

Dermisplus Prevent Tubing is equipped with pressure redistribution gel pads that help distribute pressure evenly and reduce the risk of pressure injuries at sites where medical devices can contact the skin. By providing pressure redistribution and support, Dermisplus Prevent Tubing is clinically proven to help alleviate pressure, minimising the risk of MDRPUs and promoting skin integrity.

Skin Protection

The tri-block polymer gel pressure redistribution gel pads of Dermisplus Prevent Tubing create a protective barrier between the at-risk skin and medical devices, reducing the risk of skin breakdown and irritation. The gel pads conform to the contours of the skin, providing optimal support and comfort for patients while minimising the risk of MDRPUs.

Easy Application

Dermisplus Prevent Tubing is designed for ease of use, allowing healthcare professionals to quickly and securely apply the tubing to medical devices without causing discomfort or disruption to patients. The tubing can be easily removed and replaced as needed, making it a convenient and practical solution for pressure ulcer prevention in acute care settings.

Cost-Effective Solution

By incorporating Dermisplus Prevent Tubing into pressure ulcer prevention protocols, healthcare professionals can effectively reduce the incidence of MDRPUs and associated complications, ultimately leading to cost savings and improved patient outcomes. Utilising Dermisplus Prevent Tubing proactively aids in preventing pressure ulcers, minimising avoidable harm, and potentially reducing the need for future wound care treatments. All of this helps to reduce the burden of pressure damage on healthcare providers and minimise any discharge delays this winter.

Dermisplus Prevent Tubing is a valuable tool for healthcare professionals in acute settings, offering an effective and proactive solution for reducing the risk of MDRPUs and enhancing pressure ulcer prevention. By incorporating Dermisplus Prevent Tubing into your care protocols, you can provide optimal skin protection, pressure redistribution, and comfort for patients, ultimately improving the quality of care and patient outcomes.

If you are interested in learning more about how Dermisplus Prevent Tubing can support pressure ulcer prevention in your acute care setting, please contact us. Together, let's elevate the standard of care and enhance patient safety with the power of innovative technology.