The Most Effective Time Interval for Repositioning Subjects at Risk of Pressure Sore Development: A Literature Review

Abstract

This review analyzed 17 studies to establish the repositioning time interval that is most effective in preventing pressure sores in at‐risk individuals. Because the studies did not provide strong evidence to support any specific time interval, we suggest that the commonly recommended 2‐hour interval be the starting point for individual turning schedules. The 2‐hour interval should be shortened or expanded according to each individual's susceptibility to pressure sores.

Pressure Sore and Skin Tear Prevention and Treatment During a 10-Month Program

“…Maklebust (1999) advocates pressure relief prevention and treatment measures using foam overlays, air overlays, sheepskin, foam cubes/mattresses, egg crate foam, gel cushions, and/or low-airloss beds. Buss, Halfens, and Abu-Saad (2002) recommend starting at 2-hour intervals as most effective for repositioning those at risk for pressure sores, and shortening or lengthening that interval to accommodate individual needs. Thomas, Goode, Lamaster, Tennyson, and Parnell (1999) studied 37 subjects treated for skin tears and compared opaque foam dressings with transparent film dressings.…”

Physical activity levels and torso orientations of hospitalized patients at risk of developing a pressure injury: An observational study

“…A pressure injury is defined as 'localised injury to the skin and/or underlying tissue usually over a bony prominence, as a result of pressure, or pressure in combination with shear'. The most common of these are various mattresses or overlays, 5,9,10 position changes 9,11,12 and the widespread use of screening tools for the assessment of pressure ulcer risk. 3 Estimates of pressure injury incidence in hospitalized patients have ranged from under 3% to over 30%.…”

“…[4][5][6] Furthermore, pressure injuries result in an increased length of stay (LOS), 7 with the economic cost of pressure injuries among hospitalized public patients in Australia, during the period 2001-2002, estimated at (AUD) $285 million 8 A variety of methods have been used in the attempt to prevent pressure injuries. The most common of these are various mattresses or overlays, 5,9,10 position changes 9,11,12 and the widespread use of screening tools for the assessment of pressure ulcer risk. [13][14][15] One of the biggest questions surrounding pressure injury prevention relates to repositioning.…”