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Effects of warming therapy on pressure ulcers - a randomized trial

Scott, E.M.; Leaper, D.J.; Clark, M.; Kelly, P.J.

Authors

E.M. Scott

D.J. Leaper

M. Clark

P.J. Kelly



Abstract

Postoperative pressure ulcers are a common and expensive problem. Intraoperative hypothermia also is a common problem and may have a connection with impaired tissue viability. Researchers in this study hypothesized that intraoperative control of hypothermia may reduce the incidence of postoperative pressure ulcers. A randomized clinical trial (n = 338) was used to test the effects of using forced air warming therapy versus standard care. Results indicated an absolute risk reduction in pressure ulcers of 4.8% (ie, 10.4% to 5.6%) with a relative risk reduction of 46% in patients who received warming therapy. Although not reaching statistical significance, the clinical significance of almost halving the pressure ulcer rate is important. A correlation between body temperature and postoperative pressure ulcers was established.

Citation

Scott, E., Leaper, D., Clark, M., & Kelly, P. (2001). Effects of warming therapy on pressure ulcers - a randomized trial. AORN Journal, 73(5), 921-938. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0001-2092%2806%2961744-4

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date May 1, 2001
Deposit Date May 16, 2007
Journal AORN Journal
Print ISSN 0001-2092
Publisher Wiley
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 73
Issue 5
Pages 921-938
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/s0001-2092%2806%2961744-4