Pressure injury prevention measures: overview of systematic reviews

Abstract

Objective: Summarizing the evidence from systematic reviews regarding the comparison the effectiveness of interventions to prevent pressure injuries. Method: Overview of systematic reviews conducted in accordance with Cochrane guidelines. A search was performed in databases, repositories and systematic review registration sites. Results: 15 reviews were included in this overview. The sensitivity analysis showed a reduction in the incidence of pressure injuries with nutritional supplementation compared to the standard hospital diet (Relative Risk (RR) = 0.83; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.72–0.95). There was evidence of the superiority of constant low-pressure surfaces (RR = 0.38; 95% CI;0.24–0.61), alternating pressure devices (RR = 0.31; 95% CI:0.17–0.58) and alternative foams (RR = 0.40; 95% CI:0.21–0.74) when compared to the standard hospital mattress or standard foam. The use of a silicone cover reduced the incidence of pressure injuries by 75% (RR = 0.25; 95%CI:0.16–0.41) when compared to no cover. Conclusion: Although some interventions have been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of pressure injury, the evidence is limited or very limited and subject to change. Registration CRD42017064586.