Abstract: Evaluating the safety and performance of a powered gel-support surface system in effectively reducing HAPUs/HAPIs in the acute care setting as part of a bundle of care

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Hospital-acquired pressure ulcers (HAPUs) and hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs) are a significant challenge for both patients and caregivers, as they can increase discomfort, length of hospital stays, cost, morbidity and, ultimately, mortality. Hospital support surfaces are an important element in pressure injury prevention and treatment. This observational study aimed to evaluate the safety and performance of the IsoTour powered gel support surface system as a part of a bundle of care in the context of pressure injury treatment and prevention.

A retrospective survey-based study was conducted, collecting feedback from healthcare professionals who had used the IsoTour hospital support surface system in the last six months. The study observed the incidence rate of new pressure ulcers and tracked pressure ulcer severity during treatment.

The study included 313 patient cases from nine countries including Canada, France, Germany, Kuwait, Poland, United Kingdom and the United States. A statistically significant proportion of patients entering the care setting with existing pressure ulcers experienced a reduction in severity (p < 0.001). Further, 95.8% of the total patient pool did not develop a new pressure ulcer by the end of treatment (p < 0.05). Additionally, 98% of healthcare providers rated the usability of the IsoTour system as 'Acceptable' or better.

The use of the IsoTour hospital mattress, in its powered configuration, when implemented as part of a comprehensive care strategy, can help treat and prevent pressure ulcers and ease the burden of healthcare providers. The IsoTour system demonstrated a significant reduction in the incidence of new pressure ulcers and improvement in the severity of existing pressure ulcers.