Using the SKIN Bundle to prevent pressure ulcers

Whitlock, Joy

Joy Whitlock is quality and safety improvement manager; Sian Rowlands is solicitor and clinical governance manager primary care; Gemma Ellis is consultant nurse in critical care and Cardiff University lecturer; Alison Evans is pressure ulcer programme manager and Cardiff University lecturer; all at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.

Nursing Times 107(35):p 21, September 6, 2011.

A systematic approach helped to reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers at a health board in Wales, and changed staff views that they were inevitable in some patients

In this article…

Cost and prevalence of pressure ulcers
Development of the SKIN Bundle and how it can be used to help prevent pressure ulcers
How the SKIN Bundle was implemented at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board

Abstract

Whitlock J et al (2011) Using the SKIN Bundle to prevent pressure ulcers. Nursing Times; 107: 35, 20–23. Every year up to 20% of patients in acute care in England and Wales are affected by pressure ulcers, which can lead to serious harm and death if left untreated. This article discusses the development of the SKIN Bundle, a pressure ulcer prevention initiative, and its implementation at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, and how it is being used to help prevent pressure ulcers and improve patient care.