Review: Foam-based, constant low-pressure mattresses are better than standard hospital mattresses for reducing pressure ulcers

摘要

Data sources: Studies were identified by searching the Specialized Trials Register of the Cochrane Wounds Group (to January 2004), containing searches in MEDLINE, EMBASE/Excerpta Medica, and CINAHL; the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Issue 3, 2004); hand-searching conference proceedings; scanning references of articles; and contacting experts in the field.nnStudy selection and assessment: Studies in any language and in any setting were selected if they were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated low-technology (low-tech), constant low-pressure (CLP) surfaces (standard foam mattresses [SFMs], alternative foam mattresses [AFMs]; gel-, fiber-, air-, water-, or bead-filled mattresses; and sheepskin), high-technology (high-tech) surfaces (alternating pressure [AP] mattresses, air fluidized beds, and low air-loss beds), and other surfaces (turning beds or frames, wheelchair cushions, operating table overlays, and limb protectors). Criteria used to assess study quality included allocation concealment and blinding.nnOutcomes: Incidence of PUs, grades of new PUs, and cost-effectiveness.