Pressure ulcers are largely preventable and, if they occur, it is regarded as a disappointing result of the quality of care being provided.  Pressure ulcers occur in the frail and elderly people and are caused by continuous pressure on a particular area of the body - with bony prominences such as elbows and heels being particularly at risk - shearing forces or friction.   This leads to damage to the skin and tissue underneath.  Pressure ulcers may have a minimal effect with just a slightly reddened area of skin or can be very serious leading to full skin thickness ulcers and associated muscle and bone injury.

DjHS participates in the statewide survey, Pressure Ulcer Point Prevalence Survey (PUPPS).   In the 2006 survey, DjHS recorded a prevalence of 0% of pressure areas whereas the State wide mean prevalence was 17.6%.  Although the number of our patients reviewed was small (13) this result was a good outcome, particularly as 14.3% were regarded as a high risk.  In order to achieve these results DjHS has certain strategies in place to help prevent pressure ulcers.  These include a risk screening on all residents in Grant Lodge as well as assessing any patients considered to be at risk.   New mattresses have also been purchased for the acute wards which comply with the PUPPS standards.

During the forthcoming year, DjHS intends to maintain its excellent record with new policies being developed for pressure care management in Grant Lodge and further mattresses being purchased.