Stanford Hospital starts key study on pressure ulcer prevention

Leaf Healthcare is pleased to announce that a key study on pressure ulcer prevention has started at Stanford Hospital.

Hospital-acquired pressure ulcers (HAPUs) are a major threat to quality healthcare. Research by the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality shows that pressure ulcers cost the nation's healthcare system over $11 billion per year. Since pressure ulcers (also known as bedsores) are considered preventable, they do not qualify for reimbursement by the government and other payers. In addition to the financial burden, pressure ulcers are also a source of significant morbidity and mortality for patients.

It is well established that frequent patient turning can prevent pressure ulcers. "The value of turning patients is well-known, ever since Florence Nightingale started this nursing practice over a hundred years ago. However, it's traditionally been difficult to monitor how effectively this therapeutic intervention is actually practiced," said David Pickham, PhD, RN, Director of Research, Patient Care Services, Stanford Health Care; Clinical Assistant Professor, Medicine, Stanford University. "This study will provide us with the clinical data that is required to more appropriately coordinate and optimize patient turning efforts in order to prevent pressure ulcers."

The study, which is being conducted on two intensive care units at Stanford Hospital, will help determine the optimal patient turning parameters to prevent hospital-acquired pressure ulcers. This randomized controlled study will utilize Leaf technology to coordinate and electronically document all patient movement and turning.

Stanford Hospital consistently ranks as one of the best hospitals in the nation by US News and World Report and serves as the primary teaching hospital for the Stanford University School of Medicine.

The Leaf system is comprised of a small, lightweight, wearable sensor that electronically monitors a patient's position and movements. Data collected by the sensor is communicated wirelessly to central monitoring stations or mobile devices so that caregivers can check on patient position and movement. The system provides alerts when necessary to ensure that all patients wearing a Leaf Sensor are repositioned according to their prescribed turning schedules to reduce incidence of pressure ulcers. The device has been cleared for sale by FDA 510(k).