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Effects of Warming Therapy on Pressure Ulcers—a Randomized Trial
Author(s) -
Scott Eileen M.,
Leaper David J.,
Clark Michael,
Kelly Peter J.
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
aorn journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.222
H-Index - 43
eISSN - 1878-0369
pISSN - 0001-2092
DOI - 10.1016/s0001-2092(06)61744-4
Subject(s) - medicine , statistical significance , randomized controlled trial , incidence (geometry) , hypothermia , anesthesia , clinical trial , clinical significance , surgery , physics , optics
Postoperative pressure ulcers are a common and expensive problem. Intraoperative hypothermia also is a common problem and may have a connection with impaired tissue viability. Researchers in this study hypothesized that intraoperative control of hypothermia may reduce the incidence of postoperative pressure ulcers. A randomized clinical trial (n = 338) was used to test the effects of using forced air warming therapy versus standard care. Results indicated an absolute risk reduction in pressure ulcers of 4.8% (ie, 10.4% to 5.6%) with a relative risk reduction of 46% in patients who received warming therapy. Although not reaching statistical significance, the clinical significance of almost halving the pressure ulcer rate is important. A correlation between body temperature and postoperative pressure ulcers was established. AORN J 73 (May 2001) 921–938.