PRESSURE SORE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT: OUTCOME - BASED FINDINGS WITH THE BAZOOKA ® SYSTEM

By S. George Oakes, PhD

Eden Prairie Minnesota

The purpose of this presentation is to evaluate a specialty bed in terms of new pressure wound formation, the healing of existing wounds, patient comfort end ease of healthcare giver use. This report marks the first evaluation of a specialty bed in terms of each of these outcomes.

A retrospective study of immobile and/or elderly patients deemed at risk for pressure sore development as well as patients with existing pressure wounds placed on the Bazooka (Innovative Medical Systems, Inc. Manchester, New Hampshire) was conducted. Records of 55 patients were evaluated for the prevention of new pressure wound formation, the healing of existing wounds, patient comfort and ease of healthcare giver use. This study marks the first evaluation of a specialty bed in terms of each of these outcomes. In addition, negative patient and caregiver responses were also evaluated. Previous exposure of the patients to the surfaces included standard hospital mattresses, foam overlays and a variety of specialty beds. The average patient age in the study was 60.9 years of age, the average patient weight was 141.3 pounds and the average length of stay on the Bazooka ® was 24.6 days.

The following results were observed on the Bazooka: the support system prevented new wound formation in 98% of the patients, 88% of the patients showed unproved healing of existing wounds, 94% of the patients showed improved comfort on the Bazooka and 100% of the healthcare givers noted the ease of use of the Bazooka. Only 32% of the healthcare givers and 20% of the patients made minor negative comments concerning the product.

It is concluded that the Bazooka:

  1. appeared effective in preventing pressure sore formation in patients at risk for pressure ulcer formation regardless of the etiology of their problems;
  2. appeared effective in aiding the healing of existing pressure sores;
  3. produced greater comfort for the patient than other types of specialty beds including those costing much more to use and,
  4. was determined to be easy-to-use by the healthcare givers during their nursing and treatment regimens. These features of the Bazooka coupled to its portability and lower cost make it a viable alternative as a specialty bed.

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