Radiological perspective of the formation of pressure ulcers - a comparison of pressure and experience on two imaging surfaces.

Abstract

Introduction: Pressure ulcers are a high cost, high volume issue for health and medical care providers, affecting patients’ recovery and psychological wellbeing. The current research of pressure on support surfaces as a risk factor in the development of pressure ulcers is not relevant to the specialised, controlled environment of the radiological setting. Method: 38 healthy participants aged 19-51 were positioned supine on two different imaging surfaces (X-ray Table & Mattressed Table). Interface pressure data was acquired using the XSENSOR pressure mapping over a time of 2073 minutes, preceded by 6 minutes settling time to reduce measurement error. Qualitative data regarding participants’ opinion of pain and comfort was recorded using a questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 22. Results: Data was collected from 30 participants aged 19 to 51 (mean 25.77, SD 7.72), BMI from 18.7 to 33.6 (mean 24.12, SD 3.29), for both imaging surfaces, following eight participant exclusions. Total average pressure, average pressure for jeopardy areas (head, sacrum & heels) and peak pressure for jeopardy areas were calculated as interface pressure in mmHg. Qualitative data showed that a significant difference (P<0.05) in experiences of pain and discomfort between the two surfaces. A significant difference is seen in average pressure between the two surfaces. Conclusion: Pain and comfort data also show a significant difference between the surfaces. All findings support the proposal for further investigation into the effects of radiological surfaces and overlays as a risk factor for the formation of pressure ulcers.