Prophylactic Sacral Dressing in Prevention of Pressure Injury among ICU Patients: A Systematic Review & Meta-analysis
Summary: A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Indian Journal of Critical Care Medicine examined the role of prophylactic sacral dressings (PSD) in preventing pressure injuries (PIs) among ICU patients. Across seven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 3,735 participants, PSD significantly reduced the incidence of sacral pressure injuries compared with standard care alone.
Key Highlights:
- Study scope: Seven RCTs evaluated 2,144 patients treated with PSD and 1,591 patients receiving standard care.
- Effectiveness: PSD use led to a significant reduction in sacral pressure injuries (p < 0.001) and stage II or higher injuries (p = 0.006).
- Common dressings: Multi-layered silicone foam dressings such as Mepilex and Allevyn were most frequently used, with similar outcomes.
- Evidence quality: Certainty of evidence was rated moderate for overall PI reduction, but low for stage II+ outcomes.
- Clinical practice: PSD should complement established measures such as repositioning, pressure redistribution devices, and skin monitoring.
- Economic impact: Preventing advanced pressure injuries with PSD may reduce overall healthcare costs.
Read the full article in IJCCM
Keywords:
prophylactic sacral dressing,
pressure injury,
ICU,
silicone foam dressing,
Mepilex,
Allevyn