title: A method for consistent documentation of pressure sores.
abstract: To effectively prevent and manage pressure sores, healthcare professionals need an accurate assessment and precise communication of the status of skin and soft tissue. A study by French et al. (1983) found inconsistency in staff nurses' descriptions of pressure sores. Consistency in documentation was significantly improved immediately after a standardized teaching session, but these improvements were much less evident after 6 months. Based on these findings, a pressure sore flow sheet was developed at the authors' institution, the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, as a result of the study. The purpose of this form is to assist the nurse in conducting a more thorough, objective, and consistent evaluation of pressure sores. The form contains assessment parameters, key descriptor words, and a diagram with axes on which to draw the sore and label significant areas such as necrotic tissue. A grading key also is included on the form to ensure consistency in grading of pressure sores.
authors.forename: E T
authors.initials: ET
authors.lastname: French
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Ledwell-Sifner
mesh_terms: D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing; D005568:Forms and Records Control; D006801:Humans; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009737:Nursing Records / Q000592:standards*; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000451:nursing* / Q000473:pathology