Developing an equipment library: the solution to increasing demand.
Within the clinical practice arena there appears to be an increasing reliance on the use of dynamic pressure-relieving mattress systems to prevent and treat pressure damage. This has increased the financial burden for many trusts despite the efficacy and effectiveness of such products being largely unknown. Cullum et al (2000) suggest that studies that evaluate specific products or types of products to prevent or cure pressure ulcers are limited in size and quality. This article describes the experiences of an acute NHS trust in managing the increasing demand for pressure-relieving equipment. By setting up an equipment library, resources have been effectively managed, traditional cultures regarding ownership of equipment have been challenged, and financial benefits have been demonstrated.
Newton
H
H
Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, Truro, Cornwall.
D001513:Beds / Q000191:economics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004739:England; D006801:Humans; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000517:prevention & control; D011996:Records