Pressure relief splinting for an infant: a systemic approach.
BACKGROUND
This case report describes a unique splinting design used on a 6 month-old infant with a grade II heel pressure sore. Traditional methods of attaining pressure relief such as gel pads and repositioning may benefit an inactive, relatively healthy child. However, a 6 month-old infant who is actively at the developmental age of reciprocal kicking is less likely to respond to these interventions. Furthermore, children with multiple systemic diagnosis may demonstrate a rapid deterioration of their pressure sore when the most effective intervention is not initially chosen.


METHODS
This paper reviews the multiple systems which impact wound healing to assist the occupational therapist in choosing efficient methods of pressure relief. The splint design described was chosen due to the age and the complex medical history of the infant.


CONCLUSIONS
The effectiveness of total pressure relief initiated early in the infant's treatment resulted in complete visual healing within one month. It was worn for six weeks to avoid recurrence on an already susceptible area of skin.
Denys
Adelle
A
Stollery Children's Hospital, AB. adelle_denys@hotmail.com
D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000628:therapy*; D013165:Splints