Randomised, controlled trial of alternating pressure mattresses compared with alternating pressure overlays for the prevention of pressure ulcers: PRESSURE (pressure relieving support surfaces) trial.
OBJECTIVE
To compare whether differences exist between alternating pressure overlays and alternating pressure mattresses in the development of new pressure ulcers, healing of existing pressure ulcers, and patient acceptability.


METHODS
Pragmatic, open, multicentre, randomised controlled trial.


METHODS
11 hospitals in six NHS trusts.


METHODS
1972 people admitted to hospital as acute or elective patients.


METHODS
Participants were randomised to an alternating pressure mattress (n = 982) or an alternating pressure overlay (n = 990).


METHODS
The proportion of participants developing a new pressure ulcer of grade 2 or worse; time to development of new pressure ulcers; proportions of participants developing a new ulcer within 30 days; healing of existing pressure ulcers; and patient acceptability.


RESULTS
Intention to treat analysis found no difference in the proportions of participants developing a new pressure ulcer of grade 2 or worse (10.7% overlay patients, 10.3% mattress patients; difference 0.4%, 95% confidence interval--2.3% to 3.1%, P = 0.75). More overlay patients requested change owing to dissatisfaction (23.3%) than mattress patients (18.9%, P = 0.02).


CONCLUSIONS
No difference was found between alternating pressure mattresses and alternating pressure overlays in the proportion of people who develop a pressure ulcer.


BACKGROUND
ISRCTN 78646179.
Nixon
Jane
J
Clinical Trials Research Unit, University of Leeds.
Cranny
Gillian
G
Iglesias
Cynthia
C
Nelson
E Andrea
EA
Hawkins
Kim
K
Phillips
Angela
A
Torgerson
David
D
Mason
Su
S
Cullum
Nicky
N
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001512:Bedding and Linens; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000517:prevention & control*