Assistive technologies for self-managed pressure ulcer prevention in spinal cord injury: a scoping review.

Abstract

Pressure ulcers (PUs) in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) present a persistent and costly problem. Continuing effort in developing new technologies that support self-managed care is an important prevention strategy. Specifically, the aims of this scoping review are to review the key concepts and factors related to self-managed prevention of PUs in individuals with SCI and appraise the technologies available to assist patients in self-management of PU prevention practices. There is broad consensus that sustaining long-term adherence to prevention regimens is a major concern. Recent literature highlights the interactions between behavioral and physiological risk factors. We identify four technology categories that support self-management: computer-based educational technologies demonstrated improved short-term gains in knowledge (2 studies), interface pressure mapping technologies demonstrated improved adherence to pressure-relief schedules up to 3 mo (5 studies), electrical stimulation confirmed improvements in tissue tolerance after 8 wk of training (3 studies), and telemedicine programs demonstrated improvements in independence and reduced hospital visits over 6 mo (2 studies). Overall, self-management technologies demonstrated low-to-moderate effectiveness in addressing a subset of risk factors. However, the effectiveness of technologies in preventing PUs is limited due to a lack of incidence reporting. In light of the key findings, we recommend developing integrated technologies that address multiple risk factors.

• Authors: James Y Tung, Brent Stead, William Mann, Ba'Pham, Milos R Popovic
• Journal: Journal of rehabilitation research and development (J Rehabil Res Dev) Vol. 52 Issue 2 Pg. 131-46 ( 2015) ISSN: 1938-1352 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 26237111 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Topics

• Humans
• Pressure Ulcer (etiology, prevention & control)
• Self Care
• Self-Help Devices
• Spinal Cord Injuries (complications)