From the Guidelines
The standard treatment for a stage 2 pressure ulcer of the buttocks involves using hydrocolloid or foam dressings to reduce wound size, in conjunction with standard therapies such as pressure redistribution and nutritional support. When managing a stage 2 pressure ulcer, it is essential to prioritize strategies that promote wound healing, prevent further tissue damage, and improve patient comfort.
- Key components of care include:
- Dressing selection: Hydrocolloid or foam dressings are recommended 1 as they have been shown to reduce wound size compared to traditional gauze dressings.
- Pressure redistribution: Implementing a regular turning schedule (every 2 hours) and utilizing pressure-relieving devices can help alleviate pressure on the affected area.
- Nutritional support: Providing adequate protein, calories, and essential vitamins and minerals is crucial for supporting the body's natural healing processes, although the optimal dose or form of protein supplementation is not well-defined 1.
- Wound assessment and monitoring: Regular evaluation of the wound for signs of healing or deterioration is vital to guide treatment decisions and prevent complications.
- Pain management: Addressing pain effectively is important for patient comfort and can facilitate adherence to the treatment plan.
- Infection prevention and management: Monitoring for signs of infection and implementing appropriate interventions promptly is critical to prevent worsening of the ulcer. This comprehensive approach to managing stage 2 pressure ulcers prioritizes evidence-based practices to promote healing, reduce morbidity, and improve quality of life for affected patients.
From the Research
Treatment of Stage 2 Pressure Ulcers
The treatment of stage 2 pressure ulcers involves a comprehensive approach to promote healing and prevent further deterioration.
- The use of dressings and topical agents is a common practice in the treatment of pressure ulcers 2.
- A study found that hydrocolloids are more effective than gauze dressings in reducing wound dimensions and are associated with less pain and side effects during dressing changes 3.
- Support surfaces, such as foam alternatives to standard hospital foam mattresses, can also play a crucial role in preventing pressure ulcers 4.
- A protocol for the successful treatment of pressure ulcers includes daily assessment of the skin, objective measurement of every wound, mechanical debridement of nonviable tissue, and establishment of a moist wound-healing environment 5.
Dressings and Topical Agents
- Protease-modulating dressings may increase the probability of pressure ulcer healing compared to saline gauze, but the evidence is of moderate certainty 2.
- Collagenase ointment, foam dressings, and polyvinylpyrrolidone plus zinc oxide may also increase the probability of healing, but the evidence is of low certainty 2.
- Hydrocolloids are more effective than gauze dressings in reducing wound dimensions and are associated with less pain and side effects during dressing changes 3.
Support Surfaces
- Foam alternatives to standard hospital foam mattresses can reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers in people at risk 4.
- Alternating-pressure mattresses may be more cost-effective than alternating-pressure overlays in a UK context 4.
- Medical grade sheepskins are associated with a decrease in pressure ulcer development 4.