Randomised, controlled trial of alternating pressure mattresses compared with alternating pressure overlays for the prevention of pressure ulcers: PRESSURE (pressure relieving support surfaces) trial

BMJ. 2006 Jun 17;332(7555):1413. doi: 10.1136/bmj.38849.478299.7C. Epub 2006 Jun 1.

Abstract

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.

Design: Pragmatic, open, multicentre, randomised controlled trial.

Setting: 11 hospitals in six NHS trusts.

Participants: 1972 people admitted to hospital as acute or elective patients.

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

Main outcome measures: 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).

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

Trial registration: ISRCTN 78646179.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Multicenter Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Bedding and Linens*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Pressure Ulcer / prevention & control*

Associated data

  • ISRCTN/ISRCTN78646179