Pressure Injury Prevention
Some children have an increased risk of developing a pressure injury as they may not be able to verbalise their pain or discomfort. A pressure injury is an injury to the skin caused by unrelieved pressure. They can happen quickly, be painful and take a long time to heal. Pressure injuries may develop under plasters, splints or braces, and around medical equipment such as tubes, masks, drains and cannulas.
Risk assessment
Risk assessment of patients using a validated tool is recommended. The pressure injury risk assessment consists of two parts:
- Use a validated pressure injury risk assessment tool (i.e. Adapted Glamorgan or Braden Q)
- Skin assessment that is based on visual inspection.
The result of this two part assessment will inform the clinical decision making process.
For more information on when to do a risk assessment, who is at risk, where a pressure injury could occur or how to reduce the risk of pressure injuries refer to:
Information for parents and carers
Posters
The CEC has developed a range of posters aimed at parents and carers in raising awareness of potential risk of pressure injuries for children in hospital.
Charts
The NSW Ministry of Health has developed Paediatric Risk Assessment charts which incorporate the Adapted Glamorgan or Braden Q Pressure Injury Prevention Tools.
Paediatric Risk Assessment Form
(incorporating the Adapted Glamorgan)
Order via Finsbury Green 1800 515 222Stock Code: NH700063
Download
Paediatric Risk Assessment Form
(incorporating the Braden Q)
Order via Finsbury Green 1800 515 222Stock Code: NH700049
Download
Paediatric Nursing Assessment and Care Plan
Order via Finsbury Green 1800 515 222Stock Code: NH700048
Download
Paediatric Nursing Care Plan
Extended stay form available for longer admissions
Order via Finsbury Green 1800 515 222Stock Code: NH700047
Download