Vol XVI, Apr `06

• Overall estimates of pressure ulcer prevalence in the nursing home setting range from 1.2% to 28%, depending on the level of ulcer severity included (Allman, 1997; Cuddigan et al., 2001).
  
• Mortality rates among nursing home residents with pressure ulcers are two to six times higher than among residents without pressure ulcers (Patterson et al., 1995).

In addition, estimates of the cost to treat a single pressure ulcer range from $500 to $40,000 (Lyder, 2003). Due to the prevalence, mortality, and cost, improving pressure ulcer prevention and treatment is extremely important for high-quality nursing home care.

What's Included?

In addition to the Pressure Ulcer CPG and Therapy Companion CPG, the AMDA toolkit includes:

• Champion's Guide to Implementation
• Checklist for policies and procedures, to ensure these processes have been done
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Slide Presentations for MDs and Staff Members
• Summary of Physician Responsibilities and their role in the study
• Task Assignment Grid for assignment and accountability
• Template letters for physicians, staff members, and family
• Quality indicators
• And a list of additional resources