8 Translation 179
Box 8.2 Example of Template for Executive Summary Using PET (continued)
Level
Type
Number
of
Sources
Overall
Quality
Rating
Synthesis of Findings
(Evidence That Answers the EBP Question)
Level I 5 B ■■Foam is not found to be better than conventional nursing
care.
■■Gel pads are better than standard operating room (OR)
mattresses.
■■Screening should be conducted for specific risk factors.
■■There is no difference between low-flow-pressure
mattresses and alternating-pressure mattresses.
■■Multicell dynamic-pressure pulsating mattresses are more
effective than conventional mattresses.
Level II 4 B ■■Conduct screening for specific risk factors.
■■Alternating-pressure systems are effective.
■■Viscoelastic polyether is more effective than foam or gel.
Level III 2 A–B ■■Screening should be conducted for specific risk factors.
Level IV 0
Level V 7 B ■■Fluid pad reduces pressure ulcers.
■■Foam overlays have the lowest pressure reduction.
■■Gel pads allow for some pressure reduction.
■■Dynamic-air-pressure mattresses are promising but need
more research.
■■Foam pads are not effective in reducing capillary interface
pressure because they quickly compress under heavy
body areas.
■■Use of gel pads or similar devices over the OR bed
decreases pressure at any given point by redistributing
overall pressure across a larger surface area.
■■Foam mattress overlays are effective in reducing pressure
only if they are made of thick and dense foam that resists
compression.
■■Pillows, blankets, and molded foam devices produce only
a minimum of pressure reduction.
■■Towels and sheet rolls do not reduce pressure and may
contribute to friction injuries.
continues
