Evaluation of the clinical effectiveness of bundled care interventions on pressure ulcer incidence in neurosurgical patients.

BACKGROUND

Pressure ulcers are a common and serious complication in neurosurgical patients, primarily due to prolonged immobility. Effective prevention is essential to improving patient outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of bundled care interventions in reducing the incidence of pressure ulcers and improving quality of life and nursing satisfaction in neurosurgical patients.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 316 neurosurgical patients, divided into two groups: the study group (n = 158) received bundled care interventions, while the control group (n = 158) received conventional care, which involved standard post-operative interventions such as regular repositioning, pressure-relieving devices, health education, and psychological support. Bundled care included pre-operative risk assessment using the Waterlow Scale, targeted preventive measures, health education, nutritional support, and post-operative monitoring. Data were collected on pressure ulcer incidence, quality of life (assessed by the Short Form Health Survey), nursing satisfaction, and length of hospital stay. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Version 27.0, applying independent sample t-tests and chi-square tests where appropriate.

RESULTS

The study group demonstrated a significantly lower incidence of pressure ulcers (11.39%) compared to the control group (19.62%, χ 2 = 4.08, p < 0.05). The study group also exhibited significantly improved quality of life outcomes across all domains, including physical, physiological, emotional, and social functioning (p < 0.001 for all). In physical functioning, the study group scored 83.33 ± 2.12, while the control group scored 77.20 ± 1.89. Emotional functioning also improved significantly, with the study group scoring 85.32 ± 2.05 compared to 76.41 ± 2.12 in the control group. Nursing satisfaction was higher in the study group, with an overall satisfaction rate of 96.20%, compared to 88.61% in the control group (χ 2 = 6.49, p < 0.05). The study group reported a significantly lower proportion of dissatisfied patients and a higher proportion of those who were highly satisfied.

CONCLUSION

Bundled care interventions significantly reduce pressure ulcer incidence and improve quality of life and nursing satisfaction in neurosurgical patients. This multidisciplinary approach effectively addresses both physical and psychological aspects of post-operative care, contributing to better patient outcomes and overall satisfaction.