Stephens M, Bartley C. Use of night-time positioning equipment in care home residents with postural asymmetry: a pilot study.
Nurs Older People 2020;
32:17-24. [PMID:
32212511 DOI:
10.7748/nop.2020.e1216]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Twenty four-hour postural care that includes the use of night-time positioning equipment (NTPE) is being increasingly recommended. However, because most of the published studies focus on children, there is a lack of evidence on the use of NTPE in adults.
AIM
The aim of this pilot study was to assess the effect of NTPE use in UK care home residents with complex health conditions and postural asymmetry.
METHODS
Ten care home residents trialled NTPE over a 12-week period. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected before and after each trial using standardised assessment tools. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants and relatives after each trial. Staff's views were elicited via two focus groups at the end of the study.
RESULTS
There were notable benefits of NTPE use in terms of participants' pain levels, sleep quality, risk of pressure ulcers, risk of choking, and weight. There was also evidence of improvements in participants' function, ability to undertake activities of daily living and quality of life. However, some equipment was abandoned during the trials because participants found it too hot or restrictive.
CONCLUSION
This pilot study increases the evidence base for a personalised approach to 24-hour postural care that can support older people's health and well-being. Further empirical studies are required to determine how NTPE can be used to improve older people's quality of life.
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