In November 2022, Swiss hospitals resumed the assessment of their pressure ulcer (bedsore) incidence after a three-year hiatus. A total of 182 acute care hospitals and clinics participated in this quality investigation, with 133 providing meaningful data (15 or more recorded patients). The study encompassed 12,460 patients nationwide.
However, there is also encouraging news. The Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen shows pleasingly good results with a significantly lower pressure ulcer rate. This accomplishment is particularly impressive, considering that KSG already outperformed in 2019.
The differences in pressure ulcer rates among hospitals in the 'mid-range' are often marginal and should not be overinterpreted.
Yet, following hospitals disappoint with significantly elevated (risk-adjusted) pressure ulcer rates: Hôpital du Valais - Centre hospitalier du centre du Valais - CHCVs in Sion, Spital Brig, the otherwise highly regarded Schulthess Clinic in Zurich, Salem-Spital (Hirslanden Bern), Adullam Spital in Basel, Hôpital Pourtalès, Neuchâtel (RHNe), and Hôpitaux universitaires de Genève. The latter three hospitals faced the same issue (significantly elevated values) in the last measurement three years ago.
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Since 2011, the National Association for the Development of Quality in Hospitals and Clinics (ANQ) assesses the prevalence of hospital-acquired bedsores in the majority of Swiss hospitals and in some rehab-clinics. A bedsore (pressure sores, pressure ulcers, decubitus) is defined as a lesion of the skin and, if progressing, also of the deeper tissue caused by prolonged pressure. Bedridden and wheelchair-bound people are vulnerable. Hips, buttocks and heels are particularly at risk. A bedsore is often chronic and makes the patient prone to infections, which can lead to sepsis in severe cases.
Bedsores are often a result of insufficient care. Their prevention requires appropriate measures e.g. avoidance of dents, frequent turning and repositioning, use of anti-decubitus mattresses and cushions, controlling heat and moisture levels of the skin surface. Thus bedsores can frequently be avoided with attentive and well-organized care. The rate of hospital-acquired bedsores is therefore a good measure of the thoroughness of hospital-care.