Barnsley Hospital joined hospitals across the country and globe in observing World Wide Stop Pressure Ulcers Day (16 November 2017).

World Wide Stop Pressure Ulcers Day is a global annual event, first introduced in 2013, in which healthcare professionals, the public, industry and media come together to help raise awareness of pressure ulcers – something many people are touched by every year. Our special activities recognised the contributions of staff and their role as goodwill pressure ulcer prevention ambassadors for the hospital.

Tissue Viability Clinical Nurse Specialist Paula MacDonald (left) and Tissue Viability Clinical Nurse Specialist Michelle Nowell (right) held a study day and a stall in the hospital restaurant. Both events aimed to reach as many different disciplines of staff and visitors to the hospital to raise awareness of the importance of identifying those who are at risk of developing pressure ulcers, and also how to prevent pressure damage from occurring.

The stand included information on the React to Red training programme, which has helped the Trust to reduce its hospital acquired pressure ulcers. “React to Red” is a training tool designed to help nursing / care home staff recognise patient risk factors and the early warning signs (areas of red skin) that pressure damage is starting to occur, prompting them to react and ensure preventative measures are in place.

Paula said: “We are proud of the efforts of all of our staff in working hard to both recognise and reduce the risk of pressure damage. Pressure ulcer prevention only works when staff from all disciplines engage in preventative efforts.”