ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: This study was done to examine the prophylactic effect of transparent film dressing on the sacrum and coccyx sites to reduce pressure ulcers. METHODS: The participants were 317 patients admitted to an SICU in Seoul, Korea. Of the patients, 175 were assigned to the experimental group and 142 to the control group. For participants in the experimental group, a prophylactic transparent film dressing was applied on the sacrum and coccyx. The control group received the usual care. The nurses checked for pressure ulcers on the sacrum and coccyx at least once every duty. When pressure ulcer occurred, it reported on the record form. The results were analyzed using Poisson and Hierarchical logistic regression. RESULTS: The prevalence and risk of pressure ulcer was lower in the experimental group compared to the control group but the difference was not significant. The ICU length of stay was significantly associated with pressure ulcer risk. CONCLUSION: Findings indicate that prophylactic transparent film dressing helps to reduce pressure ulcer in SICU patients.