The benefits of using a first generation SEM scanner versus an equipment selection pathway in preventing HAPUs

Several studies have demonstrated improved clinical outcomes in pressure ulcer prevention using the SEM scanner, but none have compared it with other methods. In one of Scotland's health boards, ‘hot spot’ wards had been unable to reduce the number of hospital-acquired pressure ulcers (HAPUs) after several years of focused improvement work. In addition, other wards showed high use of dynamic therapy systems with associated costs. This review compares the use of a first generation SEM scanner versus a mattress and equipment selection pathway over a 6-week period. The findings show that the SEM scanner wards had zero HAPU while the equipment pathway wards developed a total of 4 HAPU. The two SEM scanner wards showed a 11% and 33% reduction in dynamic therapy use, while the pathway wards showed an average 40% increase. Consideration should be given to using SEM scanners to support staff decision-making to reduce HAPU development and dynamic therapy usage.