The supine position is the most common surgical position with the patient lying on their back with the head, neck and spine in a neutral position. This position is not without pressure injury risk as there is increased pressure and shear forces to the scapula, occiput, elbows, sacrum, coccyx, and heels. Today we are going to look at ways to mitigate the risk for pressure injuries (PI) to the heel, related to the supine position. When a patient lies supine, all the pressure of their lower legs and feet rest on the heel. Heel PI represents approximately one third of pressure injuries acquired, and can result in increased morbidity and mortality. In some cases, heel pressure injuries can lead to amputation of the affected limb.
Sally Fulmer | August 22, 2023 4:40 PM
Essential goods are part of any great care or service. The operating room has countless examples of such materials. As perioperative professionals we know what is needed to provide the safest patient care.
Positioning patients safely and effectively is paramount to the success of all procedures. We often require more dedicated time and effort to position our patients than it takes to complete the entire surgical procedure. The lateral position involves multiple steps and items to achieve safety and success. A critical device for this position is the axillary roll. This device is a hot commodity in many operating rooms and at times this can lead to a short supply because of hoarding by one service team or another. The savvy OR team member looks ahead for the needs of the patient. However there are unplanned cases and emergent needs that arise throughout the day. Despite these spontaneous cases, the OR nurse must never sacrifice safety at the cost of anatomical exposure and position
Sally Fulmer | April 18, 2023 5:23 PM
