The Cost of Treating Pressure Ulcers
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Date
2010-05-29
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Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University
Abstract
Objective : To determine the cost of treating pressure ulcers in the Rehabilitation ward Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kaen University.Method : This is a prospective study. Thirty patients with 54 pressure ulcers were studied in the period of 2 years and 3 months.Results: The most common site of the pressure ulcer was at the sacral area, i.e. 21/54 ulcers (38.88%). The most common site of the grade 4 ulcer was also at sacral area, i. e. 8/12 ulcers (66.66%). The cost of treating pressure ulcers was the summation of the costs of room and board during pressure ulcer treatment, nursing time for wound care, medical supplies, medications and operations. The total cost was 1,167,926.46 baht (mean ± SD = 48,764.70 ±55,426.43 baht / patient, median = 30)484.14 baht / patient). While the hospital charged the patients for ulcer treatment totally for 471,753.00 baht (mean ± SD = 15,217.84 ± 20,781.59 baht / patient, median = 6,800.00 baht / patient).Conclusion : Pressure ulcers are preventable unless one is ignorant. Treatments of pressure ulcers cost both time and money. Patients with increased risks of developing pressure ulcers should have special attention to prevent pressure ulcers both in acute and long term care facilities.Key words : Pressure ulcer , decubitus ulcer.
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Srinagarind Medical Journal (SMJ); Vo.12 No. 2 April - June 1997; 74-82