We use prone positioning to treat the unique patient population with COVID-19 who develop Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Often patients are in this position for 12 to 16 hours during the acute phase, with the goal of this treatment strategy to improve oxygenation, prevent ventilator-induced lung injury, and promote drainage of secretions.
As clinicians, we must be acutely aware of the pressure points that are most at risk when patients are in the prone position. One of the risks of this treatment is the potential development of pressure injuries (PIs).
The National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP) has developed a PI resource for clinicians. It has valuable information, references, and tips. Utilize this great resource from NPIAP to assist with rationale for proning and pressure injury prevention tips for prone positioning with specific recommendations for specific pressure points.
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