Smith+Nephew Boosts Pressure Injury Prevention with ECRI Ratings

Smith+Nephew Achieves Favorable ECRI Ratings

Smith+Nephew, a leading global medical technology company, has announced that ECRI, a renowned independent authority in evidence-based healthcare, has conducted comprehensive updates on their Clinical Evidence Assessments. Their recent evaluations have yielded impressive results for Smith+Nephew’s ALLEVYN LIFE Sacrum Foam Dressings and the LEAF Patient Monitoring System, both receiving a favorable rating.

Understanding the ECRI Evidence Bar

The ECRI Evidence Bar serves as a valuable tool, visually representing the benefits and potential risks associated with various medical technologies. These assessments are critical for healthcare providers and third-party payers, helping them to make informed decisions based on the latest clinical evidence. ECRI's commitment is to enhance safety and cost-effectiveness in healthcare while being independent of any commercial influences.

ALLEVYN LIFE Sacrum Foam Dressing: A Closer Look

Designed specifically for managing both chronic and acute wounds, the ALLEVYN LIFE Sacrum Foam Dressing aims to prevent sacral pressure injuries effectively. This dressing features a unique multilayer structure that includes a hydrocellular foam pad capable of indicating when it needs to be changed. The innovative design incorporates a perforated adhesive layer coated with silicone gel, a breathable outer layer, and an absorbent core that helps lock away exudate. This careful construction allows for what’s known as a layer-on-layer sliding effect, which minimizes mechanical pressure on the skin and underlying tissues, ultimately reducing the risk of pressure injuries.

How ALLEVYN LIFE Dressings Work

The layered design not only aids in wound management but also serves to alleviate pressure. By dissipating the mechanical energy that could harm a patient’s skin, the dressing significantly enhances the healing process. This approach is vital in a clinical setting, where patient safety and comfort are of utmost importance.

The LEAF Patient Monitoring System’s Impact

Complementing the effectiveness of the ALLEVYN LIFE Dressings, the LEAF Patient Monitoring System stands out as an innovative, wireless, wearable solution. It aligns with the recommendations set forth by the National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP). The LEAF System has shown remarkable efficacy in improving adherence to personalized turning protocols, achieving compliance rates as high as 98%. Importantly, its use has been correlated with a substantial 73% reduction in the incidence of hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs).

Nursing Efficiency and Cost Savings

In addition to enhancing patient care, the LEAF System also aims to improve nursing efficiencies. Its implementation has been associated with significant cost savings, with estimates suggesting up to $1.8 million in annual savings in critical care units at certain facilities. This dual benefit of improving patient outcomes while reducing operational costs makes it a valuable addition to any healthcare setting.

The Burden of Hospital-Acquired Pressure Injuries

Hospital-acquired pressure injuries pose a serious challenge for healthcare systems globally, contributing to a staggering number of casualties and high costs. According to recent data, these injuries claim approximately 60,000 lives annually and impose a financial burden of around $26.8 billion in the U.S. alone. Smith+Nephew’s executives highlight the favorable ECRI ratings as a testament to their commitment towards enhancing healthcare practices and curbing pressure injuries.

Commitment to Healthcare Improvement

Rohit Kashyap, the President of Advanced Wound Management at Smith+Nephew, emphasized the importance of their innovations in the fight against pressure injuries, stating that these efforts are crucial in raising the standards of patient care and improving outcomes in healthcare.

Exploring Smith+Nephew's Advanced Wound Management Portfolio

ALLEVYN LIFE Foam Dressings and the LEAF Patient Monitoring System are integral parts of Smith+Nephew’s extensive Advanced Wound Management portfolio. The company’s commitment to innovation and excellence in wound care reflects its dedication to making a difference in the lives of patients around the world.

About Smith+Nephew

Founded in 1856, Smith+Nephew operates in over 100 countries and generated sales exceeding $5.5 billion in the most recent fiscal year. Its mission is to restore the lives of patients through innovative technology and a comprehensive healthcare approach, underscoring the purpose of ‘Life Unlimited’ that drives its 18,000 employees. As a constituent of the FTSE100, Smith+Nephew continues to redefine possibilities in medical technologies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the ECRI Evidence Bar ratings?

The ECRI Evidence Bar ratings reflect an organization’s assessment of the balance of benefits and harms of a technology based on clinical evidence.

How does ALLEVYN LIFE help prevent pressure injuries?

The ALLEVYN LIFE dressing features a multilayer design that minimizes mechanical pressure and enhances wound healing, aiding in the prevention of pressure injuries.

What is the purpose of the LEAF Patient Monitoring System?

The LEAF System is designed to monitor patients and ensure adherence to turning protocols, significantly reducing the risk of pressure injuries.

What impact do pressure injuries have on healthcare systems?

Pressure injuries contribute to adverse health outcomes and incur significant costs, straining healthcare resources and affecting patient care negatively.

How does Smith+Nephew aim to improve healthcare practices?

Smith+Nephew focuses on innovative products and solutions that enhance patient care quality and safety, as evidenced by their favorable ECRI ratings.

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