Continuous Lateral Rotation Therapy Training to Promote Adherence to Evidence-based Practice Guideline in a Medical Intensive Care Unit

Background: Patients who experience immobility in a critical care setting are at risk of developing skin breakdown. Hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPI) contribute to health care problems worldwide. Literature supports continuous lateral rotation therapy (CLRT) that redistributes pressure as an efficient means to reduce HAPI and provide mobility for patients who are critically ill or have unstable conditions. Purpose: The purpose of this project was to promote the registered nurse (RNs) and patient care technician’s (PCTs) adherence to evidence-based practice (EBP) through training of continuous lateral rotation therapy (CLRT) in the medical intensive care unit (MICU). Method: A hands-on, educational intervention was conducted in the MICU of an academic medical center. Effectiveness was evaluated in a quantitative pre and post evaluation. Results: Sixty-seven nursing staff participated in the project. Results showed a positive trend toward increased adherence in CLRT initiation, the mode used during therapy, or maintaining every 2-hour turn regimen pre and post-training. Statistical significance was noted in staff confidence level (p