National Decubitus Foundation

Hospitalized patients receive treatment for 2.5 million pressure ulcers (bedsores) each year. Admitted patients over 70 have nearly a 1 in 3 chance of developing this debilitating wound. Few realize the horror that is the bedsore, eating through skin and fat to provide the site for life-threatening infection. The NDF is dedicated to eradicating hospital-caused bedsores.NDF research has shown the way to eradicating bedsores. This 2006 research, Reducing Pressure Ulcer Incidence through Braden Scale Risk Assessment and Support Surface Use, was published in the July 2008 issue of Advances in Skin & Wound Care. This research led to the NDF Prevention Protocol, including Braden Scale risk assessment followed by provision of a pressure redistribution support surface for all at-risk patients. Our focus is now on educating authorities concerning the need for regulation to require that all hospitals invest in sufficient support surfaces to provide to all at-risk patients.