Development of Novel Strategy for Reducing Pediatric Hospital-Acquired Pressure Injuries

Hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs) most often develop in immobilized patients, with pressure on tissues that overlie bony prominences; the most vulnerable areas being the occiput, sacrum, and heels. HAPIs result in significant patient morbidity, mortality, and cost. In this Independent study course, the student will develop preclinical and clinical data to validate the use of an existing, but untested, innovation to prevent hospital-acquired pressure injuries in children. The student will first design and conduct an ex-vivo study to establish proof-of-concept of the device with the option to continue into clinical stage testing in the OR and ICU.