Effectiveness of Individual Planned Teaching Programme (PTP) to the Caregivers on Prevention of Pressure Sores among Caregivers of Immobilised Patients

Pressure sores are preventable. The adage prevention is better than cure holds good if proper care is given to the patients who are at a risk of developing pressure sores. Family members play a major role in preventing pressure sores. Education is a vital component in the care of immobilised patients. Education will make the patient as independent as possible so as to make intelligent decision about his/her care, to prevent complications, and to decrease anxiety. An evaluative research approach with one group pre-test post-test design was used and the study was conducted at Government Wenlock Hospital, Mangalore. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling. Sample consisted of 30 care givers of immobilized patients. Data was collected using the structured interview schedule, structured observation checklist, and Modified Skin assessment checklist to observe the skin of immobilised patients for the development of pressure. The main findings showed that there was difference in the mean pre-test and post-test knowledge scores (24.4 % and 15.1 %) and mean pre-test and post-test ability scores (27.7 % and 11.4 %). The mean difference between the post-test and pre-test knowledge scores of caregivers regarding prevention of pressure sores was found to be highly significant (t29=3.94, p < 0.05). The mean difference between the post-test and pre-test ability scores of caregivers regarding prevention of pressure sores was found to be highly significant (t29=24.4, p < 0.05). Findings of the study indicated that Individual planned teaching was effective in prevention of pressure sores among caregivers of immobilised patients.