Date of Award

Spring 5-27-2023

Document Type

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Manuscript

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Kevin Maxwell, Ph.D., DNP, FNP

Second Advisor

Aaron James Stirling, DNP, ENP-C, FNP-C

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this evidenced-based practice Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project was to determine the impact and efficacy of using Suprathel artificial wound and burn dressing on patients treated at a UC San Diego Health Regional Burn Center for second-degree burns. The primary goal of this project will be to evaluate the impact of using Suprathel on hospital length of stay; compare wound infection rates, pain score, and morphine equivalent use; and to identify the cost-effectiveness of the Suprathel artificial wound and burn dressing.

Background: Burns are a global health concern causing significant morbidity and mortality, accounting for 180,000 deaths annually. Burn injuries are associated with a significant amount of pain and suffering, which has a substantial impact on the patient's quality of life. The thermal insult on the skin can affect both the epidermal and dermal layers depending on its duration and intensity. Unsuccessful burn treatment leads to major economic and psychological impacts on long-term somatic sequelae, imposing additional costs to the healthcare system.

Results: Suprathel artificial wound and burn dressing resulted in a reduction in patients' length of stay and a lack of complications, as well as the elimination of the need for multiple painful dressing changes and expedited wound healing and improved patient outcomes. The average length of stay for patients treated with Suprathel was four days, whereas it was five days for those who did not receive this treatment. Furthermore, Suprathel patients did not experience any significant complications compared to those who did not receive Suprathel dressing. The results of the overall pain assessment indicate a mild difference in MME use per day among the Suprathel and non-Suprathel groups. The average MME use per day in the Suprathel and non-Suprathel patients are 22.19 and 22.2, respectively. Lastly, calculated cost shows a marked decrease in cost in the Suprathel population verses the non-suprathel.

Evaluation: This intervention can ultimately eliminate the need and the burden associated with daily dressing changes for patients, caregivers, and staff. It also resulted in shorter hospitalization, reducing costs and allows them to return home which especially benefits pediatric patients. This results in better outcomes and less complications for those being treated for second degree burns.

Keywords: Suprathel, Second Degree Burn Treatment, Cost Effectiveness, Patient Outcomes

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