Evaluation of the Effect of Local Propolis Application on the Healing of Pressure Sores
Evaluation of the Effect of Local Propolis Application on the Healing of Pressure Sores
The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of local propolis application in patients with pressure ulcers. A total of 62 patients were included in this randomized controlled experimental study, with 31 patients in the propolis group and 31 in the control group. While the control group received the clinic's standard wound care treatment protocol, the propolis group was administered 30% pure propolis extract in addition to the standard wound care treatment protocol. For data collection, the following tools were used: the Introductory Characteristics Form, which includes patients' socio-demographic and medical information; the Propolis Application Follow-up Form; the Pressure Ulcer Healing Assessment Scale; pain assessment tools including the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for conscious patients and the Face Pain Scale for unconscious patients; Katz's Index of Activities of Daily Living; and the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI).
Inclusion Criteria:
The patient or their caregiver is able to communicate verbally, Hospitalized in palliative care or intensive care units for at least one week, Has a Stage 1, 2, or 3 pressure ulcer according to NPUAP (13), The wound has not been closed by a physician, Agrees to participate in the study, Expected to stay in the hospital for at least 21 days.
Exclusion Criteria:
The patient or their caregiver is unable to communicate verbally, Has a Stage 4 or unstageable pressure ulcer according to NPUAP, The wound has been closed by a physician, Does not agree to participate in the study, Expected to stay in the hospital for less than 21 days.