Application of vacuum modelling pad for lateral position in thoracic surgery

Objective To investigate the feasibility and safety of vacuum modelling pad for patients with lateral position in thoracic surgery to improve the convenience and comfortable experience for medical staff and patients. Methods From May 2017 to March 2018, 100 patients who underwent thoracic surgery under general anesthesia with lateral position in the operating room of Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center were randomly selected and divided into observation group (n=50) and control group (n=50) according to random number table. The polyurethane vacuum modelling pad was used for to secure the patients' position in the observation group, while the sand bag baffle was used to secure the patient's position in the control group. Position placement time and skin pressure blisters were recorded in both groups. Questionnaires were sent out after operation to collect the satisfaction of medical staff with this position. The patients' comfort was followed up within 24 hours after operation. Results The position placement time in the observation group was (183.56±10.36) s, shorter than the control group with (290.80±14.71) s and the difference was statistically significant (P 0.05) . Conclusions The use of modelling pad for patient lateral position in thoracic surgery can not only prevent organ and skin damage and ensure patient safety, but also simplify the operation procedure, improve the comfort of standing position and the working efficiency and satisfaction of the medical staff. Key words: Operating room nursing; Body position; Surgery treatrment; Lateral position; Modelling pad; Thoracic surgery