Benefits and risks of non-slip socks in hospitals: a rapid review.
Int J Qual Health Care
; 33(2)2021 Apr 09.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-33755121
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Non-slip socks are sometimes used in an attempt to prevent falls in hospitals despite limited evidence of benefit. We critique the current literature on their risks, benefits and effects.METHODS:
A rapid review was conducted following the Cochrane Rapid Review Methods Group Guidelines. To be included, studies needed to have data on single or multifactorial interventions that used non-slip socks in hospitals or their safety, risks or effects in a laboratory setting. Six electronic databases were searched Medline, Embase, Cinahl, Cochrane, Allied and Medical Health Database (AMED) and Proquest Central.RESULTS:
Fourteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Nine used non-slip socks as an intervention in hospitals. Three assessed their effects in laboratory settings. Two reported risks in relation to bacterial transfer. Most studies that used non-slip socks to prevent hospital falls had negative or equivocal results and were of comparatively low method quality, with a high risk of bias. Two of the laboratory tests reported traction socks to be no safer than walking barefoot and to have similar slip resistance. The laboratory studies had a low risk of bias and showed that bacteria can sometimes be acquired from socks.CONCLUSION:
Non-slip socks have the potential to carry an infection control risk that requires careful management. There was no strong or conclusive evidence that they prevent hospital falls.Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Hospitais
Tipo de estudo:
Etiology_studies
/
Risk_factors_studies
/
Systematic_reviews
Limite:
Humans
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2021
Tipo de documento:
Article