For our first Wound Research Voices feature we are delighted to share a summary of Dr Anika Fourie’s PhD Thesis, titled: “Preventing skin damage in hospitalised patients: a journey from gap analysis to learning needs and clinical trials.” The thesis was successfully defended in June 2025.
Anika Fourie’s research addresses the critical issue of hospital-acquired skin injuries, particularly in patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) who require prone positioning as a life-saving intervention. Across five interconnected studies, the thesis investigates educational, procedural, and preventive strategies to optimise patient safety while minimising the risk of pressure ulcers and other skin damage.
Key outcomes include the development of simulation-based training resources, the creation of the PRONEtect Education Hub (www.pronetection.com), and the evaluation of silicone foam dressings as a protective measure. Together, these initiatives provide clinicians with the tools and knowledge needed to reduce harm, improve patient outcomes, and uphold the highest standards of care in complex clinical settings.
Find a summary of Dr Fourie’s research here
Would you like to share your PhD thesis in the coming months? Please do reach out via email to jb@ewma.org.
Are you young and eager to advance your career in wound management, as a researcher or clinical practitioner? Explore the EWMA NextGen Mentorship Programme or the EWMA Young Wound Experts Group.
