Is the use of Supplemental vitamin C and zinc for the prevention & treatment of pressure ulcers evidence-based?

Namirah Jamshed, Edward L. Schneider

Research output: Contribution to journalShort surveypeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

Supplemental zinc and vitamin C are routinely prescribed for the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers. The authors sought to determine whether there is sufficient evidence-based medical research to support the use of these supplements. Both zinc and vitamin C have been shown in animals to be necessary for effective wound healing. Since malnutrition in institutionalized older patients may contribute to their risk of developing pressure ulcers and may interfere with the treatment of these lesions, it has been proposed that improving nutrition through supplementation of vitamin C and zinc may assist in the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers. However, the authors' review of the literature found that there is insufficient evidence to support the routine use of supplemental zinc and/or vitamin C in individuals with adequate nutrition. Furthermore, supplemental zinc may produce a number of adverse effects.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)28-32
Number of pages5
JournalAnnals of Long-Term Care
Volume18
Issue number3
StatePublished - Mar 1 2010

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Gerontology
  • Geriatrics and Gerontology

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