4. Discussion and conclusion
ischemia
ISCHEMIA, PRESSURE INJURY
In this study, on using 3ST for preventing nasal pressure injury associated with NTI, we observed a significant difference in the frequency of nasal pressure injury from the nasal tip to the nasal alar between the groups. Generally, nasal pressure injury during NTI is caused by local ischemia between the nasal columella and alar because of the continuous pressure exerted by the tracheal tube. Moreover, nasotracheal tubes are closely associated with medical device-related pressure injuries.In previous studies on the use of hydrocolloid dressing for the prevention of nasal pressure injury associated with NTI, the preventive effect ranged from 56.7% to 95%.3ST is a multidirectional, stretchable, and thick dressing. It is conformable and adheres gently yet securely to uneven surfaces. Moreover, it is water resistant, free of natural rubber latex, and hypoallergenic foam-based elastic tape. However, as 3ST has strong adhesiveness, the possibility of the adhesive substance getting on the skin cannot be denied. Nevertheless, it is considered a suitable tape for pressure and dressing fixation.As shown in Table Other risk factors for nasal pressure injury during NTI included gender, prolonged operating time, and long intensive care unit stay.This study has several limitations. First, several anesthesiologists were involved in the tape fixation in both groups. Although the tape fixation methods were standardized to the maximum possible extent before initiating the study, individual differences were undeniable. Second, several healthy young patients participated in this study, and we do not know whether the results of this study apply to all age groups. Finally, this study is not a direct comparison between 3ST and hydrocolloid dressing. Future comparative studies between 3ST and hydrocolloid dressing are warranted. In conclusion, 3ST prevents nasal pressure injury associated with NTI. In addition, using 3ST is less expensive than hydrocolloid dressing.