17/06/2008 - Pressure care is an important area in all aspects of health care, including geriatric care, rehabilitation, general hospital and home care.
Bed sores, pressure sores, or 'decubitus ulcers', are not only uncomfortable for patients, but they ultimately end up costing a great deal of money, time and effort to heal.
In some cases they could even lead to amputation. Common areas for pressure sores are the coccyx, heel and other bone-prominent areas.
Where possible, the company incorporates special foam in its products to help encourage blood flow. Its range includes items such as Pressure Relief Cushions, Heel and Elbow Protectors or 'booties', and Cushions for Shower Chairs.
Also included in its range are compression Stocking Sliders, used to help people with Lymphoedema (or Hodgkin's Disease) who have trouble putting on compression stockings.
The Pressure Relief Cushion This cushion is a general purpose cushion made with a top layer of convoluted foam, as used in the Pressure Relief Overlay Mattress. The lower layer is flat foam to increase the thickness of the cushion. By having the convoluted upper foam, this should help pressure problems, as each time the patient sits down, they may be sitting differently on either a high or low section.
The Pressure Relief Cushion is supplied with a water resistant outer cover that has a covered vent and zip to prevent urine from entering the vent. Corner ties are provided to secure the cushion in position on a chair frame. Do not tie to the chair arms. The cover unzips for washing. The cushion should fit most wheelchairs and can be used on other chairs as well.
The cushions are provided with a polythene sleeve. This is supplied in case a patient with a high acid content in their urine, is left on the cushion, long enough for the acid to damage the waterproof coating on the material. If the polythene is not needed it can be easily removed. The nylon cover is less likely to become sweaty and therefore is more comfortable than vinyl.
This product is designed to help with the prevention of pressure sores. Sometimes, due to the patient deteriorating, the product may become unsuitable. Continuous monitoring is necessary and alternative products may be recommended.
Washing: Normal cleaning by wiping with mild detergent - cover can be removed for hand washing or mild gentle washing. Use synthetic detergent & cool iron. Do not use soap, tumble dry or scrub with nylon brush.
(Stitching may allow seepage, urine must be cleaned off immediately as excessive acid content may affect water resistant coating)
