Choosing the right pressure care products
Here we will advise you of some of the different types of pressure care products available to assist in the care of individual patients who are at risk or have developed pressure sores.
Pressure care products come in various forms and are designed to provide support, comfort, and pressure redistribution for individuals at risk of developing pressure ulcers. Here are the different types of pressure care products:
Pressure Redistribution Mattresses:
Foam Mattresses: These mattresses use various types of foam, such as memory foam, polyurethane foam, or high-resilience foam, to provide even weight distribution and support.
Air Mattresses: Air mattresses use air-filled chambers or cells to dynamically adjust pressure and redistribute weight to different areas of the body.
Gel Mattresses: Gel mattresses use gel-infused foam or gel-filled chambers to conform to the body's shape and reduce pressure on vulnerable areas.
Hybrid Mattresses: These mattresses combine different technologies, such as foam and air, to offer optimized pressure redistribution and support.
Pressure-Relieving Mattress Overlays:
Mattress overlays are placed on top of existing mattresses to enhance pressure redistribution and provide additional support and comfort.
Overlay materials can include foam, gel, or air-filled cells.
Pressure-Relieving Cushions:
Seat cushions designed for chairs, wheelchairs, or mobility aids to reduce pressure on the buttocks and thighs.
Cushions can be made from foam, gel, or air cells, and they come in various shapes and sizes.
Heel Protectors:
Specialised devices or pads provide pressure relief and protection for the heels, as the heels are susceptible to pressure ulcers for bedridden patients.
Positioning Aids:
These aids help maintain proper body alignment and reduce pressure on specific body parts during repositioning and transfers.
Examples include foam wedges, rolls, and positioning pillows.
Pressure-Relieving Boots and Splints:
Designed to reduce pressure on the feet or limbs, especially for patients in traction or with limited mobility.
Dynamic Air Mattress Systems:
Advanced air mattress systems that use alternating pressure technology to cyclically inflate and deflate air cells, promoting blood flow and pressure redistribution.
Low Air Loss Mattresses:
These mattresses have air-filled cells with tiny vent holes that allow a controlled flow of air to keep the skin dry and reduce moisture-related skin breakdown.
Pressure-Relieving Overlays for Specific Body Areas:
Products designed to provide pressure relief to specific vulnerable areas, such as the head, heels, elbows, and coccyx.
Skin Protection Creams and Moisturizers:
Skincare products designed to protect the skin and maintain its integrity by preventing dryness and friction.
It's essential to choose the appropriate pressure care product based on the individual's specific needs, risk level, and medical condition. Healthcare professionals should conduct a thorough assessment and consider factors such as mobility, weight, skin condition, and comfort to ensure the best fit for the patient's requirements.
