Preventing pressure ulcers, commonly known as bedsores, is crucial for those who are bedridden or have limited mobility. An alternating pressure mattress for bedsores is an effective solution for avoiding these painful injuries. In this article, we’ll explore how these specialized mattresses work, the causes of pressure sores, and why using bedsore prevention products is an ideal choice to keep patients comfortable and protected.
Understanding Pressure Ulcers and Bedsores
Pressure ulcers are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure on the skin, typically developing on areas like the heels, hips, and tailbone.
Stages of Pressure Ulcers:
- Stage 1: Red, irritated skin that doesn’t blanch when touched.
- Stage 2: Open sore or blister, showing partial skin loss.
- Stage 3: Deep wound, exposing fat tissue.
- Stage 4: Severe wound exposing muscle or bone.
Common Causes:
- Prolonged Pressure: Continuous pressure reduces blood flow, causing tissue damage.
- Friction: Skin rubbing against bedding can cause irritation.
- Shear: When skin moves in one direction and bones move in the other, it leads to deeper damage.
Why Avoiding Bed Sores Is Crucial
- Health Impact: Pressure ulcers can lead to severe infections and increase the risk of conditions like sepsis and cellulitis. Avoiding bed sores is essential for maintaining health and preventing prolonged hospital stays.
- Quality of Life: Bedsores are painful and can significantly impact a patient’s comfort. Preventing them with solutions like an alternating pressure mattress helps ensure better well-being and minimizes discomfort.
- Economic Burden: Treating pressure sores requires specialized care, which is both time-consuming and costly. Preventive measures of pressure sores, such as using a medical air mattress, can save on healthcare expenses.
The Ideal Solution: Alternating Air Pressure Pad
For patients at risk of developing pressure ulcers, using a specialized medical air mattress for bed sores is highly effective. Lunderg’s Alternating Air Pressure Mattress Pad With Pump offers numerous features to protect against pressure sores.
Key Features:
- Alternating Pressure: By inflating and deflating different sections, this alternating pressure mattress redistributes pressure across the body, preventing skin breakdown.
- Flock-Tech Surface: The soft, comfortable surface reduces friction, providing relief and extra comfort for bedridden patients.
- Easy to Install: Simply place the pad on top of the mattress, connect the pump and choose the desired setting.
- Static Mode: This feature offers stability when needed, which is helpful during medical procedures or when extra support is required.
How It Works
In our article “How does an Alternating Pressure Pad work” we go more into detail, but basically, the alternating pressure technology helps redistribute weight to avoid pressure on any one area for too long, promoting healthy blood circulation and reducing the risk of tissue damage.
Flock-Tech Material: This feature adds a velvety feel that minimizes friction and keeps the skin cool and dry, essential for preventing irritation and bedsores.
Static Mode: When a stable surface is necessary, static mode prevents movement, providing additional support to those in need of extra stability.
Tips for Preventing Pressure Ulcers
- Regular Repositioning: To prevent bed sores in the elderly you should ensure that patients are repositioned every two hours to relieve pressure on vulnerable areas. One tool that helps repositioning is a bedsore pillow.
- Skin Hygiene: Keep skin clean and dry, inspecting daily for early signs of pressure ulcers.
- Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals helps maintain skin health, reducing the risk of pressure sores.
- Use Supportive Devices: For added comfort and protection, consider using an alternating pressure pad for patients who are in bed for extended periods.
Conclusion
Preventing pressure ulcers is crucial for maintaining the health and comfort of bedridden individuals. Using an alternating pressure mattress for bedsores, can significantly reduce the risk of bedsores and improve the patient’s overall quality of life. Its combination of alternating pressure, comfort-enhancing features, and ease of use makes it an essential tool for those at risk of developing pressure sores.
