Pressure Relief Device
For patients who are bedridden or have limited mobility, pressure relief devices are essential for preventing the development of painful and dangerous pressure ulcers. These devices work by redistributing the patient's weight over a larger surface area, reducing the direct pressure on bony prominences like the heels, hips, and tailbone.
Pressure ulcers occur when prolonged pressure cuts off the blood flow to the skin and underlying tissue, leading to tissue death (ischemia). Relief devices, such as specialized foam, gel, or air-filled mattresses, help maintain blood flow and prevent the cascade of damage that can lead to deep, infected wounds.
The most common type of pressure relief is "static" surface technology. High-specification foam mattresses are designed to "contour" to the patient's body, increasing the contact area and lowering the peak pressure on any one spot. Gel-filled cushions are often used in wheelchairs to provide similar protection for the "sitting bones." These…