Off Loading Flashcards
What is the definition of a support surface, and what are the types?
- Definition:
- A specialized device for pressure redistribution designed for managing tissue loads, microclimate, and other therapeutic functions.
- Types:
- mattresses
- integrated bed systems
- mattress replacements
- mattress overlays
- seat cushions
What is interface pressure, and what is the breakdown pressure for tissue?
Interface pressure:
- The force per unit area that acts perpendicularly between the patient’s body and the support surface.
Breakdown pressure:
- 32 mm Hg is considered the threshold for tissue breakdown due to pressure.
What is the difference between pressure-reducing and pressure-relieving devices, and what are examples of the latter?
Pressure-reducing devices:
- Reduce pressure to 23–32 mm Hg.
Pressure-relieving devices:
- Decrease pressure below 23 mm Hg.
Examples:
- low-air-loss mattresses
- aternating pressure mattresses
- lateral rotation beds
What is the purpose of pressure mapping, and how is it performed?
Purpose: To assess how interface pressure affects tissue loading.
Performance: Sensors approximate pressure on tissues by measuring the force per unit area acting perpendicularly.
What are the indications for Class 1 support surfaces, and what are examples?
Indications:
- For patients who cannot turn or move themselves to relieve pressure on bony prominences or have a pressure ulcer on the pelvis or trunk with additional risk factors like impaired nutrition, incontinence, or altered sensory perception.
Examples:
- gel overlays
- standard foam mattresses (3–5 inches thick)
- egg crate mattresses
What are the indications for Class 2 support surfaces, and what are examples?
Indications: For patients with…
- multiple pressure ulcers on the pelvis or trunk
- large stage III or IV ulcers
- recent skin grafting/myocutaneous flap surgery
Examples:
- low-air-loss mattresses
- alternating pressure mattresses
- lateral rotation beds
What are the indications for Class 3 support surfaces, and what is their primary function?
Indications:
- For bedridden or chair-bound patients with stage III or IV pressure ulcers who have not improved with Class 2 surfaces after at least 30 days of conservative treatment.
Function:
- Air Fluid Beds: Redistribute pressure via a fluid-like medium created by forcing air through beads, allowing immersion and envelopment.
What are the primary considerations for selecting a support surface?
Considerations: Pressure redistribution, shear reduction, continence, temperature and moisture control, patient mobility, body weight, and tissue condition.
What is the recommended schedule for turning or repositioning immobile patients, and how can a ‘turn clock’ help?
Schedule: Reposition every 1–2 hours, or every 4 hours if using a viscoelastic foam mattress.
Turn clock: A visual reminder to ensure consistent repositioning for pressure relief.
What are three methods for wheelchair pressure relief, and how often should they be performed?
Methods:
- Push-up relief (off-loads the buttocks)
- Forward lean (reduces pressure on ischial tuberosities)
- Side lean (off-loads one side, performed bilaterally)
Frequency: Every 15–30 minutes for at least 30–90 seconds.
What is the definition of a support surface, and what are the types?
Definition: A specialized device for pressure redistribution designed for managing tissue loads, microclimate, and other therapeutic functions.
Types: Mattresses, integrated bed systems, mattress replacements, mattress overlays, and seat cushions.
What is interface pressure, and what is the breakdown pressure for tissue?
Interface pressure: The force per unit area that acts perpendicularly between the patient’s body and the support surface.
Breakdown pressure: 32 mm Hg is considered the threshold for tissue breakdown due to pressure.
What is the difference between pressure-reducing and pressure-relieving devices, and what are examples of the latter?
Pressure-reducing devices: Reduce pressure to 23–32 mm Hg.
Pressure-relieving devices: Decrease pressure below 23 mm Hg.
Examples: Low-air-loss mattresses, alternating pressure mattresses, and lateral rotation beds.
What is the purpose of pressure mapping, and how is it performed?
Purpose: To assess how interface pressure affects tissue loading.
Performance: Sensors approximate pressure on tissues by measuring the force per unit area acting perpendicularly.
What are the indications for Class 1 support surfaces, and what are examples?
Indications: For patients who cannot turn or move themselves to relieve pressure on bony prominences or have a pressure ulcer on the pelvis or trunk with additional risk factors like impaired nutrition, incontinence, or altered sensory perception.
Examples: Gel overlays, standard foam mattresses (3–5 inches thick), and egg crate mattresses.
