Pressure Care Equipment FAQs
What is pressure care equipment?
Pressure care equipment includes mattresses, cushions, heel protectors and positioning aids designed to prevent pressure ulcers (bedsores) by redistributing body weight, relieving pressure on vulnerable areas.
Who needs pressure care equipment?
Anyone at risk of pressure ulcers, including bed-bound patients, wheelchair users, elderly residents with limited mobility, diabetics, those with poor circulation, malnutrition, previous pressure sores, or anyone assessed as medium-to-very-high risk.
What's the difference between pressure cushions and pressure mattresses?
Pressure cushions are used on wheelchairs and chairs for seated pressure relief, while pressure mattresses are used on beds for full-body pressure redistribution during lying positions.
How do I choose pressure care equipment?
Selection depends on pressure ulcer risk level (use Waterlow or Braden scale assessment), patient mobility level, and whether the patient is primarily in bed or seated. Higher risk patients require more advanced dynamic pressure systems.
Do heel protectors really work?
Yes, heel protectors are clinically proven to prevent heel pressure ulcers by suspending the heel off the mattress surface, eliminating pressure.
