The Science Behind Pressure Injuries
Pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores, occur when sustained pressure on the skin reduces blood flow to the area, leading to tissue damage. According to the 2019 International Pressure Ulcer/Injury Guideline, pressure injuries are “localised damage to the skin an/or underlying tissue, as a result of pressure”. The most susceptible individuals are those with limited mobility, such as the elderly or those recovering from surgery. Research indicates that regular repositioning is crucial in preventing these injuries. According to a study by McInnes et al. (2015), “regularly changing a person’s lying or sitting position is the best way to prevent pressure ulcers.” This emphasises that no matter how plush the mattress, if a person remains in the same position for too long, they are at risk.
Air Mattresses: Not the Holy Grail
Air mattresses, particularly those designed to redistribute pressure, are often marketed as advanced solutions for pressure injury prevention. These mattresses can be categorised into two types: reactive surfaces that maintain constant pressure and active surfaces that alternate pressure. While active air mattresses can reduce pressure on certain body parts, they do not eliminate the need for repositioning. A review by Naylor et al. (2018) highlighted that “active, air-filled surfaces may reduce the risk of pressure ulcers developing when compared with foam surfaces” but cautioned that they might increase risks among certain populations, such as nursing home residents, when compared to surfaces that apply constant pressure.
The Repositioning Revolution
The crux of effective pressure injury prevention is movement. A study by McGough et al. (2017) noted that “most pressure ulcers arise from sitting or lying in the same position for a long time without moving.” Even the International Guidelines emphasise that no support surface, regardless of its sophistication, can provide complete pressure relief. As stated in the guidelines, “Pressure is always applied to some area of the skin. Turning and repositioning for pressure redistribution must therefore occur regularly.” The frequency of repositioning might vary depending on the mattress, but ultimately, the individual’s response to pressure should dictate how often repositioning occurs. High-risk individuals with poor tissue tolerance may require more frequent turning. This underscores that even the most advanced air mattresses cannot replace the necessity of regular movement; the human body is not designed to remain static, and without repositioning, even the best mattress can’t save the day.
LenexaCARE®: The Future of Pressure Injury Prevention
Enter LenexaCARE®, a cutting-edge system developed by Lenexa Medical, which leverages advanced technology to provide continuous, real-time monitoring and proactive care. Unlike traditional air mattresses, LenexaCARE® continuously monitors the patient’s position, movement, and pressure accumulation using in-built sensing capabilities and smart software. This real-time data allows caregivers to detect early signs of pressure injuries and intervene promptly, ensuring timely intervention and reducing the incidence of severe pressure injuries. Additionally, LenexaCARE® provides automated alerts to caregivers when a patient is at risk, acting as a second pair of eyes and allowing for more informed decision-making. This system not only enhances patient comfort, but also integrates seamlessly with existing hospital infrastructure, making it a comprehensive solution for pressure injury prevention.
So, what’s the takeaway?
While air mattresses might offer temporary relief, they are not a panacea for pressure injuries. The real heroes in this narrative are the caregivers and technologies like LenexaCARE® which prioritise regular and effective repositioning. Investing in a fancy air mattress is like buying an expensive car but never taking it for a drive. It’s the action of movement that truly drives the prevention of pressure injuries.
Let’s not get too cosy with the idea that a surface alone can keep pressure injuries at bay. The reality is; the best way to prevent pressure injuries is not just about what you lie on, but ensuring you change your position to offload. So, let’s keep moving and stay healthy!
Reference
European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (EPUAP), National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP) & Pan Pacific Pressure Injury Alliance (PPPIA). (2019). Prevention and Treatment of Pressure Ulcers/Injuries: Clinical Practice Guideline. EPUAP/NPIAP/PPPIA.
McGough, C., McCarthy, G., & O’Neill, L. (2017). The role of repositioning in the prevention of pressure ulcers: An integrative review. Journal of Wound Care, 26(3), pp. 112-118.
McInnes, E., Jammali-Blasi, A., & Bell-Syer, S.E. (2015). Support surfaces for pressure ulcer prevention. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2015(9). DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001735.pub4.Naylor, W., Firth, J., & Houghton, P.E. (2018). The effectiveness of active versus reactive support surfaces for the prevention of pressure ulcers: A systematic review. International Wound Journal, 15(4), pp. 565-579.
