Domiciliary Equipment Service

Pressure Redistributing Cushions Fact Sheet

General Principles of Pressure Care

  • A pressure injury is what happens when skin becomes damaged because of ongoing pressure to an area on your body. This may start as a red area which doesn’t go away, but may become an open wound.
  • There are special cushions called “pressure redistribution cushions”, which can be given to a person to help reduce the chance of getting a pressure injury.
  • Pressure redistribution cushions aim to spread a person’s weight over a larger surface area, and assist in reducing the potential development of a pressure injury.
  • In addition to your cushion, it is important to regularly change your body position.
  • You should keep your skin skin clean and dry.
  • Make sure the surface of cushion needs is clean, dry and crease-free.
  • Avoid scraping or pulling the skin when moving.
  • Avoid tight clothing, rough materials and thick seams.
  • Placing a Rigidiser underneath the cushion may maximise effectiveness of the cushion.

Types of Cushions

The choice of pressure cushion is determined by the level of pressure relief / reduction and the amount of postural support needed. The following basic types: FOAM – cut, layered or moulded, GEL – fluid or solid, AIR, or combinations of these.

Instructions for Use

Ensure the cushion is placed with the correct side facing up. Moulded and cut foam should have the cut /moulded face on top. Dual foam should have softest foam on top.

Ensure the front of the cushion faces forward. Cushion covers must always be on and often have tags to indicate front from back.

Do not place materials (eg. Sheepskin, absorbent sheeting, towels) on top of the cushion. This will reduce the pressure redistributing effects of the cushion.

Maintenance and care

Cleaning and care instructions will vary according to type of the cushion. Refer to manufacturers instructions (if provided). Look for specific instructions on: Cleaning (including products to use), Drying, Storage (including heat tolerance), Replacement and transporting the product.

Many air cushions come with a pump to allow you to ensure the amount of air in the cushion is correct. You should receive training from your therapist on how to do this adequately. Cushions should be checked daily.

Please be aware that urine will damage your cushion and should be cleaned from cushion as quickly as possible.

General Guidelines (where manufacturer’s instructions have not been provided):

Washing:Removable covers, gently hand wash the cover in lukewarm water. Rinse well (to avoid soap becoming trapped in the cover, which may cause skin irritation).

Foam – gently sponge wash as necessary.

Drying:Do not place any products in the dryer, as this may cause damage.

Dry out of direct sunlight. Foam may take up to 3 days, and it is essential that the foam is completely dry before use.

Replacement:

Foam cushionsoverlays need to be replaced when worn. Look for thinning, bottoming out, perishing, or creasing of the foam.

Precautions

  • Avoid puncture with sharp objects and cigarettes.
  • Do not smoke near the pressure cushion.
  • Do not use the cushion without a cover if this is provided.
  • If incontinence is an issue various options are available, please discuss with your therapist.
  • If the cushion is losing air rapidly, notify your service provider contact person or DES immediately.

Weight Tolerance

Equipment is weight tested to Australian Standards and has limited weight tolerances. If you experience significant weight gain the equipment may become unsafe, please advise DES if you have significantly gained weight.

Cushion Covers

A second cushion cover may be provided on request where a person has a requirement for this due to need for very frequent laundering.

General Enquiries

If you experience problems with your equipment please contact DOMICILIARY EQUIPMENT SERVICE (DES):

Ph: 1300 295 786 or Fax 1300 295 839or Repairs and Maintenance: Ph: 1300 130 302

DES Pressure Redistributing Cushions Fact Sheet | Last Updated: 29 March20161

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