Pressure Care in a Lift Chair
Pressure care in a Lift Chair by Ambassador. When it comes to the topic of immobility, pressure care quickly follows in the line of healthcare priorities. Without regular movement, the body is subject to skin irritation and breakdown that, if left unaddressed, can lead to serious medical consequences. Ambassador presents several recliner options that provide users with optimal pressure care to prevent avoidable skin breakdown and further discomfort or associated complications.
The importance behind Pressure Care for Adults with Reduced Mobility
Pressure injuries in Australia and New Zealand account for just under 13% of cases in acute hospitals, and 7.9% are acquired in hospital settings (Rodgers et al., 2020). The pressure sores, or decubitus ulcers, are diagnosed in stages, stage I being the most superficial and Stage IV being sores worn through muscle/tendon tissue and exposing bone.
If left untreated, pressure sores can work through the skin all the way down to bony surfaces which heightens the affected person’s chances for infection. Approximately 60,000 people die every year due to complications from pressure sores. Persons who have pressure ulcers are 4.5 times greater chance of death than their counterparts(Kirman, 2020).
Hotspots on the body for skin breakdown
The most frequent locations for pressure injuries include the coccyx (tailbone), sacrum, buttocks, and heels (Rodgers et al., 2020). Sores are also known to form along other bony prominences such as the elbows, the hips, and the ears. Individuals who are thin may also acquire pressure sores in places others may not such as along the spine and the scapulae (shoulder bones).
What a Pressure Care Routine looks Like
A pressure care routine includes a schedule for repositioning and ensuring regular hygiene and care for the skin. For persons who have restricted mobility, repositioning should take place every 15 minutes. Shifting the weight in a chair or moving the body in bed so that the same skin surface is lifted away from the material. Prolonged pressure against a bed or a cushion can increase a person’s chances for developing or worsening a pressure sore.
Sitting and reclining surfaces should be wrinkle-free or frequently inspected for wrinkles and properly readjusted. Fabrics such as pillowcases and sheets should be regularly sanitized to prevent infection.
How the Ambassador Recliner assists with Pressure Care
Ambassador recliners come with several positioning features that aid in pressure care. Each chair is equipped with a recline at multiple angles and footrest features that can be adjusted to any elevation. Repositioning features working together to help the user accomplish regular pressure-relieving stances throughout the day.
Types of Pressure Care Inserts that are Compatible with the Chair
Ambassador recliners are compatible with numerous pressure-relieving cushions. Cushion options such as Roho, and foam/ gel combo can be fitted into the seat. Giving the user freedom to choose their preferred seating cushion while offering a safe recliner where the cushion won’t slide or fall out. Ambassador custom makes their chairs and offers pressure care in a lift chair to suit everyone.
Infection control- Preserving Skin integrity
To prevent infection, Ambassador recliners also come with custom 4-way stretch fabric that is easy to clean and keeps the wrinkles at bay. The user can sit in the chair for long periods of time without having to readjust cushion cases or other fabrics, and users and caregivers can wash fabrics regularly without wearing or wrecking the material. Offering a custom pressure care lift chair.
Tips for Caregivers: Spotting the beginning stages of Pressure Sores
Recliner users and their caregivers continue regular inspection for forming pressure sores. Daily, inspect all the hotspots for pressure sore development. Be on the lookout for red or discolored patches of skin that are rough, warm hard, and/or spongy to the touch. Consult with a physician if you are unsure about whether you are developing pressure sores or not.
Pressure care is crucial for individuals who have limited mobility. Complete regular routines and use tools and products that can prevent sores from getting out of hand. Ambassador recliner chairs come with tools and support that aid the user and their caregivers in preventing unnecessary pressure-related injuries.
We modify the standard chair and incorporate pressure care in the lift chair post-purchase.
References
Kirman, C.M. (M.D.). (2020). What is the mortality rate for pressure injuries (pressure ulcers)? Medscape. https://www.medscape.com/answers/190115-82434/what-is-the-mortality-rate-for-pressure-injuries-pressure-ulcers#:~:text=Each%20year%2C%20approximately%2060%2C000%20people,risk%20of%20mortality%20to%2055%25..
Rodgers, K., Sim, J., & Clifton, R. (2020). A systematic review of pressure injury prevalence in Australian and New Zealand hospitals. Collegian, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colegn.2020.08.012
