Residents at risk for decubitus ulcers are affected by several factors; nutrition, excessive moisture, shearing forces and excessive pressure. Skil-Care™ has addressed decubitus ulcer prevention by developing a line of Bed Positioning products to help minimize shearing forces, maximize support areas and where needed off-load susceptible areas of concern. In cases where decubitus ulcers have erupted it is important to reposition often by off-loading the affected area.
The use of bed rails is controversial among health care professionals. Some assert that the products are restraints that invade residents rights and introduce the risk of entrapment of arms and legs within the rail bars.
In contrast, many caregivers prefer to use bed rails to prevent bed falls and also to provide assistance in resident positioning (enabler). No matter what the preference, caregivers agree that when bed rails are used, safety is enhanced with the use of bed rail pads. Skil-Care™ bed rail pads include unique models that either prevent entrapment, minimize space between rail and mattress (15"H or wedged models) or address resident's rights (models with windows). In addition to providing 15"H bed rail pads, some models are 2" thick to minimize the gap between the mattress and rail. |
