Under Pressure: Choosing the Right Support Surface

When it comes to the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers, choosing the right support surface is key. According to Tag F-314, facilities should match a device's potential therapeutic benefit with a resident's specific situation. The effectiveness of a pressure redistribution device is based on its potential to address the individual resident's risk, the resident’s response to the product and the characteristics and condition of the product.¹


There are two primary types of support surfaces¹:

Static pressure redistribution devices are non-powered devices that may be indicated when a resident is at risk for pressure ulcer development or delayed healing. These devices include:

• Solid foam
• Gel-infused foam
• Convoluted foam (i.e., channel-cut or "egg crate" foam)
• Gel mattresses

Dynamic pressure reduction surfaces are powered devices that are indicated if a resident can't move into a variety of positions without placing weight on a pressure ulcer, if their weight completely compresses a static device that otherwise maintains its original integrity or if they have a pressure ulcer that is not healing as expected and it is determined that pressure could be contributing to the delay. Dynamic pressure reduction surfaces include:

• Alternating pressure mattresses and overlays
• Low air loss systems

Professional Medical stocks a comprehensive selection of both static and dynamic pressure reduction and redistribution surfaces, including the new Dynamic Elite Mattress^™ with Visco Gel Technology^™. Your territory manager is ready to help you choose the products that best meet your residents' needs! Give us a call at (800) 648-5190 to learn more.

Reference
1 Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. State Operations Manual Appendix PP – Guidance to Surveyors for Long Term Care Facilities (Rev. 70-01-07-11). Available at: http://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Manuals/downloads/
som107ap_pp_guidelines_ltcf.pdf Accessed July 5, 2012.