Tissue trauma and skin breakdown in the O.R. is a serious problem facing surgical professionals and their patients each day. Prevention of pressure ulcers will help avoid needless pain, suffering, expense and in the worst cases, death. Understanding and identifying the major causes of pressure sores will help professionals provide the best preventive care possible.

Capillary closure is at the root of ulcer formation. The blockage or damage of capillaries prevents the natural maintenance of healthy skin. Without the delivery of oxygen and nutrients and removal of waste, cells die and tissue decays - ulcers form. Providing unrestricted blood flow is imperative in the prevention of ulcers. Pressure and shear are the main causes of capillary closure. When pressure or shear is excessive and or prolonged, the risk of breakdown is highest. Bony prominences are most susceptible to damage, although any area experiencing these conditions is vulnerable.

Taking steps to decrease the negative effects of pressure and shear is critical to preventing ulcers. Heat and humidity are two factors which act as catalysts in the process of skin breakdown. The ability to control these factors and to alleviate the development of “hot spots” at high pressure sites will also help minimise patient risk.

“Action products work to avoid excessive pressure build-up and capillary closure.”

The Solution

Implementing quality protocol which incorporates the use of proper positioning devices is the solution. Preventive care means using Action® pads and positioners which have been part of the solution, world wide, for over 30 years.

Action products work to avoid excessive pressure build-up and capillary closure. Action® products evenly distribute weight and provide constant support beneath patients by not bottoming out! Akton® polymer reduces shear by moving with the skin, not against it. The tissue friendly feel makes it very comfortable. Heat and humidity are controlled by the material’s ability to evenly radiate heat throughout the product. This reduces risk of potentially dangerous “hot spot” development while providing uniform temperature environment for the patient. This ability also makes products ideal for use with heating or cooling blankets

“Infinite positioning protection...”