Safeguarding Skin Health: A Comprehensive Guide to the Selection and Use of Pressure Ulcer Pads

Pressure ulcers, a long-standing health challenge for bedridden individuals and wheelchair users, are now effectively controlled through scientific preventive measures. Among these measures, pressure ulcer pads play a crucial role. These seemingly simple pads are actually the crystallization of wisdom integrating materials science, ergonomics, and nursing care.

Understanding the Formation and Prevention Principles of Pressure Ulcers

A pressure ulcer essentially results from impaired blood circulation caused by long-term localized tissue compression. When the skin and subcutaneous tissue are continuously subjected to pressure exceeding the capillary closure pressure, nutrients and oxygen fail to reach cells, and metabolic waste cannot be discharged in a timely manner—ultimately leading to tissue damage. This process typically occurs at bony prominences, such as the sacrococcygeal region, ischial tuberosities, ankles, and heels.

The preventive principle of pressure ulcer pads is based on two core mechanisms: pressure redistribution and microenvironment management. High-quality pressure redistribution pads can redistribute pressure from localized high-pressure points to a larger area, ensuring that the pressure on any single point is below the capillary closure pressure. Meanwhile, breathable materials help regulate the temperature and humidity of the skin surface, reducing additional risks caused by moisture and friction.

Analysis of Types and Characteristics of Pressure Ulcer Pads

Mainstream pressure ulcer pads on the market can be divided into several types, each with unique advantages and applicable scenarios:

Foam pads: The most common economical option, providing basic pressure redistribution through foam structures of varying densities and shapes.

Memory foam pads: Offer personalized support through temperature-sensing properties, conforming better to the body’s curves.

Gel pads: Utilize the fluidity of silicone materials to achieve automatic pressure distribution, while also featuring excellent temperature regulation.

Fiber-filled pads: Typically adopt an adjustable inner core design, allowing customization of support strength based on the user’s weight and needs.

Air-filled pads: Achieve dynamic pressure relief by alternately adjusting the pressure of different air chambers.

Key Factors for Scientific Selection of Pressure Ulcer Pads

Selecting a pressure ulcer pad requires comprehensive consideration of multiple factors:

User’s weight: Directly affects the pad’s support performance. Heavier users require higher-density materials, while lighter users need softer surfaces.

Mobility level: A critical consideration—fully bedridden individuals may need full-body support pads, while wheelchair users require specialized seat cushions.

Risk level: Determines the required protection intensity. High-risk patients may need a combination of multiple pad types or advanced models with dynamic pressure adjustment.

Usage environment: Important to consider the pad’s breathability, water resistance, and ease of cleaning.

Practical Guide: From Assessment to Usage

Proper usage begins with accurate risk assessment:

Use professional tools such as the Braden Scale or Norton Scale for regular assessments to determine the most suitable prevention plan.

Pay special attention to skin integrity, sensory function, and moisture levels during assessments.

Master correct methods for installation and usage:

Ensure the pad is laid flat without wrinkles.

Regularly check for permanent indentations or damage to the pad.

Flip and reposition the pad at frequencies recommended by the manufacturer.

These simple measures can significantly extend the pad’s service life and maintain its protective effect.

Daily maintenance should not be overlooked:

Choose appropriate cleaning methods based on the material; avoid corrosive cleaning agents.

Ensure the pad is completely dry before reuse.

Establish a regular inspection system and replace pads showing signs of aging promptly.

Response Strategies for Special Needs

Personalized solutions are required for different usage scenarios:

Wheelchair seat cushions: Need to prioritize stability, anti-slip properties, and sitting posture balance, while being easy to secure on the wheelchair.

Mattress pads: Require attention to overall support and turning assistance functions; some models also integrate posture monitoring technology.

For patients with existing pressure ulcers:

Select specialized pads based on the wound stage and location.

Special cut-out pads or a combination of multiple pads may be needed to ensure the wound area is completely pressure-free.

In such cases, selection is best done under the guidance of a professional wound care nurse.

Quality Identification and Long-Term Management

High-quality pressure ulcer pads typically have several key characteristics:

Appropriate support and conformability.

Good breathability and heat dissipation.

Durable and easy-to-clean materials.

Compliance with medical device safety standards.

When purchasing, pay attention to checking the product’s pressure distribution test reports and clinical validation data.

Establishing a systematic pressure ulcer prevention plan is more important than simply purchasing equipment. This plan should include regular risk assessments, skin inspections, position change schedules, nutritional support, and staff training. Pressure ulcer pads are just one component of this comprehensive prevention system—important, but not a replacement for other measures.

Innovation Trends and Future Development

Pressure ulcer prevention technology is advancing toward intelligence:

New-generation smart pads integrate pressure-sensing systems to monitor pressure distribution in real time and issue alerts.

Some products also combine IoT technology to sync data to caregivers’ mobile devices.

Advancements in materials science are also bringing new possibilities to this field:

The application of new materials such as phase-change materials and smart gels allows pads to respond more precisely to changes in temperature and pressure.

The development of biodegradable materials aims to address environmental issues related to medical waste.

Conclusion: Prevention Is Better Than Cure

In the fight against pressure ulcers, prevention has always been the most economical and effective strategy. Selecting a suitable pressure ulcer pad and using it correctly can significantly reduce the risk of pressure ulcers and improve the user’s quality of life. This investment not only saves future medical costs but, more importantly, prevents patients from unnecessary suffering.

Remember, the best pressure ulcer pad is the one that meets the user’s specific needs, is used correctly, and is integrated into a complete prevention system. In this process, the caregiver’s professional knowledge, careful observation, and continuous care are just as important as the equipment itself. When we perfectly combine these elements, we can build a strong defense for the skin health of those in need.