Functional textiles for prevention of pressure ulcers – a review

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to summarize researches conducted related to functional textiles for prevention of pressure ulcers and critical analysis of the outcomes to pave path for the future research in this area for benefit of the patients. Pressure ulcers, also known as bed sores, pressure sores and decubitus ulcers, are localized areas of tissue damage that develop due to pressure usually over a bony prominence. A standard hospital mattress has an interface pressure of 100 mmHg which can result in pressure ulcers unless repositioning occurs at regular intervals. Moisture accumulation on the skin is an important physical factor predisposing a patient to the occurrence of pressure ulcers and tissue breakdown. The disability leads to several requirements of functional clothing and textile products. The textiles play a variety of roles in this concern, from simply having good aesthetic appearance to preventing life threatening risks. An ideal support surface prevents pressure ulcers by providing pressure redistribution and maintaining a healthy skin microenvironment. The use of the textiles for the care of elderly disabled and bedridden persons can play an important role, as their quality of life can be improved by making use of functional and good-looking textiles. Design/methodology/approach This review paper aims to summarize researches conducted related to functional textiles for prevention of pressure ulcers and critical analysis of the outcomes to pave path for the future research in this area for benefit of the patients. Findings In the past years, there have been several functional textiles developed for the prevention of pressure ulcer. They are designed to maintain proper microclimate around patient skin. Sheepskin is one of the oldest used bed overlays which prevent pressure ulcer but its prolonged use leads to uneasy feeling for the patient. A sensor in bed for pressure detection is one of the good alternatives as it provides proper indication on when to change the position of the patient so that the pressure can be shifted and ulcers is prevented. These sensors are costly and complex to setup so for common man they are not easily available. Multilayer textiles on the other hand are complex to make as the properties are dependent upon the fiber content, yarn structure, fabric structure and technique of layering them together. Spacer fabric provides good air and moisture permeability, but there is a scope to study this type of fabric by varying the fibers type and thickness of the spacer fabric. A bedding material which is not much complex and can be easily purchased and used by common man for in-house usage is the need of the hour. Originality/value There is no comprehensive review available regarding research in this area with critical analysis of the outcomes for future study.

Experience-based Modifications of the Bed Band ReAlised through Co-dEsign (EMBRACE)

“…Covering exposed areas of Velcro on the base unit was a priority recommendation to avoid skin irritation and discomfort. The use of multilayer textiles and spacer fabrics was suggested to enhance airflow and maintain an optimal microclimate around the patient’s skin 29. For optimal adoption, diffusion and scaling of the Bed Band, product redesign will be necessary for compatibility with all hospital beds and beds in the community 30.…”

Development of Smart Clothing to Prevent Pressure Injuries in Bedridden Persons and/or with Severely Impaired Mobility: 4NoPressure Research Protocol

“…In recent years, several technologically advanced functional textiles for PI prevention have emerged [29,30]. Smart Textiles for Healthcare (STH) have emerged as a solution for application in various healthcare settings [31].…”

“…Smart Textiles for Healthcare (STH) have emerged as a solution for application in various healthcare settings [31]. In the case of PI management, STH solutions are primarily designed to preserve the proper microclimate around the patient's skin [30]. Despite the possibility of applying this type of fabric for other purposes, studies addressing and validating the STH used to develop clothing to prevent PIs are still in their early stages [29,30].…”

“…In the case of PI management, STH solutions are primarily designed to preserve the proper microclimate around the patient's skin [30]. Despite the possibility of applying this type of fabric for other purposes, studies addressing and validating the STH used to develop clothing to prevent PIs are still in their early stages [29,30]. Therefore, new MDs need to be developed that focus on preventing and reducing the occurrence of PIs and the complications arising from them [32].…”

A Flexible Turning and Sensing System for Pressure Ulcers Prevention

“…In daily care, two hours-per-time-turnover-operation is the main manual intervention method for pressure ulcer prevention, and it should be combined with a suitable decompression support mattress to achieve a good pressure ulcer prevention effect. Regular turning over is still the main method to prevent PU [18,19].…”