Alternating Pressure Pads
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ALTERNATING PRESSURE PADS
Patient/Caregiver Education Material
Altering Pressure Pads are designed to automatically change the pressure points beneath patient every few minutes. This is accomplished by alternately filling and emptying adjacent cells in the pad. This constantly pressure greatly reduces the danger of decubitus ulcers or pressure sores. The caregiver should check this movement daily by placing his or her open hand on the pad for a period of time long enough to allow the system to cycle from full to empty.
The family or caregiver should also inspect the tubing from the pad to the pump daily. It should not be twisted, pinched, or kinked. Particular attention should be given to the ends of the tubes where they attached to the pad. This area is usually hidden by the sheet and is the most likely location of restricted airflow.
An overall visual inspection of the pad should be made each time the bed linens are changed. If the pad is ever removed from the bed, for any reason, care should be exercised to place it back on the bed with the proper side up. Pads with a “top” and “bottom” side will be marked in some way to designate that there is a top and bottom.
- No pins of any kind should be used in the bedding.
- Hot objects such as heating pads should not be placed on the alternating pressure pad. Heated under-blankets should not be used with the APP system.
- Solvents such as alcohol should not come into contact with the surface of the pad. Use a mild detergent and water for cleaning.
- Caution must be exercised when providing bed care such as bathing the patient, so as not to expose the pump unit to accidental spills. The pump unit should not be exposed to liquids or moisture from open windows, aerosols, or any other source.
- The power cord should not be allowed to come into contact with hot surfaces such as a heat register, and it should always be kept clear of the moving parts of the hospital bed.
- If unusual noises are heard coming from the pump unit, or if the pressure is not alternating properly please discontinue use and call our office immediately.
Please review the equipment user manual provided for more detailed instructions regarding your new equipment or contact our office. Thank you.