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The NPUAP through its work of the Support Surface Initiative Committee recently developed new testing standards for pressure redistribution surfaces. These new standards are the first step to allow WOC nurses an “apples to apples” comparison of all commercially available pressure redistribution surfaces.
Purpose:
The purpose of the project was to allow a better understanding how immersion will effect clinical outcomes, including the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers. Immersion is the depth of penetration (sinking) into a support surface and is important for pressure redistribution.
The objective of the project was to test three surfaces in a climate controlled, independent laboratory as measured by immersion qualities such as the total percentage of immersion.
Methods:
Immersion is measured by following the Mattress Immersion Test Protocol:
- Condition the room per ISO standards for temperature and humidity
- Utilize the appropriate test apparatus for immersion testing including the rigid version of the NPUAP 50th percentile male test mannequin
- Using the Test bed fixture and pulley system
- Adjusting the weight necessary to achieve a mannequin weight of 178.8 pounds
- Using a Digitizing Arm attached to test apparatus to measure depth of immersion obtained on each test surface
Outcomes:
Three surfaces were tested. The first a foam/air combination mattress which showed a 28% of total immersion. The second, low air loss/ immersion mattress
with 39% of total immersion and the third, a high output low air loss/immersion mattress with a greater than 70% of total immersion.
Recommendations:
As more surfaces are tested for the total percentage of immersion, more research will be needed to better understand how these immersion percentages will translate into clinical outcomes such as the number and severity of pressure ulcers. Combined with other new testing standards such as moisture evaporation, a common language will be developed.