New Products and Industry News
New cushion expands seating solutions
Span-America Medical Systems, Inc. (Greenville, SC) introduces The Equalizer™ contoured positioning cushion. Its multi-component construction features a viscoelastic "memory foam" top, a contoured foundation layer for proper positioning of the legs, and a relief zone for high-risk bony prominences. Three zones of a proprietary, gel-like soft polymer provide added pressure dispersion under the thighs, greater trochanters, and ischial/tailbone regions. The cushion's moisture-resistant cover has a nylon bottom with a two-way stretch fabric top and a front carry handle. Available in four standard sizes, the cushion weighs an average of 4 lb. It is recognized for reimbursement under Medicare code E0192.
For more information, call (800) 888-6752 or email info@spanamerica.com.
Pressure ulcer therapy/pain relief
Carital Air-Float System® reactive mattress replacement surfaces (Carital USA, Akron, Ohio), with 12 years of proven performance in Europe and Japan, are now available in North America. The reactive technology features a patented air-cell structure, microprocessor controller, and specialty cover. The upper tunnel-shaped cells adapt to different body contours, providing large contact area with the user's body to reduce interface pressure and shear. Three to five reactive zones of interconnected inner cells automatically adjust to patient weight and position exchanges, distributing the load evenly over the whole surface for enhanced pressure reduction in all positions. The closed system provides additional benefits for patients with somatic pain.
For information, call (888) 845-6170 or email anthonyr@caritalusa.com.
Pouch stabilizer available
SNUGostomy (Snugs, Gainesville, Ga.) is a pouch stabilizer that requires no additional adhesive. Composed of cotton and breathable mesh, it is light-weight, washable, and reusable. The one-size-fits-all accommodates all size pouches.
For more information, please call (800) 97-SNUGS.
Bariatric support mattress reduces risk of pressure ulcers
Kinetic Concepts, Inc (KCI, San Antonio, Tex.) introduced the Comfort & Support Mattress- for its BariKare® bariatric patient care system. The mattress provides front entry and exit, expandable surface width up to 54", and integrated scales for the care and management of people up to 850 lb. The individual support columns allow proper patient submersion into the mattress and can help reduce shear forces. The foot section is constructed of visco-elastic foam to further protect heal tissue. The mattress meets Cal 129 standards.
For information, contact Bruce Allen, product Manager, at 210/255-6774.
FDA approves surgical glue as antibacterial aid
Ethicon, a Division of Johnson and Johnson (Somerville, NJ) announced that the Food and Drug Administration approved the use of Dermabond, a glue designed to close surgical cuts without stitches, to keep bacteria out of wounds as well. The new labeling will include information that the glue keeps out bacteria as long as it is intact. The glue seals out infection-causing bacteria, including Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, and Enterococci.
Cleansing products being trialed
Derma Sciences Inc. (Princeton, NJ) has made initial shipments of its newly licensed Soft Wash® patient care products, and hospital and nursing home trials have been increasing faster than anticipated. The product is a dehydrated sponge impregnated with a hypoallergenic sodium laurel sulfate derivative and moisturizers for use as a no-rinse beside bath for patients in acute care, long-term care, and home health settings. More than 25 separate ongoing product trials include hospitals, nursing homes, and veterans' facilities throughout eastern and midwestern sections of the United States.
