Article

Patient handling slings and lifts reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries for
healthcare providers. However, no published evidence exists of their safety with
respect to pressure ulceration for vulnerable populations, specifically persons
with spinal cord injury, nor do any studies compare slings for pressure
distribution. High-resolution interface pressure mapping was used to describe and
quantify risks associated with pressure ulceration due to normal forces and
identify at-risk anatomical locations. We evaluated 23 patient handling slings
with 4 nondisabled adults. Sling-participant interface pressures were recorded
while participants lay supine on a hospital bed and while suspended during
typical patient transfers. Sling-participant interface pressures were greatest
while suspended for all seated and supine slings and exceeded 200 mm Hg for all
seated slings. Interface pressures were greatest along the sling seams (edges),
regardless of position or sling type. The anatomical areas most at risk while
participants were suspended in seated slings were the posterior upper and lower
thighs. For supine slings, the perisacral area, ischial tuberosities, and greater
trochanters were most at risk. The duration of time spent in slings, especially
while suspended, should be limited.

Langue : ANGLAIS