What is the Difference Between Pressure-Relieving Equipment and Pressure-Reducing Equipment?
Pressure-reducing equipment aims to provide maximum support of the body surface area, thereby reducing interface pressures over bony prominences. Such equipment is normally referred to as static equipment. The Pressurease mattress is a static mattress. Pressure-relieving equipment aims to give pressure relief over small areas of the body at a time. This is achieved by inflating and deflating air cells alternately. This type of equipment is usually referred to as dynamic equipment. Therefore pressure-reducing equipment gives uniform pressures throughout the whole body, whereas conversely pressure-relieving equipment intermittently relieves pressure under individual areas of the body. Normally, pressure-reducing equipment is provided for patients who are known to be at risk of pressure ulcer development. Dynamic mattresses are provided for patients with existing ulcers, or who are know to be at very high risk of pressure ulcer development.
