Support surface
Support Surface
Support surface (pronunciation: /səˈpɔːrt ˈsɜːrfɪs/) is a specialized overlay on a mattress, bed, or chair that is designed to either prevent or treat pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores.
Etymology
The term "support surface" is derived from the English words "support" and "surface". "Support" comes from the Latin word "supportare", meaning "to carry, convey, bring". "Surface" comes from the French word "surface", which is derived from the Latin word "superficies", meaning "the outside, exterior, or appearance of something".
Types of Support Surfaces
There are three main types of support surfaces:
- Reactive Support Surfaces: These surfaces react to the patient's movement and adjust the pressure accordingly. Examples include foam mattresses and gel-filled overlays.
- Active Support Surfaces: These surfaces use a power source to continually alter the degree of pressure applied to the patient's body. Examples include alternating pressure mattresses and low air loss beds.
- Integrated Bed Systems: These are beds with a fully integrated support surface.
Related Terms
- Pressure Ulcer: A pressure ulcer, also known as a bedsore, is a localized injury to the skin and/or underlying tissue usually over a bony prominence, as a result of pressure, or pressure in combination with shear and/or friction.
- Shear Force: Shear force is a force that acts on an object parallel to the surface or plane on which it is acting.
- Friction: Friction is the resistance that one surface or object encounters when moving over another.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Support surface
- Wikipedia's article - Support surface
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