Hands-On Learning: Unicare Equips ECU Occupational Therapy Students with Pressure Care Cushion Knowledge
In another series of engaging workshops, Edith Cowan University's Occupational Therapy students teamed up with Unicare to explore the fascinating world of pressure care technology. They engaged in hands-on activities, learning about innovative cushions and their benefits. With expert guidance and delicious Krispy Kreme treats fueling their enthusiasm, students left energized and ready to tackle their future careers!
Seating and Pressure Care Training
Edith Cowan University, Joondalup
Wednesday, 16 October 2024
We were delighted to facilitate another series of student workshops for ECU's occupational therapy assistive technology unit. Our clinical educator and trainer, Annette Dumble leveraged her extensive experience to introduce students to seating and pressure care cushion technology, providing numerous real-world examples throughout her presentations.
Comprehensive Approach to Pressure Injury Risk Assessment
Annette emphasized the critical importance of conducting a thorough investigation into every aspect of a client's daily routine when assessing pressure injury risks. She encouraged students to adopt a holistic view, considering a wide range of factors that impact an individual's risk profile.
This comprehensive approach includes, but is not limited to:
1. Personal Care Routines:
- Bathing and toileting habits
- Hygiene practices
- Skincare regimens
2. Mobility and Positioning:
- Wheelchair use patterns
- Transfer techniques and frequency
- Bed positioning and repositioning schedules
- Seating arrangements throughout the day
3. Daily Activities:
- Work or study environments
- Leisure activities and hobbies
- Exercise routines
4. Medical Considerations:
- Existing health conditions
- Medication effects on skin integrity
- Nutritional status
5. Environmental Factors:
- Home layout and accessibility
- Climate and humidity levels
- Available support systems
Annette stressed the importance of adopting an individualized care approach, taking into account a multitude of factors such as:
- Physical stability and balance
- Incontinence management
- Environmental influences
- Personal preferences and lifestyle choices
- Cognitive abilities and awareness
- Sensory perception and pain tolerance
By considering these diverse elements, occupational therapists can make more informed decisions when determining optimal support surfaces and pressure care strategies. This comprehensive assessment ensures that the chosen interventions effectively prevent pressure injuries and align with the client's overall well-being and quality of life.
Exploring Pressure Care Cushion Options
Students were introduced to a comprehensive range of pressure care cushions, each designed to address varying levels of risk and specific client needs. Annette provided an in-depth overview of cushion types, their properties, and their suitability for different risk categories:
- Basic Foam Cushions: Foam cushions offer foundational support for clients with minimal pressure care needs.
- Gel Cushions: Examples like the Action Pilot enhance pressure distribution and comfort.
- Polymer Cushions: Equagel cushions were highlighted for their unique material properties that offer both support and pressure relief.
- Hybrid Cushions: JAY cushions were presented as versatile options combining multiple materials for optimal pressure care and positioning.
- Air Cushions: ROHO cushions were showcased for their excellent pressure redistribution capabilities, particularly beneficial for high-risk clients.
Annette delved into the clinical benefits and material composition of each cushion type, elucidating how their unique properties contribute to pressure care and positioning:
- Pressure Redistribution: How different materials disperse body weight to reduce pressure points.
- Positioning Support: The role of cushion design in maintaining proper posture and alignment.
- Heat and Moisture Management: The importance of breathability in preventing skin breakdown.
- Durability and Maintenance: Long-term performance considerations for different cushion types.
- Customization Options: How certain cushions can be adjusted to meet individual client needs.
By examining the interplay between material science and clinical outcomes, students gained a nuanced understanding of how to select the most appropriate cushion for each client's unique circumstances. This comprehensive approach ensures that future occupational therapists will be well-equipped to make informed decisions in pressure care management.
Hands-On Learning Experience
The students enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to explore different pressure care cushions during the workshop. Their active engagement with the equipment allowed them to discover the unique features and benefits of each cushion firsthand.
Key Activities Included:
- Interactive Cushion Experience: Students had the chance to sit on various cushions and look inside the covers, gaining insights into their comfort levels and material compositions.
- Pressure-Mapping Software: Participants utilized advanced pressure-mapping technology to visualize therapeutic benefits, allowing them to see how different cushions distribute pressure across the body.
- ROHO Cushion Setup: Students learned the step-by-step process for setting up a ROHO cushion, equipping them with practical skills they can apply in real-world settings.
This hands-on approach not only deepened their understanding of pressure injury prevention but also fostered an appreciation for the distinct characteristics and functionalities of different cushion types. By actively engaging in these activities, students left the workshop with valuable knowledge and confidence in their ability to make informed decisions about pressure care solutions.
Empowering Future Occupational Therapists
At Unicare, our goal is to empower the next generation of occupational therapists to prescribe the right assistive technology with confidence. Through this workshop, students gained valuable knowledge and practical experience that will prepare them for this crucial aspect of their future work.
Each session concluded on a sweet note, with students' active participation rewarded with Krispy Kreme treats, adding to the enjoyable atmosphere of the learning experience.
By combining expert instruction, hands-on learning, and a touch of fun, we were glad to be supporting the development of skilled and confident occupational therapy professionals, ready to make a positive impact in the field of pressure care and assistive technology.
