ES2993988T3 - System and method for patient turning and repositioning - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a patient support that can be used on a bed or flat surface and, in particular, to a system and method for supporting and unloading the body and for turning and repositioning a patient in a bed or on a flat surface. Features of the disclosure also relate to markings and other indicators used on the patient support that help guide caregivers in the proper use and correct placement of the patient on the patient support. (Automatic translation with Google Translate, no legal value)

Description

DESCRIPTION

System and procedure for turning and repositioning the patient

Field of dissemination

The present disclosure relates to a patient support that can be used on a bed or flat surface and, in particular, to a system and method of supporting the body, in particular in the prone position, that can also be used to turn and reposition a patient in a bed or on a flat surface. Features of the disclosure also relate to markings and other indicators used on the patient support that help guide caregivers in the proper use and correct positioning of the patient on the patient support.

Background

The hospital bed and other static and dynamic air patient supports are known. Typically, such patient supports are used to provide a support surface for patients or other persons for treatment, recovery, or rest and prevention of skin breakdown. It is desirable to provide enhanced patient support to unload the patient in the prone position including bony prominences. In many cases, proper use of patient positioners depends on caregiver training in proper use of patient positioners, which may be inconsistent across hospitals and other facilities. Therefore, improvements are desired.

US8176585 relates to an external immobilizer for cancer treatment with a plurality of inflatable bladders and a plurality of inflatable means capable of selectively and independently inflating the bladders in order to fix the patient in the desired position and compensate for patient movement during external beam radiotherapy. The inflation means are controlled by a computer.

Brief summary

The present disclosure relates to a body support and unloading system as defined in claim 1. In many instances, it is optimal to barely elevate the body from the bed surface. In the prone position, the body is facing forward toward the support surface. In other examples, the body may be lying face up away from the support surface. The system provides a support that includes a first ultra-low pressure plenum and a positioner. In some examples, the positioner is positioned beneath the ultra-low pressure plenum to adjust and control the amount of gas displaced therein. In other examples, the system provides a first ultra-low pressure plenum, a second ultra-low pressure plenum, and a positioner. Each of the ultra-low pressure plenums may include one or more air chambers. Each air chamber is filled to a predetermined low pressure to distribute the pressure along the length of the ultra-low pressure plenum, but does not provide significant elevation of a received body portion on its own.

A cover may be received over one or more ultra-low plenums. The cover may include a retention member for receiving the positioner. The cover may include a temperature regulating material to maintain the received body part in an optimal skin temperature range for longer comfort. A phase change material may be used to adjust the temperature of the system to accommodate changes in body temperature.

In some embodiments, the positioner includes a bladder filled with a fluidized particulate material of sufficient size and shape to displace an amount of air in the support to relieve pressure from a received body part, such as, but not limited to, bony protrusions from which they contact a surface when the body is positioned in a prone position and when the body is turned to other positions. The surface area of the positioner provides greater positive displacement of air in the ultra-low pressure plenum(s) than would occur from the patient's body part on its own. In one embodiment, the positioner may have a width greater than the patient. In other embodiments, the positioner is sized and shaped like a small pillow. The positioner provides three-dimensional movement. Preferably, the positioner has little or no flow characteristics unless an external force other than gravity is applied. The positioner may move and contour three-dimensionally as if it were fluid without having flow characteristics that would result in migration of the medium under the force of gravity. The positioner may provide three-dimensional contouring. The positioner can be formed as a pad.

The first ultra-low pressure plenum includes a lower bladder section having a smaller width dimension than an upper bladder section. Air chambers of the lower bladder section and the upper bladder section are in air communication with each other. Air is communicated within the upper bladder section and the lower bladder section through air displacement. The size and body size of the patient and the corresponding surface of the positioner control the amount of air that is uniformly displaced against the walls of the first ultra-low pressure plenum. A second ultra-low pressure plenum is positioned beneath the first ultra-low pressure plenum. Alternatively, the second ultra-low pressure plenum may be positioned above the first ultra-low pressure plenum. The second ultra-low pressure plenum may have a size and shape identical or substantially similar to the upper bladder section of the first ultra-low pressure plenum. The positioner is positioned beneath or above the first ultra-low pressure plenum and the second ultra-low pressure plenum or in other positions of the first ultra-low pressure plenum and the second ultra-low pressure plenum or in combination with one or more additional positioners. It has been found particularly useful to place the positioner below the lowest plenum, i.e. between the plenum and the support surface/hospital bed. The positioner displaces air in one or both of the first ultra-low pressure plenum and the second ultra-low pressure plenum to unload the body. The positioner can be placed on one of the outer walls of the first ultra-low pressure plenum to push air away from the outer wall, thus assisting in turning a patient.

For example, the support can be used to allow a patient to be supported in the prone or supine position to unload the body from the collar bone to the knees to assist in the treatment of advanced respiratory distress.

The combination of the first and second ultra-low pressure plenums and the positioner, including a fluidized medium, creates sufficient support of the receiving body part while responding to normal patient movement. The first and second ultra-low pressure plenums may be low profile. This may mean that one or both of the plenums have a height of about 2.5 to about 7.6 cm (one to about three inches) above the support surface. The system including the first and second ultra-low pressure plenums may be placed under the sheets of a bed, such as a hospital bed. Alternatively, the system including the first and second ultra-low pressure plenums may be placed over the sheets to assist in patient turning and repositioning.

Grab handles may be provided on either edge of the first ultra-low pressure plenum to assist in movement of the first ultra-low pressure plenum when a patient is supported by the first ultra-low pressure plenum. In this embodiment, the grab handles may be positioned above the sheet and not weighted to allow patient movement to rotate and reposition the patient. In one embodiment, the grab handles are holes in the cover. In an alternative embodiment, the grab handles are positioned below the sheet and have a high coefficient of friction to prevent movement of the ultra-low pressure plenum.

A support system for a body part is provided, as defined in claim 1, comprising: A plenum including a gas therein, said plenum configured to a shape to fit beneath a patient and support the patient's lower back and hips, the plenum comprising: A series of markings that indicate to a caregiver the proper use of the plenum. The markings comprise anatomical markings of a pelvis and spine. In combination or in a different example, the markings may comprise guide lines extending in lateral and longitudinal directions. The plenum comprises a main body and a lower extension, and the markings comprise tail markings illustrating how to position the lower extension beneath the main body. In combination or in a different example, the markings comprise an instructional pictogram containing one or more images illustrating the proper use of the support system.

The system may also have a plurality of handles, with each handle being a different color. There may be long gripping handles and shorter handles. It is possible to provide a positioner location mark positioned on a surface-facing side of the plenum. In combination or in a different example, a positioner adapted to be received beneath the plenum is provided, wherein the positioner displaces said gas within the plenum.

The plenum may comprise an upper bladder and an extension bladder with the extension bladder having a smaller width diameter than the upper bladder. A lower surface of the plenum may have a lower coefficient of friction than an upper surface. In combination or in a different example, the support system may be provided with a cover having a size to fit over the plenum, the cover including an extension adapted to be received over the extension bladder, an upper surface of the extension including a portion formed of a material having a higher coefficient of friction than other areas of the cover. The cover may include a plurality of handles adjacent adjacent edges of a rear surface of the cover.

In embodiments not forming part of the invention, a method of supporting a body part may also be provided comprising the steps of: providing a patient support chamber comprising a main body and an extension, the chamber comprising (i) a series of markings instructing the caregiver on proper use of the chamber, (ii) a plurality of color-coded handles, and (iii) markings on the tail of the extension; checking the markings to determine proper patient positioning; placing a patient on the support system using the markings as a guide; and (a) gripping handles for moving the patient, (b) gripping handles for tucking the extension under the main body, or (c) both. In this method, the extension may have an upper surface with a higher coefficient of friction than a lower surface of the extension. It is also possible to place a positioner under the main body to displace gas within the plenum.

The invention will be described in more detail with reference to the following drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

Figures 1A-1C are schematic diagrams of a first bladder used in a body support system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a positioner used in the system.

Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a second bladder used in the system.

Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the system including the first and second bladders and the positioner. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the system including the positioner positioned on an outer wall of the support.

Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an alternate embodiment of a system for supporting a body part in accordance with the teachings of the present invention that provides low pressure loss.

Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an alternate embodiment of a body part support system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention that provides alternating pressure.

Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a support used in an alternative embodiment of a sacral and trochanteric support system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

Figure 8 is a front view of a cover placed on the support shown in Figure 7.

Figure 9 is a rear view of a cover placed on the support shown in Figure 7.

Figure 10 is a rear view of a cover placed on the support shown in Figure 7, including an extension of the support placed in a folded condition.

Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the sacral and trochanteric support system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention when placed in a bed.

Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the sacral and trochanteric support system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention when placed on a bed and having one side folded to expose handles attached to a rear side of the support.

Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the sacral and trochanteric support system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention when placed on a bed and includes a positioner positioned in a cover retainer.

Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the sacral and trochanteric support system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention when placed in a bed and used by a user.

Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the sacral and trochanteric support system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention when placed on a bed and used by a user during folding of one edge toward the user.

Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of the sacral and trochanteric support system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention when placed on a bed and used by a user during folding of a canopy extension and support.

Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of the sacral and trochanteric support system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention when placed in a bed and used by a user during user turning.

Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of the sacral and trochanteric support system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention when placed in a bed and in use, including the use of a positioner to assist in turning.

Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of a positioner used in the sacral and trochanteric support system.

Figure 20 is a top plan view of one embodiment of a patient support having markings designed to indicate proper use and position of the patient to a caregiver.

Figure 21 is a bottom plan view of the patient support of Figure 20.

Figure 22 is a top plan view of the patient support of Figure 20 with the sides folded up to reveal access to the handles on the bottom surface.

Figure 23 is a top plan view of the patient support of Figure 20 on a hospital bed with a patient placed thereon. The sides of the support are flared to facilitate viewing, but it should be understood that at least a portion of the sides may cover the side of the bed and not be visible from above. Figure 24 is a close-up view of certain instructional markings on the patient support.

Detailed description

Reference will now be made in greater detail to the invention, an example of which is illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings and description to refer to the same or similar parts.

Figs. 1 through 4 illustrate the system for supporting a portion of a patient's body by turning and repositioning the patient with simultaneous offloading of the bony prominences 10 in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. The patient support system described herein may include a combination of plenums and positioners, in various combinations. A single low pressure plenum may be provided, or more than one plenum may be used in combination. A single positioner may be provided, or more than one positioner may be used in combination. The first ultra-low pressure plenum 12 is configured for a shape that fits under a patient and supports the lower back and/or hips of a patient. For example, the first ultra-low pressure plenum 12 may have a width W1 of about 132 cm (52 inches), and a height H1 of about 89 cm (35 inches). Alternatively, the width W1 may be the width of a bed, such as a hospital bed. As noted by FIG. 4, the first ultra-low pressure plenum 12 is formed from the upper bladder 14 and the lower bladder 16. The first upper bladder 14 may have a width W2 and a height H2. The lower bladder 16 has a smaller width dimension W3 and a height dimension H3 than the upper bladder 14. The air pressure within the upper bladder 14 and the lower bladder 16 is reduced sufficiently to distribute the pressure within the first ultra-low pressure plenum 12, but does not provide support of the received body portion itself. The upper bladder section 14 extends between edges 13b and 13d. In a specific example, the width between edges 13b and 13d may be from about 700 mm to about 1400 mm. In an even more specific example, the width may be from about 950-1050 mm, or even more particularly, 997 mm. The lower section 16 of the bladder extends between edges 15b and 15d. In a specific example, the width between edges 15b and 15d may be about 500 mm to about 1000 mm. In an even more specific example, the width may be about 900-850 mm, or even more particularly, 844 mm. Sizes between these ranges are also considered within the scope of this disclosure. These dimensions are provided for perspective and description purposes only, and are not intended to be limiting.

The grip handles 20 may be provided on any of the edges 22a, 22b to assist in movement of the first ultra-low pressure plenum 12 over the surface 19. The grip handles 20 may be placed on a sheet of a bed and not weighted to allow the patient to be moved. In an alternative embodiment, the grip handles 20 are positioned beneath the sheet and have a high coefficient of friction to prevent movement of the first ultra-low pressure plenum 12.

The positioner 23 may include the bladder 24, as shown in Figure 2. The bladder 24 is filled with fluidized material 25 that can retain its shape after sculpting. The fluidity or lubricity of the fluidized material 25 can be increased by adding a lubricant or by removing air from the interstitial spaces or both. The preferred medium for the fluidized material 25 is a particulate material that has been modified so that it acts as a fluid. The fluidized material 25 refers to a compound or composition that can be sculpted and retain its shape and has no memory or substantially no memory. The no memory or substantially no memory feature allows the bladder 24 to increase in height and maintain support for a body part. The fluidized material 25 is made of a viscosity that will allow it to contour but not collapse under the weight of the body part.

At sea level, the normal pore air pressure would exceed 760 millibars of mercury. This increases or decreases marginally as altitude varies. Depending on the nature of the fluidized particulate material 25, the pressure can be lowered below about 500 millibars to about 5 millibars, preferably, 350 millibars to about 5 millibars, while maintaining the necessary flow characteristics of the product.

The fluidized material 25 may include compressible and non-compressible beads, such as polyethylene or polystyrene (PS) beads, expanded polyethylene (PE), cross-linked expanded polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) pellets, closed cell foams, microspheres, encapsulated phase change materials (PCM). The beads may be hard or flexible. In one embodiment, the beads are flexible and air may be evacuated from the beads. In one embodiment, the hard beads may be mixed with flexible beads where air may be evacuated from the flexible beads. In an alternative embodiment, the fluidized material 25 may be a porous foam substance that includes interstitial air pockets. In one embodiment, the fluidized material 25 may be a polyurethane foam. The polyurethane foam may be open or closed cell and cut into small shapes such as spheres or blocks. For example, a polyurethane foam sphere may be 5.1 cm (2 inches) in diameter. For example, a polyurethane foam block might be a 1 x 1 inch block.

Suitable examples of fluidized material 25 may be comprised of a mixture of microspheres and lubricant. The microspheres may include hollow or gas-filled structural bubbles (typically glass or plastic) with an average diameter of less than 200 microns. The composition flows and tensiles in response to a deforming pressure exerted upon it and the composition ceases to flow and tensile when the deforming pressure is removed. For example, the fluidized material 25 may be comprised of a known product such as Floam™. A flowable composite comprising lubricated microspheres, including the composite itself, formulations for making the composite, processes for making the composite, products made from the composite, and processes for making products from the composite are defined by U.S. Patent Nos. 5,421,874, 5,549,743, 5,626,657, 6,020,055, 6,197,099, and 8,175,585.

For example, the bladder 24 may be formed from a flexible plastic, such as urethane. By removing gas from the fluidized material 25, the bladder 24 flows simultaneously with the flow of fluidized material 25 such that the bladder 24 moves with the movement of the fluidized material 25. For example, the gas may be air, helium, hydrogen, or nitrogen. Optionally, the gas may communicate throughout the entire bladder to allow for maximum contour and functional displacement of both the gas and the fluidized chamber, thereby providing maximum contour to a desired body part. In a specific example, the dimensions of the bladder 24 may range from about 400 mm x about 200 mm to about 900 mm x about 600 mm. Sizes between these ranges are also considered within the scope of this disclosure. These dimensions are provided for perspective and description purposes only, and are not intended to be limiting.

Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the second ultra-low pressure plenum 32. The second ultra-low pressure plenum 32 is formed by the bladder 34. The second ultra-low pressure plenum 32 may have a width W4 and a height H4 that is identical or substantially similar to the height H2 and width W2 of the upper bladder 14 of the first ultra-low pressure plenum 12.

The second ultra-low pressure plenum 32 may be positioned beneath the first ultra-low pressure plenum 12 as shown in Figure 4. Alternatively, the second ultra-low pressure plenum may be positioned above the first ultra-low pressure plenum. The positioner 23 is positioned beneath the first ultra-low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra-low pressure plenum 32. The positioner 23 displaces air in both the first ultra-low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra-low pressure plenum 32. The bottom surface 26 of the positioner 23 may be formed of a high friction material to prevent movement of the positioner 23.

The bladder 24 is preferably filled with fluidized particulate material 25 having a size and shape sufficient to displace an amount of gas in the ultra low pressure plenum 12 and second ultra low pressure plenum 32 to off-load pressure from the receiving body portion, such as the bony prominences of the collar bone, rib cage, and iliac crest when the body is in the prone position adjacent the system 10. In other examples, the system off-loads bony prominences of the head, shoulder blades, elbows, heels, pelvis, or other bony portions of the patient's anatomy. The bladder 24 provides microcontouring because the fluidized material 25 can respond three-dimensionally. Alternatively, the bladder 24 is formed of any contouring medium, such as foam or gel that is sufficient to displace air within the first ultra low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra low pressure plenum 32.

For example, the pressure in the ultra low pressure plenum 12 and second ultra low pressure plenum 32 may be below 196 Pa (20 mm of water). It will be appreciated that all equivalents such as mm Hg and PSI can be used to measure the pressure within the ultra low pressure plenum 12 and second ultra low pressure plenum 32.

The pressure within the ultra-low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra-low pressure plenum 32 may be below about 196 Pa (20 mm of water) if the positioner 23 is not used or if an area of less than about 30% of the ultra-low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra-low pressure plenum 32 is covered by the positioner 23. The pressure within the ultra-low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra-low pressure plenum 32 may be below about 98 Pa (10 mm of water) if an area of between about 30% to about 60% of the ultra-low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra-low pressure plenum 32 is covered by the positioner 23. The pressure within the ultra-low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra-low pressure plenum 32 may be below about 49 Pa (5 mm of water) if an area of more than about 60% of the ultra-low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra-low pressure plenum 32 is covered by the positioner 23. pressure 32 are covered by positioner 23.

The bottom surface 17 of the first ultra low pressure plenum 12 or second ultra low pressure plenum 32 may be formed of a material having a low coefficient of friction to be used to move a patient on the surface 19 beneath the first ultra low pressure plenum 12 or the second ultra low pressure plenum 32. A suitable material having a low coefficient of friction is nylon or nylon tear stop material. The top surface 18 of the first ultra low pressure plenum 12 or second ultra low pressure plenum 32 may be formed of a material having a high coefficient of friction. A suitable material having a high coefficient of friction is a rubber or anti-skid material.

An additional positioner 23 may be positioned on the lower bladder 16 of the ultra low pressure plenum 12 to shift gas from the lower bladder 16 to the upper bladder 14 in the direction of arrows A1 as shown in Figure 4 or at various locations on the first ultra low pressure plenum 12 or the second ultra low pressure plenum 32. When a patient is reclined on the first ultra low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra low pressure plenum 32 gas will shift in the upper bladder 14 and second ultra low pressure plenum 32 toward the outer edges 13a to provide support adjacent the edges 13b and 13d to thereby provide support of the edges 13b and 13d of the patient's upper bladder 14 within the edges 13b and 13d and to the edges of the bladder 34 to lift a patient off the surface 11.

In one embodiment, the positioner 23 may be positioned on one of the edges 13b and 13d to push air away from the respective edges 13b and 13d thereby assisting in turning the patient toward the opposite edge, as shown in Figure 5. For example, if the patient is to be turned toward edge 13d, the positioner 23 may be positioned on edge 13b to displace gas behind the patient toward edge 13b of upper bladder 14, thereby pneumatically assisting in turning the patient toward edge 13d.

The system 10 including the ultra low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra low pressure plenum 32 is functional whether the positioner 23 is positioned above the ultra low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra low pressure plenum 32 or below the ultra low pressure plenum 12 and the second ultra low pressure plenum 32.

Figs. 6 through 17 illustrate the system for supporting a portion of a patient's body by turning and repositioning the patient with simultaneous offloading of the bony prominences 300 in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. The system 300 includes the first ultra-low pressure plenum 312 and the second low pressure plenum 332, as shown in Fig. 6. The first ultra-low pressure plenum 312 is configured for a shape that fits beneath a patient and supports the lower back and/or hips of a patient. The first ultra-low pressure plenum 312 may include the upper bladder 314 and the extension bladder 315. The extension bladder 315 extends from the upper bladder 314. The extension bladder 315 and the upper bladder 314 may be integral with each other. The air pressure within the upper bladder 314 and the extension bladder 315 is reduced enough to distribute the pressure within the first ultra-low pressure plenum 312, but does not provide support of the received body part itself. The second ultra-low pressure plenum 332 is formed by the bladder 334. The second ultra-low pressure plenum 32 may be positioned under the first ultra-low pressure plenum 12. Dimples 311 may be formed in the first ultra-low pressure plenum 312 and dimples 331 may be formed in the second ultra-low pressure plenum 332. The dimples 311 and the dimples 331 may be aligned with each other.

The cover 318 may be positioned around the first ultra low pressure plenum 312 and the second ultra low pressure plenum as shown in Figs. 7 through 9. The cover 318 may be formed of a material having a low coefficient of friction. A suitable material having a low coefficient of friction is nylon or nylon tear stop material. The extension 325 of the cover 318 receives the extension of the bladder 315.

The portion 317 on the upper surface 327 of the extension 325 may be formed of a material having a high coefficient of friction. A suitable material having a high coefficient of friction is a rubber or non-slip material. The portion 317 may be folded under the rear surface 319 of the upper bladder 314 to prevent movement of the ultra low pressure plenum 312, as shown in Figure 9. Handles 320 may be provided adjacent any edge 322a, 322b of the cover 318 to assist in movement. Handles 321 may be provided adjacent any edge 324a, 324b of the extension 325 of the cover 318 to assist in folding the extension 325 under the rear surface 319.

Figs. 10 through 17 illustrate use of the system for supporting a portion of a user's body by turning and repositioning the user with simultaneous off-loading of the bony protrusions 300. In Fig. 10, the system for supporting a portion of a user's body by turning and repositioning the user with simultaneous off-loading of the bony protrusions 300 may be positioned on bed 330. The system 300 may be moved to different positions on bed 330 by use of handles 320, as shown in Fig. 11.

The positioner 23 may be placed within the pocket 331 of the cover 318 to retain the positioner 23. The positioner 23 may be placed over the upper bladder 314 of the first ultra-low pressure plenum 312 to displace gas in the direction of arrow A2, as shown in Figure 12. When a user is lying on the first ultra-low pressure plenum 312 with his or her sacrum received in the positioner 23, gas will displace in the upper bladder 314 in the direction of arrow A3 toward the outer edges 322a, 322b to provide support adjacent to the edges 322a and 322b to provide support to the user within the edges 322a and 322b and to raise the user 340 from the surface 311 of the bed 330 and to unload the sacrum and trochanter of the user 340, as shown in Figure 13. Additional positioners 23 may be positioned over the upper bladder 314 of the first ultra-low pressure plenum 312 to displace gas in the direction of arrow A2, as shown in Figure 12. 23 may be placed into pocket 331 of cover 118 by lifting edge 322a to provide additional gas displacement within upper bladder 314 as shown in Figure 14. Extension 325 may be folded under rear surface 319 of upper bladder 314 to prevent movement of ultra low pressure plenum 312 as shown in Figure 15.

In one embodiment, the user 340 may be moved or rotated using the handles 320, as shown in Figure 16. In one embodiment, the positioner 23 may be positioned behind one side of the cover 318 to push gas away from the edges 322a, to thereby assist in turning a user toward the opposite edge, as shown in Figure 17. For example, if the patient is to be turned toward edge 322b, the positioner 23 may be positioned on edge 322a to shift gas behind the patient toward edge 322b of the upper bladder 314, to thereby pneumatically assist in turning the patient toward edge 322b.

In one embodiment, the positioner 400 may include an ultra-low pressure bladder 402, as shown in Figure 18. The pressure within the ultra-low pressure bladder 402 is a range of less than about 196 Pa (20 mm of water) to about 49 Pa (5 mm of water) or a range of less than about 98 Pa (10 mm of water) to about 49 Pa (5 mm of water). It will be appreciated that all equivalents such as mm Hg and PSI can be used to measure the pressure within the ultra-low pressure bladder 402. In this embodiment, the positioner 400 is formed with a size and shape sufficient to displace an amount of gas in the ultra-low pressure bladder 402 to relieve the pressure from the received body part. The bottom surface 406 of the positioner 400 may be formed of a high friction material to prevent movement of the positioner 400. The positioner 400 may be positioned above the first ultra low pressure plenum 12 and/or second ultra low pressure plenum 32 or below the ultra low pressure plenum 12 and/or second ultra low pressure plenum 32.

The positioner 400 may be positioned over the lower bladder 16 of the ultra low pressure plenum 12 to move gas from the lower bladder 16 to the upper bladder 14 in the direction of arrows A1, as shown in Figure 4.

In one embodiment, positioner 23 may be used in conjunction with positioner 400. Positioner 400 may be positioned over lower bladder 16 of ultra low pressure plenum 12. Positioner 23 may be positioned on one of edges 13b and 13d to push air away from the respective edges 13b and 13d, thereby assisting in turning a patient toward the opposite edge, similar to positioner 23 as shown in FIG. 5. For example, if the patient is to be turned toward edge 13d, positioner 23 may be positioned on edge 13b to displace gas behind the patient toward edge 13b of upper bladder 14, thereby pneumatically assisting in turning the patient toward edge 13d.

While it may be the case that caregivers are well trained in the use of patient unloading or turning and positioning systems, there are some instances where such systems are used incorrectly due to uncertainty about the features and their intended use. Accordingly, one embodiment of this disclosure provides a series of markings 500 that may be placed on various surfaces of an air plenum 502. The air plenum 502 may have any features of the plenums described above. It should also be understood that the disclosed markings 500 may be used on other patient support systems/air plenums with similar instructions for use.

Referring now to Figure 20, an air plenum 502 is shown with side extensions 504 and a lower extension 506. In use, the air plenum 502 is configured to be placed on top of a hospital bed or other surface. Some or all of the side extensions 504 may hang downward, adjacent to or alongside the sides of the hospital bed or other surface. The lower extension 506 will generally be placed under the leg or foot area of a patient, as illustrated in Figure 23. The air plenum 502 is provided with markings 500 that indicate to a caregiver proper positioning of the patient and/or proper use of the lower extension 506.

First, an anatomical diagram 508 is placed in a central location on the air plenum 502. The anatomical diagram 508 pictured is that of a patient's pelvis/sacral area 510 and spine 512. For example, it is possible to provide the desired location of a patient's head or other anatomical reference point relative to the plenum 502. Although it is possible to use any color to indicate the anatomical diagram 508, it has been found particularly useful to provide such diagrams/charts in white. Because the spine, pelvis, and sacrum are bony structures and naturally white in color, it is believed that this color association may subconsciously emphasize the relationship between the patient's positioning and the anatomical diagram 508.

The markings 500 also include sacral guide lines extending from the anatomical diagram 508 in the form of guide lines or a grid extending in the lateral (x) and longitudinal (y) directions from the anatomical markings. The longitudinal (y) portion 516 of the grid may assist in aligning the entire body of the patient's spine in the plenum 502. The lateral (x) portion 518 of the grid, which actually functions as a lateral sacral line, provides a lateral extension of the sacral area. In a specific example, this line 518 may run around the product and serve as a support guide to ensure that the patient is correctly positioned and that the proper position is maintained throughout the patient's daily care. The lateral portion 518 may be marked thicker than the perpendicularly oriented longitudinal portion 516 because it is generally more visible when the patient is positioned on the plenum 502. Used either alone or in combination, these markings 500 can assist in aligning the patient on the plenum 502. Although multiple options are illustrated, it is possible to provide only a single anatomical diagram 508 and/or only a single lateral marking 516 or longitudinal marking 518.

The plenum 502 is also illustrated with tail markings 520 on the lower extension 506. In use, the lower extension may be folded under the main body 522 of the air plenum 502. When the lower extension 506 is tucked under the plenum 502, a "hump" of two air bladders is formed, which ensures better offloading of the patient's sacral area. As described above, it is possible to provide the lower extension 506 as having a different coefficient of friction than the main body 522. In a specific example, the upper surface 560 of the lower extension 506 may have a higher coefficient of friction than the upper surface of the main body 522 of the air plenum 502. The result is that when the lower extension 506 is tucked under the plenum 502, the higher coefficient of friction surface now faces the lower surface of the bed and may help stop the system 10 from slipping or skidding relative to the bed surface. The lower extension thus acts as a "parking pause" to hold the patient in position and thereby ensure proper unloading of the patient. However, such folding or tucking of the lower extension 506 (also known as the "tail") may not be intuitive. Accordingly, the markings may include a series of small upward arrows 524 that require action. The markings may also include a series of lines in a pattern 526 that indicate the area to be folded. A border line 528 helps to identify the location in which the tail 506 should be tucked. While any colored marking is possible and considered within the scope of this disclosure, it has been found that providing tail markings 520 in red requires an action. They signal to the caregiver, "don't forget to tuck the tail." The tail is optimally tucked so that the patient is properly positioned for unloading for optimal pressure ulcer protection, and also counteracts the patient sliding down in the bed when the head of the bed is elevated. A side handle 530 is also provided on the lower extension 506. Caregivers may grasp the side handle 530 to tuck/fold/move the lower extension 506 underneath the main body 522. Again, although any color is possible, it has been found useful to provide the side handle 530 in red. As illustrated by the "tucking" pictogram shown and described below, it is also possible to position the side extensions 504 underneath the main body 522 by using a similar procedure. The side extensions 504 may be tucked in to adjust the air displacement in the plenum, and may vary depending on the size of the patient.

20 also illustrates a series of gripping handles 532 extending along the main body 522, visible from the edges. These gripping handles 532 are particularly useful for laterally turning the patient or for lateral transfer; that is, transferring a patient from one bed or support to another. As described, it is possible to provide the bottom surface of the air plenum 502 having a low coefficient of friction allowing sliding of the system 10 relative to a surface. 21 shows a bottom plan view of the patient support system 10. This view illustrates that the handle system may include a series of longer gripping handles 532 along with shorter interleaved handles 534. The shorter handles 534 are used to "boost" the patient; that is, to move the patient (and support) up or down on a bed or other support surface.

In a specific embodiment, the grip handles 532 may be alternately colored. By replacing every other handle with a handle of a different color, it may be easier for caregivers to identify and grip the corresponding handle on the assigned side in order to provide evenly distributed weight lifting and stimulating the patient. The overall goal is that the color difference between the handles provides the ability for caregivers to recognize and separate the handles when preparing and organizing the push grip. As mentioned above, the shorter handles 534 are sandwiched between the longer grip handles 532, and are used to push the patient. For example, when two caregivers are standing on opposite sides of a bed or other surface, and preparing to push a patient, the color difference of the longer handles, i.e., handles 532a, 532c, and the gray handles 532b, 532d, makes it easier to grip the correct short handle 532 (not visible during stimulation). This may facilitate communication between caregivers, and also prevents biased reinforcement, which may be detrimental to the patient. The color difference is intended to facilitate verbal handling of interactions with the specific handle. In some cases, the side extensions 504 may be folded over the main body 522 in order to achieve greater maneuverability, as shown in FIG. 22. In this example, caregivers have access to a series of shorter handles 534. In one specific example shown, the shorter handles 534 may be positioned in a base area 536 of each of the longer grip handles 532. In another example, the shorter handles 534 may be positioned between the longer grip handles 532. These handles may also be alternatively color-coded if desired. It should also be understood that alternative handle configurations are possible and considered within the scope of this disclosure. The specific configuration has been found to be particularly useful and is therefore described in detail herein.

Figure 21 also illustrates a positioner location marking 562. This marking 562 may help show a caregiver where a positioner (as described above) or pillow may be placed to assist in effectively positioning the patient. Although this figure illustrates it as being positioned on the bottom surface of the system, it should be understood that this marking 562 may be placed on the top surface, the bottom surface, or both surfaces.

Figure 20 also illustrates a pictogram 540. Pictogram 540 pictorially represents the suggested use of the patient support system. Pictogram 540 may be placed anywhere on the support system as deemed appropriate. It has been found particularly useful to place pictogram 540 on one of the side extensions 504. This placement allows for caregiver access even when the patient is positioned on the patient support system, as illustrated in Figure 23. Figure 24 illustrates various options that may be provided in pictogram 540. A first pictogram 542 illustrates the appropriate steps for positioning a patient on the positioned system 10. A second pictogram 544 illustrates the appropriate steps for stowing the bottom extension and/or sides of the plenum. A third pictogram 546 illustrates the appropriate steps for turning and positioning a patient. A fourth pictogram 548 illustrates the appropriate steps for propelling a patient. A fifth pictogram 550 illustrates the appropriate steps for lateral transfer of a patient. All of the pictograms shown and described 540 may be provided in a single location. In another example, the pictograms may be provided in different locations on the air plenum 502. It is generally anticipated that all of the pictograms will be provided, but it is possible to leave one or more pictograms out of the set.

Pictogram 540 may also include a QR code 552 that can be scanned to provide the user with more information about the product and other instructions for use. The QR code may link the user to the manufacturer's website, an instructional video, or any other appropriate source of instruction.

It should be understood that the embodiments described above are illustrative of only some of the many possible specific embodiments, which may represent applications of the principles of the invention.

Claims (14)

1. A support system (10) for a body part comprising: a plenum (502) including a gas therein, said plenum configured in a shape to fit beneath a patient and support the patient's lower back and hips, the plenum (502) comprising: a series of indicia (500) indicating to a caregiver proper use of the plenum (502), characterized in that the indicia (500) comprise anatomical indicia (508) of a pelvis and spine, wherein the plenum comprises a main body (522) and a lower extension (506), and wherein the indicia (500) comprise tail indicia (520) illustrating how to fold the lower extension (506) beneath the main body (522). 2. The support system (10) of claim 1, characterized in that the marks (500) comprise guide lines (516, 518) extending in lateral and longitudinal directions. 3. The support system of claim 2, wherein said guide lines are sacral guide lines extending from said anatomical markings (508). 4. The support system of any of the preceding claims, wherein said tail marks (520) include a series of lines in a pattern (526) indicating the area to be folded. 5. The support system of any of the preceding claims, wherein said tail marks (520) comprise a border line (528) that helps identify where the lower extension (506) should be hidden. 6. The support system (10) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the indicia (500) comprise an instructional pictogram (540) containing one or more images illustrating proper use of the support system (10). 7. The support system (10) of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of handles (532), wherein each other handle (532) comprises a different color. 8. The support system (10) of any of the preceding claims, wherein said plurality of handles (532) comprises long handles and, wherein shorter handles (534) are interspersed between said longer handles (532). 9. The support system (10) of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a positioner location mark (562) positioned on a surface-facing side of the plenum (502). 10. The support system (10) of claim 9, further comprising a positioner (23) adapted to be received beneath the plenum (502), wherein the positioner (23) displaces said gas within the plenum (502) and wherein the positioner comprises a bladder filled with fluidized material (25) capable of retaining its shape after sculpting. 11. The support system (10) of any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pressure within the plenum (502) is less than about 196 Pa (20 mm of water) to about 49 Pa (5 mm of water). 12. The support system (10) of any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plenum (502) comprises an upper bladder (314) and an extension bladder (315), wherein the extension bladder (315) has a smaller width diameter than the upper bladder (314). 13. The support system (10) of any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a lower surface of the plenum (502) has a lower coefficient of friction than an upper surface. 14. The support system (10) of claim 12, further comprising a cover (318) having a size to fit over the plenum (502), the cover (318) including an extension (325) adapted to be received over the extension bladder (315), an upper surface of the extension (325) including a portion formed of a material having a higher coefficient of friction than other areas of the cover (318).