Pressure injuries (also known as bedsores, pressure ulcers or bed sores) are of particular concern to individuals who have mobility issues or spend long periods in a static position. Shear forces play an important role in the progression and development of pressure injuries, along with friction and pressure. We will discuss shear reduction, a key strategy for preventing pressure injury and maintaining skin health.
Understanding shear forces
Shear force occurs when adjacent tissue layers move in opposite directions. Imagine yourself sliding down a chair while sitting. Shear is caused by the friction between the skin and the chair combined with gravity’s downward force. Shear is a term used in the context of pressure injuries prevention. It occurs when the skin moves one way while the underlying tissue moves the other, causing stress to the tissues between.
Importance Shear Reduction
Let us consider a few points…
- Integrity of Tissue: Shear force can damage and deform blood vessels and tissues below the surface of the skin, which compromises their integrity. We can reduce the risk of tissue damage and improve circulation by reducing shear.
- Redistribution of Pressure: Effective pressure redistribution is closely related to shear reduction. Pressure is distributed more evenly across the skin when shear is reduced. This reduces localized stress points which could lead to pressure injury.
- Preventing friction: Shear is often associated with friction. In addressing friction, which is another factor that contributes to pressure injuries, we also indirectly address shear. In order to reduce shear, it is important that surfaces are smooth and low-friction.
- Enhancing comfort: Patients with less shear force report an increase in comfort. It not only improves patient comfort, but it also encourages patients to comply with preventive measures such as repositioning or using specialized support surfaces.
Let’s now look at some strategies for shear reduction.
- Positioning: Proper positioning of the body plays a fundamental role in shear reduction. Maintaining neutral alignment is important to minimize shear force during patient transfers.
- Support Surfaces: Selection of suitable support surfaces is essential, including pressure-redistributing mattresses, cushions and other cushioning. These surfaces reduce pressure and shear to provide additional protection from pressure injuries.
- Education: It is important to educate healthcare professionals, caregivers and patients on the importance of shear-reduction. Awareness can lead early detection of risk factors and to preventive measures.
Permobil is an Exclusive Distributor for GlideWear ™, a fabric that reduces shear forces. It’s available in the comfort M2 cushion, and the comfort Embrace cushion. GlideWear reduces the risk of pressure injury by reducing shear forces. It also provides improved comfort and breathability to control microclimate. The STRETCH AIR and COMFORT TEK covers can be upgraded with the GlideWear.
Shear forces are essential in the prevention of pressure injuries. We can reduce pressure injuries by combining shear reduction strategies, pressure redistribution, and friction control.
For all your medical supply needs contact Tanglewood Medical Supplies today!!
Leave a Reply