Effects of an Inclining Seat Supporton Gluteal Pressure

A preliminary study of the measurement of external ischial tuberosity width and its gender differences

[Purpose] Using two measurement methods, this study measured the external ischial tuberosity widths (EITW) of both males and females and investigated gender differences in these EITW values. [Subjects and Methods] Fifteen male and 15 female Taiwanese were recruited for this study. Their EITWs were measured using the impress and the seated pressure methods, and compared. [Results] The results show that the EITW values obtained using the impress method were similar to those reported by previous studies, but gender differences were observed in the measurements when that method was used (male: 11.96 cm; female: 13.53 cm). However, the males had non-significantly greater EITW values than the females when the seated pressure method was used (male: 13.42 cm; female: 13.30 cm), and this was probably due to the distinct characteristics of the buttocks of the two sexes and the seated pressure method. [Conclusion] The authors of this study propose that 12.0 and 13.5 cm are respectively the ideal design parameters for male and female EITWs in Taiwan, although13.5 cm might be more appropriate for male EITWs in the design of relatively hard seat or saddle surfaces.

Effects of a continuous lateral turning device on pressure relief

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the pressure-relieving effects of a continuous lateral turning device on common pressure ulcer sites. [Subjects] Twenty-four healthy adults participated. [Methods] The design of our continuous lateral turning device was motivated by the need for an adequate pressure-relieving device for immobile and/or elderly people. The procedure of manual repositioning is embodied in our continuous lateral turning device. The interface pressure and time were measured, and comfort grade was evaluated during sessions of continuous lateral turning at 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°. We quantified the pressure-relieving effect using peak pressure, mean pressure, and pressure time integration. [Results] Participants demonstrated pressure time integration values below the pressure-time threshold at 15°, 30°, and 45° at all the common pressure ulcer sites. Moreover, the most effective angles for pressure relief at the common pressure ulcer sites were 30° at the occiput, 15° at the left scapula, 45° at the right scapula, 45° at the sacrum, 15° at the right heel, and 30° at the left heel. However, angles greater than 30° induced discomfort. [Conclusion] Continuous lateral turning with our specially designed device effectively relieved the pressure of targeted sites. Moreover, the suggested angles of continuous lateral turning can be used to relieve pressure at targeted sites.

Effect of a suspension seat support chair on the trunk flexion angle and gluteal pressure during computer work

[Purpose] We assessed the effects of a suspension seat support chair on the trunk flexion angle and gluteal pressure during computer work. [Subjects] Ten males were recruited. [Methods] The suspension seat support was developed to prevent abnormal gluteal pressure and a slumped sitting posture during computer work. The gluteal pressure was measured with a TekScan system and the trunk flexion angle was measured with a video camera, to compare the differences between a general chair and the suspension seat support. [Results] The gluteal peak pressures were decreased significantly in the suspension seat support versus the general chair. The trunk flexion angle was also decreased significantly in the suspension seat support compared with the general chair. [Conclusions] This study suggests that the suspension seat support chair contributes to preventing abnormal gluteal pressure and a slumped sitting posture.

Mechanical ventilation and mobilization: comparison between genders

[Purpose] To investigate the impact of gender on mobilization and mechanical ventilation in hospitalized patients in an intensive care unit. [Subjects and Methods] A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted of the medical records of 105 patients admitted to a general intensive care unit. The length of mechanical ventilation, length of intensive care unit stay, weaning, time to sitting out of bed, time to performing active exercises, and withdrawal of sedation exercises were evaluated in addition to the characteristics of individuals, reasons for admission and risk scores. [Results] Women had significantly lower values APACHE II scores, duration of mechanical ventilation, time to withdrawal of sedation and time to onset of active exercises. [Conclusion] Women have a better functional response when admitted to the intensive care unit, spending less time ventilated and performing active exercises earlier.