Impact of Textiles on Formation and Prevention of Skin Lesions and Bedsores

Abstract

A bedsore or pressure ulcer is an area of localized damage to the skin and underlying tissue caused by pressure, shear, friction, or a combination of these factors. In countries with a large geriatric population like Canada, this healthcare threat presents a significant risk to hospitalized patients, imposing huge cost on both treatment and care for patients. The role textiles play in the formation and prevention of pressure ulcers is understudied. The fact remains, textiles, such as clothing and bedding, have a considerable influence on factors, such as pressure, shear/friction, and skin hydration, which contribute to skin ulceration. Our work is a pilot study to investigate the role of textile products in the formation and prevention of bedsores. This study began with a survey study at a local long-term care facility, collecting information about incidences of bedsores and the physical conditions of residents. Information was also collected about the textile products that have been used by the residents. Correlations were established between these products and the incidence/severity of bedsores. Immobility of residents was determined to be a significant factor of causing skin lesions and pressure ulcers. Immobility of residents contributes to a prolonged interaction between skin and fabrics and might increase the chances of skin lesions or bedsores.

Microclimate and development of pressure ulcers and superficial skin changes

“…Textiles play at least three roles in maintaining a favourable microclimate between the patient's skin and the support surface: wicking away perspiration, reducing heat insulation and reducing the coefficient of friction (48,49). Thus, textiles have a role in the prevention or formation of pressure ulcers and other superficial skin changes (29,31).Using the backward mode, we found the remaining two predictor variables. The odd ratio was 0·111 for a fibre sheet, meaning that patient who uses a standard hospital sheet has a higher risk for the development of pressure ulcers and superficial skin changes.…”

“…In addition, any surface that has contact with the skin has a potential to alter the microclimate , including the contact between textiles and skin . Thus, the bed climate has an important function in preventing pressure ulcers .…”

Improvement of a slimming cream's efficacy using a novel fabric as a transdermal drug delivery system: An in�vivo and in�vitro study

“…Furthermore, a previous study assessed the effect of clothing on physiological parameters, including skin hydration (17). Occlusion, which can be produced by fabric that maintains hydrophilic conditions for the skin, partially hinders the loss of skin humidity by increasing the water content of the horny layer (29).…”

Microscopic contact area and friction between medical textiles and skin

“…In view of the aetiology of pressure ulcers, it has been proposed to use medical textiles which reduce the friction and shear forces at the skin surface of bedridden patients and thus, by protecting the skin contribute to the prevention of decubitus ulcers (Basal and Ilgaz, 2009;Smith and Ingram, 2010;Twersky et al, 2012;Yusuf et al, 2013;Zhong et al, 2008). Additional positive effects on the skin physiological conditions are expected if the textile by means of appropriate water transport properties is able to remove water (sweat) from the skin surface, thereby keeping the skin dry and maintaining the natural hydration state.…”