etac SE-164 51 Star Cushions Pressure Care User Guide
- July 4, 2024
- Etac
Table of Contents
etac SE-164 51 Star Cushions Pressure Care
Product Information
Specifications
- Brand: Etac Star Cushions
- Models: Standard Air, StabilAir, StarLock
- Technology: Vertical Air Cell Technology, Interconnecting Air Cells
Product Usage Instructions
Clinical Background
Etac’s Star cushions are designed to provide individualized seating solutions. They aim to prevent pressure injuries by offering pressure redistribution and support.
Pressure Injuries
A pressure injury is localized damage to the skin and/or underlying tissue caused by pressure and shear forces. Etac Star Cushions aim to mitigate these forces through their innovative design.
Setting up Star Cushions
- Assess Stability and Postural Needs: Determine the user’s stability and postural requirements.
- Select the Right Cushion Model: Choose between Standard Air, StabilAir, or StarLock based on individual needs.
- Assess the Risk: Evaluate the user’s risk factors for pressure injuries.
- Select Cushion Height: Determine the appropriate cushion height for optimal support.
Star Cushions – Size Guide
Refer to the size guides for Standard Air, StabilAir, and StarLock cushions to select the correct size for the user.
FAQ
- Q: How do I clean the Star Cushions?
- A: Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the cushions. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the material.
- Q: Can the Star Cushions be used on different types of wheelchairs?
- A: Yes, the Star Cushions are designed to be compatible with most standard wheelchairs. Ensure proper fitting and stability when using them.
Introduction
Etac has a proud history of producing wheelchairs and wheelchair seating designed to meet the user’s clinical and functional needs. Etac’s Star cushions are no different, offering incredibly versatile, individualised seating
Intended Use of the Guide
This clinical guide is to help prescribers select the right Star cushion and make an optimal setup to meet an individual user’s needs.
Clinical Background
Pressure Injuries
A pressure injury is defined as “a localized damage to the skin and/or underlying tissue which occurs as a result of direct pressure, or a combination of pressure and shear forces” (EPUAP/ NPIAP 2019(1)). Pressure and shear cause localized deformation to the cells in the tissue, which results in tissue breakdown (Gefen 2021(2)). The mechanical forces that can contribute to pressure injuries are pressure and shear, which typically occur together. Their damaging effects can be compounded by heat and moisture.
Wheelchair users are at particular risk of developing pressure injuries due to several factors, including:
- Immobility
- Reduced sensation
- Reduced tissue tolerance secondary to their medical condition Shear
- European Advisory Panel, National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel and Pan Pacific Pressure Injury Alliance. Prevention and Treatment of Pressure Ulcers/Injuries: Clinical Practice Guideline. The International Guideline. Emily Haesler (Ed.). EPUAP/NPIAP/PPPIA. 2019
- Gefen, A., Brienza, D., Cuddigan, J., Haesler, E. and Kottner, J. (2021). Our Contemporary Understanding of the Aetiology of Pressure Ulcers/Pressure Injuries. International Wound Journal. Vol 10. Issue 3. March 2022.
Pressure Redistribution
Many wheelchair cushions work through pressure redistribution. Pressure redistribution is the process of reducing peak pressures by increasing the surface contact area. Immersion and envelopment are fundamental mechanisms that enable effective pressure redistribution. When an individual is immersed and enveloped in a cushion, the contact surface area increases, reducing peak pressures.
Immersion:
The amount the individual will sink into the cushion’s surface.
Envelopment:
How closely the cushion surface will followthe body shape.
Reducing peak pressure points is thought to minimise damaging skin/tissue distortions. And reducing the pressure points that can cause tissue distortions is vital in preventing pressure injuries because cell deformation is now considered the primary mechanism for causing pressure injuries (EPUAP/NPIAP 2019(1), Gefen et al. 2021(2)).
- European Advisory Panel, National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel and Pan Pacific Pressure Injury Alliance. Prevention and Treatment of Pressure Ulcers/Injuries: Clinical Practice Guideline. The International Guideline. Emily Haesler (Ed.). EPUAP/NPIAP/PPPIA. 2019
- Gefen, A., Brienza, D., Cuddigan, J., Haesler, E. and Kottner, J. (2021). Our Contemporary Understanding of the Aetiology of Pressure Ulcers/Pressure Injuries. International Wound Journal. Vol 10. Issue 3. March 2022.
Vertical Air Cell Technology
Star cushions feature vertical air cell technology designed specifically for individuals at high risk of pressure injuries. Star cushions are fully adjustable to suit the individual’s weight, body shape and pressure redistribution needs*.
Interconnecting Air Cells
Star’s interconnected vertical air cell design ensures internal cell pressures equalise as the user sits in the cushion. This equalisation of cell pressures automatically moves air away from high-pressure points and continues as the user moves in their seat. Star’s vertical air cell construction also effectively reduces surface tension and enables excellent envelopment
Adjustment to the Individual
The continuous adjustment possibilities of Star, coupled with cell height options up to 13 cm, enables optimal immersion for every body shape and size. That is, where the user is immersed as much as possible with minimized risk of bottoming due to normal movement, e.g., weight shifting. The adjustable nature of the cushions makes Star cushions suitable for users of any body size, shape, or weight
Types of Star Cushions
Standard Air
Standard Air is a simple single-air chamber cushion. Air is held throughout the cushion, which moves with the user, enabling continuous pressure redistribution. The Standard Air cushion is designed for individuals at high risk of pressure injuries but with no other postural or stability needs.
StabilAir
StabilAir operates similarly to the Standard Air cushion, with an additional matrix of soft foam cylinders within the air cells. The user is supported by air, while the foam cylinders act as baffles. The foam baffles slow down air movement in the cushion as the user moves, increasing stability while allowing some air movement for continuous pressure redistribution. This is the ideal solution for users who are used to the feel of a foam cushion but need the protection of a vertical air cell cushion.
Consider using StabilAir for individuals who prefer the feel of a foam cushion but need additional skin protection. Or individuals who require additional stability.
StarLock
StarLock can work as a single air chamber cushion allowing individual setup for optimal pressure redistribution. In addition, it is possible to lock air in each vertical air cell. The individual cell locking technology aids stability and allows individualised postural support. The StarLock cushion is suited for individuals who require air cell cushion but need maximum stability and/or postural support, e.g., pelvic obliquity, foot propulsion, or amputation.
Consider using StarLock for individuals with offloading or additional postural needs.
Assessing for a Star Cushion
Star cushions are designed for individuals needing optimal immersion and envelopment.
-
Assess Stability and Postural Needs
Assess the individual´s needs for stable base, offloading, and/or individualised shape for postural support. -
Select the Right Cushion Model
Select the most appropriate cushion model based on the required features. -
Assess the Risk
Assess the risk of the individual developing a pressure injury. A risk assessment scale can be a helpful aid in determining risk, e.g., Waterlow, Norton or Braden, however do not replace the need for clinical reasoning. -
Select Cushion Height
Star cushions are available in four heights
*This guide is based on the level of immersion and is not intended to supersede clinical judgment.
- With StarLock, higher air cells enable greater stability and positioning abilities. Be aware, however, that lower heights may still be preferred by some, e.g., for easier transfers
- Use pressure redistribution cushions in conjunction with a wider program of care. Weight-shifting and pressure-relieving manoeuvres remain important pressure injury prevention methods, irrespective of the support surface type.
Setting up Star Cushions
Setting the Air Level
The air level of the Star cushions can be set easily following the user manual and animated video
Quick Guide Standard Air and StabilAir
Click or Scan the QR code to watch the quick guide for setting the air level for Standard Air and StabilAir.
StarLock
Once the air level is set for StarLock, the air can then be locked into the individuals’ cells. This can easily be done by following the user manual and animated video.
Quick Guide StarLock
Click or Scan the QR code to watch the quick guide for setting the air level for StarLock.
Star Cushions – Size Guide
Standard Air Size Guide
If placed on a wheelchair, the cushion base edges may fold upwards. Hence the difference between the base measurements and recommended seat width.
StabilAir Size Guide
StabilAir Product Page
Click or Scan the QR code to find more information about StabilAir on StabilAir product page, on etac.com
If placed on a wheelchair, the cushion base edges may fold upwards. Hence the difference between the base measurements and recommended seat width.
StarLock Size Guide
StarLock Product Page
Click or Scan the QR code to find more information about StarLock on StarLock product page, on etac.com
If placed on a wheelchair, the cushion base edges may fold upwards. Hence the difference between the base measurements and the recommended seat width.
Etac is a world-leading developer of innovative assistive devices and patient- handling equipment. Since 1973, we have been committed to improving quality of life for the individual, family members and caregivers. For the products’ intended purpose and latest information, please visit www.etac.com
Etac
- +46 371 587 330
- info@etac.se
- www.etac.com
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Read User Manual Online (PDF format) >>