title: Pressure on the patient.
abstract: The primary cause of pressure sores is the interference with the blood supply of the tissues which, if prolonged, will result in their death. In most cases, the prolonged pressure which occludes vessels is caused by the inability of the patient to feel pain and/or move. Fortunately the surface area of the body available for the support of the patient is such that it is possible to design patient-support systems which will prevent the pressure per unit area exceeding the critical value. The criteria for an ideal patient-support system are given.
authors.affiliation: Department of Biomechanical Engineering, The Institute of Orthopaedics, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, Middlesex.
authors.forename: J T
authors.initials: JT
authors.lastname: Scales
mesh_terms: D001512:Bedding and Linens; D001513:Beds; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D006801:Humans; D011312:Pressure; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing / Q000517:prevention & control*