Why Heels Develop Pressure Ulcers Easily:
Heels are one of the areas of the body that are most susceptible to developing pressure ulcers. Covered by just a thin layer of skin and fat, the heels have poor skin perfusion and paucity of muscle tissue to absorb stress. Patients positioned for long periods of time on their backs are particularly at risk because all the weight from the lower legs and feet rest on the heels in this position. The heels
Factors that Cause Heel Pressure Ulcers:
- Poor nutrition
- Advanced Aging
- Poor Circulation
- Sensory Deficiencies
- Lack of mobility
- Major Surgery
- Multiple Health Problems
- Dehydration
- Friction and Shear Forces
- Diabetes
- Peripheral and Vascular Disease
- Hip Fractures
- Anemia
- Obesity and Low Body Mass Index
Skil-Care Tri-Function Heels Off-Loader System Purpose
The Skil-Care Tri-Function Heels Off-Loader System takes pressure off of the heels by suspending them off the bed. A front, higher curve elevates the knees between 5 to 10 degrees in a flexion position. This angle helps to take pressure off and relax the spine. The system evenly distributes the leg's weight along the calf and adjusts for any leg length with detachable straps.
Available in a short or long height size, the system can be used with or without the detachable two-position foot-drop block. Depending on how the foot block is positioned, the foot drop plane can accommodate a 90 to 110 degree angle. Made with a Low-Shear II cover that reduces skin damaging friction and wipes clean, the Skil-Care Tri-Function Heels Off-Loader System reduces the likelihood of developing pressure ulcers.
Application of the Skil-Care Tri-Function Heels Off-Loader System
Place the curved foot elevator's higher curve beneath the knees, adjusting until the heels are off-loaded. Use the suggested heights for the Short and Long Systems, but be aware that an exact size determination can not be calculated due to variances in torso and leg lengths. If the Foot Drop Block is used, determine whether a 90 or 110 degree plane is preferred. Face the appropriate plane towards the user and adjust the distance between the two components by varying the strap length. Loop the strap on the block through the loop on the curved foot elevator and close the Velcro back strap.
Skil-Care Tri-Function Heels Off-Loader System Care:
Caring for the Skil-Care Tri-Function Heels Off-Loader System is easy. All of the materials covering the foam are water resistant and can be wiped clean with standard disinfectant.
Skil-Care Tri-Function Heels Off-Loader System Dimensions:
Short Tri-Function Heel Off-Loader System: 18" Long; Fits those who are less than 5'3" tall.
Long Tri-Function Heel Off-Loader System: 22" Long; Fits those who are greater than or equal to 5'4" tall.
Heel Off-Loader for Short 503188 System: 22"L x 20"W x 7"H
Heel Off-Loader for Long 503185 System: 22"L X 20:W x 7"H
Foot Positioner for both the Long and Short Systems: 7"L x 20"W x 12"H
Caution: When using the Skil-Care Tri-Function Heels Off-Loader System, make sure that the heels are off-loaded and that component sizes are comfortable to the user. Slight modifications can be made by cutting the foam on the bottom of the foot elevator.
Product # |
Description |
Size |
Unit |
503188 |
Tri-Function Heel Off-Loader System - Short |
18" Long |
EACH |
503189 |
Heel Off-Loader for 503188 System |
22"L x 20"W x 7"H |
EACH |
503185 |
Tri-Function Heel Off-Loader System - Long |
22" Long |
EACH |
503186 |
Heel Off-Loader for 503185 |
22"L x 20"W x 7"H |
EACH |
503187 |
Foot Positioner for 503185 & 503188 |
7"L x 20"W x 12"H |
EACH |