DE202022105246U1 - Device for the prophylaxis of decubitus - Google Patents

Abstract

Device (10) for the prophylaxis of decubitus
- with a stabilization layer (50),
- having an actuator layer (40) adjoining the stabilization layer (50) and having at least one vibration generator (44),
- with a vibration layer (30) which is present on the side of the actuator layer (40) opposite the stabilization layer (50),
- with a protective layer (28), which is present on the side of the vibration layer (30) opposite the actuator layer (40),
- having a top layer (20) present on the opposite side of the protective layer (28) from the vibration layer (30).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The invention relates to a device for preventing bedsores. If the skin and the tissue under the skin in healthy people get too much pressure and too little oxygen, the respective part of the body starts to tingle. This usually results in a relocation of part or all of the body so that oxygenation can be restored to the affected area. This independent movement and rearrangement is usually only possible to a limited extent or not at all for people with restricted mobility. Therefore, people with restricted mobility can develop bedsores (decubitus). Such people with restricted mobility can be, in particular, elderly people in the care of the elderly, people who are ill or in need of care, people who are paralyzed, and people who are dependent on a wheelchair at least part of the time.

STATE OF THE ART

As a rule, methods of preventing decubitus ulcers are limited to regularly repositioning the patient. Such a repositioning is time-consuming and energy-intensive, especially in the case of people with restricted mobility, and is therefore correspondingly exhausting for the nursing staff or the caring relatives. Pressure relief of the body, especially with aids such as positioning wedges or alternating pressure mattresses, can reduce the risk of decubitus. In addition, the skin must be checked daily and treated with skin care products in order to be able to identify possible problem areas as early as possible so that medical treatment is possible. In particular, the control and use of skin care products should ensure that the natural breathing of the skin is maintained.

Alternating pressure mattresses in particular are used in decubitus therapy. Individual areas of the mattress are cyclically pumped out and pumped out. However, this cannot be used in all patients, since the repetitive stimuli can lead to serious side effects and negative habituation to these stimuli.

In addition, there are also isolated developments that are intended to prevent the development of decubitus. For example, “electric underpants” were developed that are intended to stimulate certain areas of the skin by means of a current flow. However, this device can only be used for the body regions in the lower abdomen, but not for the heels or ankles. However, it is precisely these parts of the body that are most frequently affected by ulcer-like skin damage.

In medical technology, the use of sound waves is already known and standardized in many areas. Ultrasonic devices are particularly widespread in the field of measurement technology. Ultrasound therapy actively uses the stimulation of sound waves to improve blood circulation, increase metabolism and relieve pain. In applications to improve blood circulation, continuous or pulsed sound can be used.

In this context, portable devices are also known, for example, which are designed for self-use for the treatment of orthopedic and/or neurological complaints. However, corresponding devices are only designed for very small stimulation areas, so that no holistic treatment of several body regions can take place at the same time. As a rule, you can only choose between two preset frequencies (e.g. 50 Hertz and 100 Hertz), so that no individual adjustment is possible. In addition to pain therapy, the main field of application of such devices is also the treatment of spasticity and an application in ergotherapy. Use in animals, for example in horses, is also possible in principle.

Different mattresses are known for bedridden patients. There are a variety of mattresses where the lying surface can be adapted to the shape of the body. In this context, water beds or air beds are known in particular, which are also widespread for non-medical use. However, bed sores cannot be prevented by such mattresses. A so-called “anti-decubitus mattress” is also known, which also has a lying surface that adapts to the shape of the body. There are also integrated pressure sensors. However, these pressure sensors are not used to prevent bedsores; rather, a signal is triggered when the patient leaves the bed. This means that an alarm can also be triggered in the event of a fall, for example.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

Proceeding from this previously known state of the art, the invention is based on the object of specifying a device for the prophylaxis of decubitus that can be used universally and as early as possible.

The device according to the invention for the prophylaxis of decubitus is given by the features of main claim 1. Meaningful developments of the invention are the subject matter of further claims that follow this claim.

The device according to the invention for the prophylaxis of decubitus has a stabilization layer. An actuator layer, which has at least one vibration generator, adjoins the stabilization layer. A vibration layer is present on the side of the actuator layer opposite the stabilization layer. A protective layer is present on the side of the vibration layer opposite the actuator layer. A top layer is present on the opposite side of the protective layer from the vibration layer.

The device according to the invention can be, for example, an overlay for a mattress. Pads for other lying or support pads are also conceivable with the device according to the invention. For example, medical couches that are used in therapeutic or medical treatments could be equipped with such an overlay. The upholstered areas in the area of the backrest and in the area of the seat of wheelchairs could also be equipped with the device according to the invention. The soft upholstery surface can be connected to the device according to the invention both in the case of mattresses and in the case of other upholstery, or it can also be present as a separate upholstery. In this case, it can be useful to attach the support with the device according to the invention, in particular detachably, to the cushion so that it does not accidentally slip even when the patient moves.

The device according to the invention is thus able to stimulate the desired parts of the body via specifically introduced vibrations, so that the blood circulation in the skin or the tissue in these regions is specifically increased. As a result, the heavy physical work of frequently moving patients can be made significantly easier for the caring relatives or the nursing staff. Repositioning is therefore only necessary at longer intervals, so that more time is available for other activities on the patient.

With the device according to the invention, the vibrations can also be directed precisely to the desired parts of the body. In this case, vibrations in the resonance range can be generated with relatively low power, which are passed on via the top layer to the body parts resting on the top layer.

Preferably, the stabilizing layer comprises a solid fabric material. In particular, it can be a solid, non-quilted material.

The at least one vibration generator can be designed as a mass-spring oscillator. The spring can be made of metal or plastic. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one vibration generator can be designed as a magnet system with a voice coil. In this case, the magnet system can have a magnet pot, magnetic material and a pole plate. The voice coil can have a round wire or a flat wire.

The vibration generators can preferably generate vibrations in the range from 3 Hertz to 50 Hertz. Vibrations in the range from 5 Hertz to 20 Hertz can preferably be generated. In particular, sound waves are used to generate the vibrations.

The actuator layer can preferably have a plurality of vibration generators. The vibration generators can thus be distributed on the device in such a way that they are aimed specifically at the respective areas of the body. For example, when the device is used as a mattress cover, the vibration generators can be arranged specifically in the area of the head, shoulders, pelvis, hips, thighs, lower legs and feet. If the device is used as a cover for the seat of a wheelchair, the vibration generators can be arranged specifically in the area of the hips and thighs.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, a control unit can be present. The vibration generators can be controlled individually via this control unit. In this way, only those vibration generators that are actually in direct contact with a person have to be controlled. The at least one vibration generator can preferably be embedded in an air-permeable fleece material. In this way, a comfortable lying feeling can be realized for the patient.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the vibration layer can have at least one resonance plate. This resonance plate should be arranged in the area of at least one vibration generator. The at least one vibration generator can form a resonance circuit with the associated resonance plate. The vibration layer can preferably have a number of resonance plates and the actuator layer can have a number of vibration generators. In this case can in each case a resonance plate interact with a vibration generator. The at least one soundboard can preferably be surrounded by a felt material.

The at least one soundboard can be made of plastic, metal or an organic material. Overall, the at least one resonance plate and the at least one vibration generator should be made of materials that permit corresponding vibration amplitudes. The natural resonance of the device depends on the dimensions and the number of vibration generators and resonance plates. In addition, the natural resonance depends on the elasticity of the respective material layers of the device, since the surrounding textile acts as a shock absorber.

In an advantageous embodiment, the protective layer can have a moisture-impermeable material. The protective layer can thus protect the actuator layer and the vibration layer from damage caused by moisture. This can be important for incontinent patients, for example. If moisture penetrates into the actuator layer and/or the vibration layer, a short circuit could otherwise occur and thus endanger the patient.

The stabilization layer, the actuator layer, the vibration layer and the protective layer can preferably be firmly connected to one another. Such an actuator functional layer can optionally be attached to the other layers of the device by means of suitable attachment elements. As a result, a simple replacement can be possible in the event of a defect in the actuator functional layer. In addition, the actuator functional layer can optionally only be attached to a corresponding cover for mattresses or other lying or support pads if required. If the actuator functional layer is no longer required, it can be removed again and used for other patients. Fastening elements in the form of zippers can be particularly advantageous. A secure, all-round attachment is possible by means of zip fasteners, which can also withstand greater loads. At the same time, the zippers can be easily opened and closed.

The top layer serves in particular for the comfort of the patient lying or sitting on the device. The topsheet may preferably be releasably attached to the protective sheet. In this way, the top layer can be washed or replaced if necessary. In a preferred embodiment, the top layer can be multilayered. A spacer layer can be arranged on the side of the top layer facing the protective layer. The spacer layer can preferably be designed as a spacer fabric.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, a sensor layer can be present. The pressure load between the device and the patient's body resting on the top layer can be analyzed by means of the sensor layer. This sensor layer can thus serve in particular to detect the position of the patient. In addition, the pressure distribution and the microclimate (particularly humidity and temperature) can also be determined by the sensor layer. This can be a pressure distribution system, for example. The sensor layer can have at least one inclination sensor and/or at least one pressure sensor.

The sensor layer can be present between the vibration layer and the protective layer, for example. This can be particularly advantageous when the sensor layer is also moisture-sensitive and should therefore be protected from moisture. Alternatively, the sensor layer can be present between the protective layer and the top layer. The sensor layer could also be part of the top layer and in particular be designed in one piece with the top layer.

Based on the data transmitted by the sensor layer, the amplitude of the vibration generator can be controlled and adjusted by a control unit. Changes in the patient's position and weight shifts can be recorded and taken into account when controlling the vibration generator. The linking of the sensor layer and the vibration generator can usually be done by means of a cable. The sensor layer and the vibration generator can be connected to a control unit. The control unit can also be designed as an evaluation system. The control unit can preferably be connected to the rest of the device via a cable connection. The control unit can thus be present separately from the material layers.

A pressure distribution measuring system present in the sensor layer can in particular consist of resistive sensors. These are embroidered, for example, in the form of wire onto a textile upholstery material. Conductive yarns or yarns coated with a conductive material can be used for this purpose. The geometry of the sensors can be implemented in such a way that a meandering shape similar to that of a strain gauge is achieved. Thus, when pressure is exerted by a body load, there is a change in resistance in the Thread determined, which can be correlated with an elongation or a pressure.

A mattress core can preferably be present on the side of the stabilization layer opposite the actuator layer.

Further advantages and features of the invention can be found in the features also specified in the claims and in the exemplary embodiments below.

character list

• 1 eine schematische Prinzipskizze einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung zur Prophylaxe von Dekubitus, die in eine Matratze integriert ist,
• 2 einen Querschnitt durch die Matratze gemäß 1, und
• 3 einen Ausschnitt aus dem Querschnitt gemäß 2

The invention is described and explained in more detail below with reference to the embodiment shown in the drawing. Show it:

• 1 a schematic outline sketch of a device according to the invention for the prophylaxis of decubitus, which is integrated into a mattress,
• 2 according to a cross-section through the mattress 1 , and
• 3 a section of the cross section according to 2

WAYS TO CARRY OUT THE INVENTION

The device 10 according to the invention for the prophylaxis of decubitus is integrated into a mattress 12 in the present example.

The device 10 has a topsheet 20 upon which a patient may lie. For reasons of hygiene, the upper layer 20 can regularly be covered with a sheet or another protective covering before a patient lies on the upper layer 20 . In the present example, the upper layer consists of a fine textile padding 22 and a spacer layer 24. The fine textile padding 22 and the spacer layer 24 are not connected to one another in the present example.

Beneath the spacer layer 24 is a protective layer 28 . The protective layer 28 is impervious to moisture, so that the underlying layers are protected from moisture. This is particularly important for incontinent patients.

Below the protective layer 28 there is a vibration layer 30. A plurality of resonance plates 32 are arranged in the vibration layer and are at a certain distance from one another. A felt material 34 is located between the resonance plates 32. The resonance plates 32 and the felt material 34 are each of the same height or thickness, so that a uniform vibration layer 30 results.

Below the vibration layer 30 is the actuator layer 40. The actuator layer has a fleece layer 42 which is air-permeable. Several vibration generators 44 are positioned in the fleece layer 42 . The vibration generators 44 are each located on the upper side of the actuator layer 40 facing the vibration layer 30 . The vibration generators 44 are distributed in the fleece layer 42 such that one vibration generator 44 is arranged below a resonance plate 32 . The vibration generators 44 are each surrounded by a layer of air 46 which is present between the vibration generator 44 and the fleece layer.

Below the actuator layer is a stabilization layer 50. The stabilization layer 50 has a solid, non-quilted material and ensures the stability of the device 10 according to the invention.

The protective layer 28, the vibration layer 30, the actuator layer 40 and the stabilization layer 50 are not connected to one another in the present example. They are only held in position by an edge limitation, not shown here. In contrast, it would also be possible to firmly bond some or all of the layers together.

Below the stabilization layer 50 there is a mattress core 60 with a textile bottom panel 62 in the present example. The device 10 is not attached to the mattress core 60 . However, the device 10 is integrated into the mattress 12 via an edge limitation, which is not shown here. In contrast to this exemplary embodiment, the device 10 could also be detachably attached to a mattress, for example comparable to a mattress pad or a protective cover for a mattress. In addition, the device 10 could also be placed on another seat or bed surface and, if necessary, fastened. The upholstery for this seating or lying surface could be formed by the top layer 20, or it could also already be present on the seating or lying surface.

Claims (22)

Device (10) for the prophylaxis of decubitus - with a stabilization layer (50), - with an actuator layer (40) adjoining the stabilization layer (50) and having at least one vibration generator (44), - with a vibration layer (30) which the the stabilizing layer (50) is present on the opposite side of the actuator layer (40), - with a protective layer (28), which is present on the side of the vibration layer (30) opposite the actuator layer (40), - with a top layer (20), which is present on the opposite side of the protective layer (28) from the vibration layer (30). device after claim 1 , - characterized in that - the stabilizing layer (50) comprises a solid material. device after claim 2 , - characterized in that - the stabilizing layer (50) comprises a solid, non-quilted fabric material. Device according to one of Claims 1 until 3 - characterized in that - the at least one vibration generator (44) is designed as a mass-spring oscillator. Device according to one of Claims 1 until 3 - The at least one vibration generator (44) is designed as a magnet system with a voice coil. Device according to one of the preceding claims, - characterized in that - the actuator layer (40) has a plurality of vibration generators (44). device after claim 6 , - characterized in that - a control unit is present via which the vibration generators (44) can be controlled individually. Device according to one of the preceding claims, - characterized in that - the at least one vibration generator (44) is embedded in an air-permeable fleece material (42). Device according to one of the preceding claims, - characterized in that - the vibration layer (30) has at least one resonance plate (32) which is arranged in the region of the at least one vibration generator (44). device after claim 9 , - characterized in that - the vibration layer (30) has a plurality of resonance plates (32), - the actuator layer (40) has a plurality of vibration generators (44), - each resonance plate (32) interacting with a vibration generator (44). device after claim 9 or 10 - characterized in that - the at least one soundboard (32) is surrounded by a felt material (34). Device according to one of claims 9 until 11 , - characterized in that - the soundboard (34) consists of plastic, metal or an organic material. Device according to one of the preceding claims, - characterized in that - the protective layer (28) comprises a moisture-impermeable material. Device according to one of the preceding claims, - characterized in that - the stabilization layer (50), the actuator layer (40), the vibration layer (30) and the protective layer (28) are firmly connected to one another. Device according to one of the preceding claims, - characterized in that - the top layer (20) is detachably attached to the protective layer (28). Device according to one of the preceding claims, - characterized in that - the top layer (20) is multi-layered, - a spacer layer (24) is arranged on the side of the top layer (20) facing the protective layer (28). Device according to one of the preceding claims, - characterized in that - a sensor layer is present. device after Claim 17 , - characterized in that - the sensor layer is present between the vibration layer (30) and the protective layer (28). device after Claim 17 , - characterized in that - the sensor layer is present between the protective layer (28) and the top layer (20). device after Claim 17 , - characterized in that - the sensor layer is part of the top layer (20). Device according to one of claims 17 until 20 - characterized in that - the sensor layer has at least one inclination sensor and/or at least one pressure sensor. Device according to one of the preceding claims, - characterized in that - there is a mattress core (60) on the side of the stabilizing layer (50) opposite the actuator layer (40).

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