Glossary of terms

Alternating Air Pressure Mattresses, also known as replacement or dynamic mattress systems – mattresses which have cells of air which alternately inflate and deflate in a cycle to relieve pressure on the body. 
 
Bottoming-Out - if a mattress or cushion is too soft or thin, it may become compacted which will remove any pressure relieving qualities. 
 
Breathable – a fabric which permits air to pass through. 
 
Conformity – water, gel, air and memory foam moves to conform to the shape and movement of the body. However conformity does affect the ability to relieve pressure by leaning to one side as the surface will conform to the user’s new position. 
 
Contamination - the presence of extraneous, especially infectious, material that renders a substance or preparation impure or harmful. 
 
Decubitus – a lying down or horizontal position. 
 
Durable – a product or fabric which is capable of withstanding wear, tear and decay. 
 
Fire Retardancy – pressure relief cushions and mattresses are tested to Medical Devices Agency (MDA) criteria. There are similar standards set by the British Standards Institute (BSI) which are particularly important for users who smoke or have difficultly moving in an emergency. 
 
Friction – occurs when the skin is rubbed against a surface such as bed sheets. 
 
Incontinence – the inability to control the bladder and/ or bowel which can increase the risk of pressure sores due to the dampness of the skin causing the skin to breakdown. 
 
Ischaemia – deficiency in the blood supply to a part of the body. 
 
Ischial tuberosity - a bony swelling on the posterior part of the superior ramus of the ischium that gives attachment to various muscles and bears the weight of the body in sitting, the bones under the buttocks. 
 
Norton Scale - a risk assessment scale designed to help identify a person at risk of developing pressure sores. 
 
Pressure – when skin and tissue is compressed between bone and a hard place, such as a bed or wheelchair. 
 
Pressure Sore – is an ulcer of the skin due to pressure causing a lack of blood supply to the area. 
 
Sacrum - triangular bone forming the back of the pelvis and a common location of pressure sores. 
 
Shear – occurs when the tissue of the body and the skin are pulled in different directions for example when a person is dragged or slips down on bed sheets. 
 
Trochanter – part of the femur bone, one of two rough knobs on the upper thigh bone where the thigh muscles between the thigh and the pelvis are attached. 
 
Waterlow Scale – a risk assessment scale designed to help identify a person at risk of developing pressure sores. 
 











SupaSupport pressure relief systems minimise cross infection and hygiene problems which have recently become major issues facing Health Service providers across Europe. Systems are available in a range of materials and support levels to provide maximum comfort.