Recent advances in absorbent products for the incontinent patient with burns.

The purpose of this study is to describe the physical configuration of disposable and reusable absorbent products and relate composition and construction to efficacy in the management of urinary incontinence in patients with burn injuries. The basic structure of a wearable absorbent product consists of three layers: a fluid-impermeable backing sheet, a fluid-pervious coverstock on the body-contacting surface, and an interposed absorbent core. The biomechanical performance of these absorbent products was determined by measuring the total absorbent capacity, defined as the maximum amount of liquid held by the product as a whole. On the basis of the results of this study, absorbent products are recommended for the incontinent patient with burns.

Innovations in the design and performance of underpads for patients with burns.

The purpose of this study was to determine the biomechanical performance of commercially available underpads and bed linens to reduce the development of pressure sores in patients with burns who are at high risk. The three biomechanical performance parameters examined were coefficient of friction, absorbent capacity, and rewet. Because wetting either cotton or cotton/polyester bedsheets markedly increases their coefficients of friction, underpads should be used routinely to protect the skin against frictional forces. One disposable underpad is ideally suited to protect the skin of the patient at high risk. It has a polyolefin backing with a low coefficient of friction that serves as an effective barrier to moisture transmission while still shifting easily with the patient's movement. In addition, it is the only underpad studied that contains a superabsorbent polymer that provides a far superior absorbent capacity and minimizes rewet. Wet-back is further inhibited by its thick intermediate tissue layer and its spunbonded polypropylene coverstock.

Adaptive clothing for persons with mobility disorders after burn injury.

Smart-looking clothes have been designed for wheelchair users. These clothes make dressing faster and easier, and the clothes fit better than the standard garments. The special features for new adaptive clothing for wheelchair users include easy handling fastenings, quick-access garment openings, conveniently placed pockets, custom-curved trousers, slacks, and jackets, custom-shaped dresses and skirts, ponchos or custom-made coats, easy-fit undergarments, and durable styled fabrics. These clothing adaptations are attractive and give the wearer and the observer the feeling that the person with the disability is not set apart by the clothing he or she wears.