Page 34 - Norco Patient Orientation Handbook e-book
P. 34
EQUIPMENT CHECKLISTS
ALTERNATING PRESSURE PAD AND PUMP
Education
Explain the goals of alternating pressure pad/pump therapy: To prevent pressure sores and decubitus ulcers.
Explain that pad/pump should be used according to a physician’s prescription.
Demonstration
Remove bed coverings from mattress. Place alternating pressure pad on top of the mattress and remake the
bed so that only the sheet is between patient and the alternating pressure pad.
Attach air supply tubing to the alternating pressure pad and pump. Place unit on the floor under edge of the
bed and connect pump power cord to electrical wall receptacle. Turn on pump. Some pumps will come on
automatically when plugged into wall outlet. Allow up to twenty minutes for alternating pressure pad to
inflate fully.
Demonstrate how to adjust air pressure level on the pump (low to high). Patient comfort determines the
level needed.
Allow pump to operate at all times when patient is in bed.
Cleaning/Maintenance/Troubleshooting
Pump: always unplug pump from electrical outlet before cleaning. Wipe pump with a damp, not wet, cloth.
Never submerse pump in water or liquids.
Clean mattress pad with a mild soap and water solution. If body fluids or other potentially infectious
material (OPIM) is present, clean with a 1:9 bleach/water solution and allow to dry for 10 minutes.
If pump is operating, but pad is not inflated:
9 Check air supply tubing connections at pump and pad.
9 Check pad for cuts, rips, or holes. Patch with tape. If pad still does not inflate, call Norco.
Alternating pressure pad: remove pad from bed; wipe with clean cloth dampened with clean warm water and
mild soap. Allow to air dry before replacing pad on bed.
If alternating pressure pump is not operating:
9 Check power cord at wall receptacle. Does a light switch operate wall receptacle?
9 Check “on-off” switch on pump. If pump is plugged into power source and unit is turned on, but will not
operate, call Norco.
Never attempt to repair the pump.
AMBULATORY AIDS
Cane, Quad Cane, Walker
Education
Discuss the purpose: To help an individual remain mobile by providing assistance to walking.
Follow your physician or therapist’s instructions carefully when using ambulatory aids.
Demonstration
Walkers: When using the walker for the first time, have someone present who can assist you until you
become familiar with its use.
9 Handgrips height: While in a standing position, have someone adjust the height of all four-walker legs to
place the height of the handgrips slightly above the wrists. This provides a slight bend in the elbow
while standing straight and holding the handgrips. Make sure all push buttons are popped out in the
adjustment holes.
Follow slightly behind the walker, taking care not to place your feet all the way into the front of the walker
frame. Doing so could result in the loss of balance or the tendency to fall forward.
