PRESSURE ULCER TREATMENT & PRESSURE ULCER PREVENTION
USING AUSTRALIAN MEDICAL SHEEPSKIN

Launched in 1997, the Australian Medical Sheepskin was a world first in pressure ulcer treatment and pressure ulcer prevention. Then, in August 2000, researchers began the world's largest clinical trial on pressure ulcer treatment and pressure ulcer prevention using medical sheepskin. Focusing on bedsores, the trial was carried out by The Royal Melbourne Hospital and the CSIRO Textile and Fibre Technology Leather Research Centre, with funding from the National Health Medical Research Council. The results confirmed the advantages of medical sheepskin in pressure ulcer prevention and pressure ulcer treatment.

Bedsores can begin in patients (both young and old) within 4 hours of their being immobilised in bed. Bedsores cost the Australian healthcare system more than $350 million a year, slowing the recovery and prolonging the hospital stays of many patients.

Even though the value of medical sheepskin in pressure ulcer treatment has been clearly established over the past 60 years... the relatively new HiTemp medical sheepskin, with its remarkable long-lasting, washable and hardwearing properties, and longer wool length provides improved pressure relief and support. Tests demonstrate that patients using medical sheepskin for pressure ulcer treatment benefit from a reduction in pressure of more than 50%, compared to a standard mattress or mattress cover .

In the past, reference to poor performance in preventing and treating bedsores is associated with the use of synthetic or low density tufted woollen products. Health care bodies and the general public are not aware of the great differences between genuine medical sheepskin and other synthetic products. These great differences relate to cushioning, moisture absorption and friction, and have a remarkable effect on bedsores.

The greatly improved performance and durability of the HiTemp medical sheepskin along with the benefit to cost ratio has ensured its success to date. Favourable responses from nursing & laundry staff, and patients alike are testament to the quality of this product and the effectiveness with which it treats and prevents bedsores.