subject: Understanding Patient Return Pads [print this page] Sticky pads are those that have an adhesive edge that comes in direct contact with the skin of the patient. These are flexible to conform to the curves of the body, and have foil covered in polymer that allows the mat to cling to the skin.
The slip has to be large so that the density of the electric current is low when the energy leaves the body of the individual. If the density of the current is high, electricity may build up under the pad and cause burning.
Heat will increase if the slip is too small and the area of contact is reduced. Heat will also rise if the slip is not in full contact with the body as it should be.
If the area of contact with the sticky mats is somehow impaired, the surface area impendence may be compromised during the procedure. Other factors that may interfere with electricity flow needs are excessive hair, bony prominences, fluids, scar and adipose tissue, and prostheses.
New systems of generators were developed in order to reduce occurrences of patient burns at the site of contact with the electrode mats. The new machine monitors the quantity and quality of contact the mat makes with the individual.
This monitoring takes place with a microprocessor. Monitoring mats are easily differentiated because of their split foil surface, as opposed to only having a large single sheet of foil seen on standard pads.
With the new system, the generator will alarm and deactivate if the contact with the electrode mat is interrupted. The adhesives can, however, contribute to skin problems that occur during the recovery period of the patient after surgery.
The occurrence of pressure ulcers caused by the adhesives of the sticky slip is very rare. Some argue that the elimination of single plate sticky slips would be most beneficial.
The exception to that belief would be in cases of neonatal procedures or when it is the only sufficient technology available. In cases of neonatal procedures, it is safest to use the largest pad available with the lowest possible power setting.
The ideal characteristics of a patient electrode return pad is one that is safe, cost effective, and reduces or eliminates the chance for pressure sores on the skin. To meet this need, a soft, reusable electrode return mat was developed.
This mat is available in both single and dual cord configurations. It is also filled with a viscoelastic polymer.
This reusable slip serves as a function for multiple critical situations. The main function is as a means of dispersing electrosurgical energy.
The polymer also prevents pressure points, friction, and sheering. By placing the individual in direct contact with the electrode mat, it provides the maximum reduction of pressure while still allowing for the high level of safety that is offered in monitoring pads.
The reusable slip automatically limits the flow of electric currents from the patient to the pad if the contact area that the individual has with the mat decrease to a minimal level. By doing this automatically, the density of the current is kept at a low level to prevent the buildup of heat under the mat.
As far as costs go, the slip allows for many savings because it is reusable. It can also reduce the need for post-operative pressure sores that need to be treated. The savings are seen immediately after purchase when doctors do not need to throw away the pad after use, but can rather disinfect in for another procedure.
Patients also save when they do not have to pay the medical fee for additional treatment for pressure sores and ulcerations that occurred as a result of the procedure. There are many possible factors that can cause pressure sores and ulcers.
Some of these factors arise during the actual procedure, such as friction, shearing, direct pressure, or the length of the time the slip is in contact with the individual. Other factors may include the age and health of the patient.
Friction may occur when the skin is pulled or rubbed on a stationary object. Shearing can occur when the underlying tissue shifts or is moved without the support of the skeletal system, and the individual's skin is in a fixed position.
An ischemic reaction in the deep tissue can be a result of direct pressure or weight being applied for an extended period of time. Ischemia can then extend outwardly to the soft tissue layers of the dermis if the bone pushes against the muscle and causes damage.
This then results in necrosis when the tissue is starved of blood and oxygen. This pressure may also result in nerve damage.
