Name of the Procedure:

Lambswool Sheepskin Pad

• Common Names: Sheepskin Pad, Wool Pad
• Technical/Medical Term: HCPCS Procedure Code E0189

Summary

A lambswool sheepskin pad is a soft, cushion-like pad made of natural lambswool, designed to be placed on a bed, chair, or other surfaces to provide comfort and reduce pressure on the skin. It is used in various healthcare settings to prevent pressure sores and improve patient comfort.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Pressure ulcers (bedsores)
• Skin maceration
• Chronic pain or discomfort due to prolonged immobility

Goals:

• To alleviate pressure on vulnerable areas of the body
• Prevent the development of pressure ulcers
• Enhance overall patient comfort during extended periods of immobility

Indications

Symptoms or Conditions:

• Patients with limited mobility
• Individuals prone to developing pressure ulcers
• Post-operative patients requiring longer bed rest
• Patients with chronic conditions causing prolonged immobility

Patient Criteria:

• Elderly or debilitated patients
• Bedridden patients or those confined to a chair for extended periods
• Individuals with existing pressure sores

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments required.
• Ensure the pad is clean and dry before use.
• Validate the patient’s skin condition to identify any existing pressure sores.

Diagnostic Tests:

• Skin assessment for pressure sores or other dermatological conditions

Procedure Description

1. Skin Assessment: Evaluate the patient's skin for any signs of pressure sores.
2. Pad Placement: Lay the sheepskin pad flat on the mattress, chair, or surface where the patient will be positioned.
3. Patient Positioning: Carefully position the patient on top of the pad, ensuring their body parts that are at high risk for pressure sores are well cushioned.
4. Regular Monitoring: Observe the patient’s skin condition regularly and adjust the pad as required to prevent bunching or shifting.
5. Cleaning and Maintenance: Regularly clean the sheepskin pad according to the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain hygiene and effectiveness.

Tools/Equipment Used:

• Lambswool sheepskin pad
• Standard bed or chair
• Skin assessment tools (e.g., inspection mirror)

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Not applicable

Duration

• Continuous use based on the patient's needs, with regular repositioning every 2-3 hours.

Setting

• The procedure can be performed in hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, or at home.

Personnel

• Nurses
• Caregivers
• Physicians (for initial assessment and follow-up)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Minimal risks; generally considered safe.

  Rare Risks:

• Allergic reactions to wool (very rare)
• Skin irritation if not properly maintained

Possible Complications:

• None significant if maintained and used properly.

Benefits

• Prevention of pressure ulcers
• Increased patient comfort
• Enhanced skin health

Realization of Benefits:

• Benefits are typically immediate upon correct usage.

Recovery

Post-procedure Care:

• Regular skin assessments
• Frequent repositioning

Expected Recovery Time:

• Continuous use as a preventive measure; not applicable as it is not a one-time procedure.

Restrictions and Follow-up:

• No significant restrictions; continuous monitoring is essential.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Foam cushions
• Gel pads
• Specialized mattresses (e.g., air-fluidized beds)

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Foam cushions: Affordable but may compress over time.
• Gel pads: Offer good pressure distribution but can be heavy.
• Specialized mattresses: Highly effective but expensive and require a power source.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Patients should feel increased comfort and relief from pressure.

  After the Procedure:

• Consistent comfort while immobile or bedridden.
• Pain management is generally not necessary as it is a non-invasive and pain-free intervention.