Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare’s Regional VP of Pressure Prevention to Speak at International Seating Symposium

Port Washington, NY – March 6, 2018

Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare announced that Karen Lerner, Regional VP of Pressure Prevention, will give a presentation entitled "Befuddled about Support Surfaces? Become an Expert" at the 34th International Seating Symposium in Vancouver, BC on March 8 at 1 p.m.

Lerner, RN, MSN, ATP, CWS, will speak on knowing when and how to recommend and evaluate the clinical effectiveness of support surfaces to help ATPs and clinicians prevent and treat pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers occur when the skin dies due to lack of blood flow. Knowing what equipment to use for each case is crucial to maintaining skin integrity and normal blood flow.

"Using the right equipment or technology on the right type of patient will affect the right clinical outcome," Lerner said. "Everyone wins. But a one-size-fits-all approach will surely create losers."

Support surfaces come in a variety of shapes and sizes specifically made for beds, chairs, wheelchairs and for use while reclining or sitting. According to Lerner, many bed surfaces are designed to not only address pressure redistribution but humidity, temperature, friction, maceration, user comfort and pulmonary function as well. Support surfaces for seats and wheelchairs aid with positioning needs as well as pressure distribution.

And this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to support surface capabilities. Some offer pulsation instead of alternating pressure to increase lymphatic drainage and blood flow while decreasing discomfort and pain. Others are equipped with cell in cell technology that prevents bottoming out in case of power failure. Because there are so many support surface options available, it's important to become familiar with the products to meet the needs of each user or patient.

"Educated and critical thinking is required when selecting the right support surface for pressure redistribution," she said. "Look for clinical examples and referrals, learn the products and remember that support surfaces help get blood flow to the skin, a critical component of pressure prevention and treatment."

The symposium, held on March 6 - 9 at The Westin Bayshore, will host over 1,000 physiotherapists, occupational therapists, equipment suppliers, and engineers to discuss emerging research for seating and mobility practices, compare new and existing positioning and mobility equipment, techniques and interventions, and explain advantages and disadvantages of service delivery models.

To learn more about Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare and our line of support surfaces, visit www.drivemedical.com.

About Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare

Headquartered in Port Washington, New York, Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare manufactures a complete line of medical products, including mobility products, sleep and respiratory products, beds, bariatric products, wheelchairs, sleep surfaces and pressure prevention products, self-assist products, power operated wheelchairs, rehabilitation products, patient room equipment, personal care products and electrotherapy devices. Currently,the Company has corporate offices, manufacturing facilities and distribution facilities located throughout the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, China, Hong Kong, Romania, Australia, the Netherlands and India. The Company markets its products to customers located throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Middle East and Asia. For more information, www.drivemedical.com.