Medical textiles with low friction for decubitus prevention

Decubitus or pressure ulcers in immobile patients are associated with prolonged pressure, shear and friction forces acting on the skin and the soft tissue underneath. We investigated the friction behaviour of hospital bed sheets in comparison with prototypes of low friction textiles in order to assess their potential for decubitus prevention. A specific textile composed of synthetic fibres showed a factor of three lower friction than normal hospital bed sheets under both dry and wet conditions. By absorbing and distributing interfacial water within the textile structure, the prototype additionally exhibited beneficial water transport properties.

► The friction behaviour of a novel prototype of a hospital bed sheet was investigated.
► Low friction was found in contact conditions that are relevant for immobile patients.
► The distribution of interfacial water during friction was measured using thermography.
► Efficient water transport within the textile limited the influence on friction.
► The prototype performed better than normal bed sheets under dry and wet conditions.