Trelleborg to Present Healthcare Fabric Options at the OT Show
Richard Haxby, Technical Director, Healthcare & Medical at Trelleborg Engineered Coated Fabrics in Nottingham, England, will present the benefits of using coated fabrics in seating and positioning applications to occupational therapists as part of the company’s sponsorship of Theatre 2.
Richard Haxby said: “Sometimes there is a misconception amongst occupational therapists and other clinicians that coated fabrics are not an optimum choice for patients who are seated for long periods of time.
“In fact, coated fabrics are an ideal choice, as polyurethane lets textiles stretch in ways that allow a seat to conform to a patient and redistribute pressure. Additionally – and importantly - these fabrics are breathable, meaning the moisture produced by a patient’s body can move through the fabric. This helps keep an individual’s skin cool and dry.”
As well as providing an overview of the general properties of coated textiles, Haxby will present the latest innovations in antimicrobial textiles used for infection control.
“In the wake of the global pandemic, infection control remains a high priority for many clinicians. Fabric technology has evolved to deliver additional levels of protection against bacteria and viruses, while providing added peace of mind for patients and caregivers,” said Richard Haxby. “Our latest development in this area demonstrates a fast-acting antimicrobial effect, with zero percent bacterial survival on a Dartex® surface after 24 hours.”
Trelleborg Engineered Coated Fabrics focuses on innovation in healthcare & medical textiles. One of its recent product launches was the Dartex Zoned Coatings® fabric. The fabric allows different combinations of stretch properties across its surface without changing the textile. For example, patients could benefit from a breathable center area for skin contact purposes, while clinicians could benefit from a tougher edge for durability.
The company also offers Dartex® Smart Textiles; an exciting concept where sensors are part of a textile construction. This eliminates the need for an additional sensing surface, such as a pressure mat, which could leave vulnerable skin more at risk to avoidable pressure injuries.
About the OT Show
The Occupational Therapy Show is the UK’s leading event for the Occupational Therapy community. The show’s driving force is to make it easier for Occupational Therapists to find updated information, new resources, and support from peers, all in one place.
Speakers are carefully selected, and the content is thoughtfully curated for OTs of all bands and specialisms.