Role of Underpads in Healthcare Settings

In the spectrum of healthcare, every detail matters, and often it's the small, seemingly mundane items that play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of patients. Underpads, also known as Chux, fall into this category. These disposable absorbent pads serve a vital function in healthcare settings, silently contributing to patient comfort, hygiene, and the overall smooth functioning of healthcare facilities. Let’s understand the importance of underpads in healthcare settings.

What is an Underpad? 

Underpads, often referred to as Chux, are specialised disposable pads designed to safeguard surfaces from fluid leakage, making them a cornerstone of infection prevention in medical environments. Comprising multiple layers, including a soft top layer in contact with the patient's skin, an absorbent core to contain fluids, and a waterproof backing, underpads are engineered to address a myriad of healthcare challenges.

Importance in Healthcare Settings

Incontinence Management: One of the primary applications of underpads is to manage incontinence issues among patients. Whether dealing with elderly individuals, post-surgery patients, or those with certain medical conditions, incontinence can pose a significant challenge. Underpads provide a practical solution by offering a waterproof barrier that protects bedding, mattresses, and furniture from bodily fluids, reducing the risk of infections and maintaining a clean and comfortable environment for the patient.

Pressure Sore Prevention: Patients who are bedridden or have limited mobility are susceptible to developing pressure sores, also known as bedsores. Underpads play a pivotal role in preventing these sores by keeping the patient's skin dry and free from prolonged exposure to moisture. The absorbent core of underpads wicks away fluids, reducing the chances of skin breakdown and promoting a healthier healing environment.

Surgical and Medication Procedure: In various medical procedures, patients may experience minor bleeding, drainage, or other fluid discharge. Underpads act as a reliable protective layer in these situations, preventing the spread of contaminants and maintaining a sterile environment. They are especially crucial in surgical settings, where maintaining a clean and sterile field is paramount to patient safety.

Cost-Effective Solution: While the initial cost of underpads may seem like an added expense, their cost-effectiveness becomes apparent when considering the potential expenses related to treating infections, purchasing new bedding, and investing in more extensive cleaning procedures. Preventing complications through the use of underpads can lead to significant cost savings in the long run.

Childbirth and Neonatal Care: Maternity wards and neonatal care units extensively use underpads during childbirth and in caring for newborns. They provide a hygienic layer between the mother and the bed, ensuring a clean and comfortable environment. For neonates, underpads offer protection against unexpected spills and contribute to the overall cleanliness and infection control in the delicate neonatal care setting.

Hygiene and Infection Control

Cross-Contamination Prevention: Underpads act as a barrier, preventing the spread of infectious agents from one patient to another. In healthcare settings, where the risk of cross-contamination is ever-present,  the use underpads become internal in maintaining a hygienic and safe environment for both 

Easy Cleanup and Maintenance: The disposable nature of underpads facilitates quick and efficient cleanup. This not only contributes to the ease of maintenance for healthcare staff but also ensures that patients are provided with fresh and clean surroundings regularly, reducing the risk of infections associated with prolonged exposure to bodily fluids. 

How to Use an Underpad

Underpads, commonly known as Chux, are versatile and essential products designed to provide protection against leaks and spills. Whether you're dealing with incontinence, changing a baby's diaper, or protecting surfaces during medical procedures, knowing how to use underpads effectively can make the task much more manageable. Here's a quick guide on how to use underpads or Chux:

• Select an underpad or Chux that matches your specific needs, considering both size and absorbency levels.
• Ensure the surface where you plan to place the underpad is clean and dry to prevent moisture from seeping through.
• Place the underpad with the absorbent side facing up, ensuring the waterproof backing is in contact with the surface you want to protect.
• If provided, use adhesive strips or wings to secure the underpad in place, minimising the risk of shifting during use.
• Depending on the level of incontinence or the task, change the underpad regularly to maintain cleanliness and prevent leaks.
• When it's time for a change, fold or roll the underpad, containing any soiled areas, and dispose of it in a lined waste bin.
•  For added security, place an underpad directly on the bed under the sheets, particularly useful during the night.
• Keep a few underpads handy for on-the-go situations, providing a clean surface in car seats, strollers, or public changing areas.
• Store underpads in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, to maintain their effectiveness.

Understanding and following these simple steps will help you effectively use underpads or Chux in various situations, promoting hygiene and comfort.

In the intricate tapestry of healthcare, every component, no matter how inconspicuous, plays a vital role. Underpads, often overlooked, emerge as unsung heroes in patient care. Their role in maintaining hygiene, preventing infections, and contributing to overall patient comfort cannot be overstated. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, the importance of underpads in creating a safe and conducive environment for healing remains steadfast. In the grand narrative of healthcare, underpads stand as a testament to the significance of even the smallest details in ensuring the well-being of patients and the effectiveness of healthcare services.

Elevating Patient Care with Dignity Mattey Disposable Underpads

Understanding the diverse needs of patients, Romsons has designed Dignity Disposable Mattey with a user-centric approach. Mattey Underpads cater to different requirements, whether for use on beds, chairs, or during medical procedures. Dignity Mattey is not just a product; it is a testament to the belief that dignity is not negotiable, even in the most challenging healthcare scenarios. 

The inclusion of adhesive strips ensures a secure fit, preventing any movement that might compromise the underpad's effectiveness. This thoughtful design not only enhances the user experience but also streamlines the workflow for healthcare professionals. Check out the features of Dignity Mattey Disposable Underpads given below:

• Extra Soft Top Sheet made from non-woven fabric provides cloth-like comfort and helps keep skin dry and healthy.
• Silicone Release Liners stick to any surface easily to prevent any underpad displacement due to movement.
• Super Absorbent Core locks moisture quickly, leaving the user dry and comfortable for hours.
• Unique Quilted Pattern helps in even and rapid absorption of the fluid.
• PE Back Sheet provides cloth-like comfort, while Side Seal helps prevent any leakage.
• Ideal for incontinence or post-operative use in hospitals, nursing homes and home care.
• Convenient and Portable, these are easy to carry and store, whether you're at home or travelling.

Also, check out the Dignity Incontinence Range by clicking here: