low-cost PRESSURE ulcer solution
low-cost PRESSURE ulcer solution
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Project synopsis - Cardboard Wedge Prototype
Project synopsis - Cardboard Wedge Prototype
The goal of this project was to create an affordable prototype wedge that could prevent bed sores in patients with limited to no mobility. Our team modified a simple wedge made from cardboard boxes that can provide elevation and relieve pressure on high risk areas like the sacrum and heels. They tested different cardboard materials to find the optimum strength and friction properties.
The team plans to deploy the wedge by educating nurses at seminars on how to construct it and providing take-home instructions for patients being discharged from the hospital. Patients or their caregivers could then build the wedge at home using readily available cardboard boxes. The instructions will be available in print and digital formats on the website.
This project was initially conceptualized by a team of engineering students, organized by Dr. Ellzey, and the prototype was further developed and added instructional material by Mackenzie Noell, Meron Terefi, Lauren Guerra-Flores, Daniel Guerra, and Wilson Kimutai.
how do you use the cardboard wedge?
how do you use the cardboard wedge?
The device is placed under the patient's back, at the upper and lower body. It holds the patient at an angle of 35 degrees from the bed, the maximum angle to prevent skin shear. This wedge shape helps redistribute pressure away from high-risk areas like the tailbone and heels by elevating the patient's trunk and thighs. Maintaining an inclined position decreases pressure magnitude at the sacrum by about 50% compared to lying flat. The wedge can be easily inserted underneath patients by rolling them to one side.
Made from cardboard boxes, the wedge offers an affordable and accessible way to reduce bed sore risk among immobilized patients. It can be built by hospital staff or family members with simple instruction. Along with regular turning, the wedge provides crucial pressure relief between position changes. It allows patients to stay securely elevated for an extended duration rather than being flat on their backs. This low-cost, low-tech tool empowers caregivers and families to take preventive measures using available materials.
video demonstration
video demonstration
Iterative design process and Stages
Iterative design process and Stages
The wedge prototype went through several iterations before arriving at the current design. The team initially explored ideas like corn husk bandages and heel supports made from cardboard. After consultations with nurses and learning more about pressure ulcer causes, they pivoted to a full wedge design.
Early cardboard wedge prototypes were tested for issues like sliding and shear forces. The team experimented with different wedge slopes, materials, and friction coatings. They found the ideal angle to be 35 degrees, which balances pressure relief with preventing shear forces from sliding. The friction testing helped select cardboard types and surfaces that were sturdy enough but not too slippery. The dimensions and shape of the wedge were refined through successive prototypes. The team modeled it after the average size of patients’ backs for appropriate elevation and support. They evaluated factors like comfort, durability, and ease of construction. The final wedge design provides thigh support and open sides to check skin.
Throughout this iterative process, the team continuously integrated feedback from nurses and wound care experts. This collaboration enabled design improvements grounded in clinical experience and stakeholder needs. The result is a wedge prototype optimized for usability, prevention effectiveness, and efficient production using available materials.
Below, are some of the iterations that have been documented:
OVERVIEW OF THE INSTRUCTIONS
OVERVIEW OF THE INSTRUCTIONS
Along with developing the prototype wedge, the team created visual instructions detailing how to construct and use the device. These illustrated guides emphasize clear, step-by-step directions so that anyone can build the wedge, regardless of language or literacy level. The instructions mimic simple formats like origami diagrams or IKEA manuals that convey information through intuitive visuals
There are two components to the instructions:
An overview flyer that explains why the wedge helps prevent bedsores and broadly outlines the construction process. This motivates the purpose behind the device and its benefits.
A step-by-step brochure walking through each stage of assembling the wedge using pictures and minimal text. The sequential images show the exact materials needed and how to put them together.
These guides cater to diverse audiences and learning styles. By relying on visual aids, they make the instructions universally accessible. Caregivers and hospital staff can follow along to build the prototype without language acting as a barrier. The intuitive format also suits different literacy levels. These design considerations aim to maximize the educational reach and impact of the instructions. Thorough visuals empower broad audiences to take preventive measures against bedsores using this simple, DIY wedge.
pictures of the instructions
pictures of the instructions
INSTRUCTIONS: MULTI-PAGE FORMAT (ENGLISH)
INSTRUCTIONS: MULTI-PAGE FORMAT (ENGLISH)
Cardboard_Wedge_Instructions.pdfINSTRUCTIONS: PAMPHLET FORMAT (ENGLISH)
INSTRUCTIONS: PAMPHLET FORMAT (ENGLISH)
Cardboard_Wedge_Pamphlet.pdfPage updated
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