Medical and Nursing
Sheepskins
Australian Medical
Sheepskins
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Pressure ulcers (bed sores) are a major cause of patient pain and
suffering, with attendant health care costs in hospitals and aged care facilities. The pain and
the cost can be alleviated by using a simple but effective bedding overlay product developed by
CSIRO - the Australian Medical Sheepskin.
MobilityRentals & Sales is proud to be a supplier of Australian
Medical Sheepskins.
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Pressure ulcers (decubitus ulcers) result from tissue breakdown caused by pressure or friction at the point of
contact between patient and supporting surface as well as moisture or humidity build-up close to the skin.
Australian Medical Sheepskins more than halve the incidence of pressure ulcers, and withstand
multiple washing at 80 °C in a hospital environment.
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The Australian Medical Sheepskin is a remarkable device for pressure ulcer
prevention. The internationally recognised Australian Standard AS 4480.1 for medical sheepskins
is based on collaboration with the CSIRO Leather Research Centre, the Meat Research
Corporation, Fleececraft Industries and Standards Australia together with the support of the
local Australian woolskin tanning industry. |
The Standard is endorsed by the Australian Health Department and the Department for Industry, Science and
Resources. Australian Medical Sheepskins meet performance requirements in nursing homes and hospitals,
including specialist units such as operating theatres and intensive care units. They are especially effective
against pressure ulcers because their ultra-dense wool pile greatly reduces pressure, friction and moisture.
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Important components of the Standard are: wool type, fibre length, the final
finish, and the ability of the wool and skin to withstand many wash / dry cycles without
deterioration. Medical grade sheepskins are manufactured to withstand multiple washes at
temperatures of 80° C, thus ensuring they are sterile for the user.
The wool
fibres and staples, held intact by the tanned skin, enable the Australian Medical Sheepskin to
provide support while relieving pressure by distributing the load of a patient over a
large area. This pressure reducing interface provides low friction and excellent moisture
absorption.
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All sheepskins claiming compliance with the Australian Standard AS 4480.1-1997 must have a replica of the
Australian Medical Sheepskin symbol permanently bonded to the leather. These medical grade sheepskins are
typically coloured green. Any sheepskin claiming to be medically compliant with the Australian Standard but
which does not have the Standards symbol stamp should be treated with suspicion.

We are also able to offer items manufactured from the medical sheepskin such as heel protectors, elbow
protectors, wheelchair covers, crutch covers, and bed pads.
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