The effect of wheelchair cushions with different properties on skin temperature, moisture and thermal perception during passive sitting in a warm environment

INTRODUCTION: The cushion microclimate is an important risk factor for pressure injury. To date, the microclimate responses to wheelchair cushions have not been assessed in warm environments where they are potentially most problematic. A cooling wheelchair cushion has been developed to minimise temperature and moisture accumulation; however, no independent research has been conducted on this cushion. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of wheelchair cushions and a novel cooling wheelchair cushion on temperature, moisture and perception during passive sitting in a warm environment. METHODS: A randomised crossover study was conducted to determine microclimate responses to three wheelchair cushions of differing properties. Eighteen able-bodied participants sat passively on each cushion for two hours in 28-30 °C. Tympanic temperature, skin and groin temperature, relative humidity and thermal perception were measured. RESULTS: The cooling cushion produced significantly lower temperatures at the ischial tuberosities and the groin. The air cushion produced significantly lower temperatures at the posterior thigh. CONCLUSION: The novel cooling cushion was effective in reducing temperatures in the areas closest to the cooling element, while the air cushion effectively reduced the temperature at the posterior thigh where the comparator cushions had foam properties.