Summertime can be a difficult time for those who need to wear medical devices during the day. Hot weather can make straps, masks, and holding devices to your body more uncomfortable, and more likely to trap sweat. If you are a senior or caring for a senior with a medical device, it can help to have a few ways to beat the heat of wearing a medical device in the summer.
Secure Medical Devices with Breathable Gauze
Medical devices, straps, and fixtures often need to be secured to the body. This can be done with straps and can be secured with waterproof plastic wrap. During the summer, however, switch your securing methods to a lightweight and breathable gauze. Wrap firmly, but with enough space to get two fingers under the gauze comfortably without damage to the skin. This can help to prevent sweat accumulation and allow continual evaporation.
Take Breaks and Keep a Schedule
Not all medical devices need to be worn 100% of the time, so taking breaks is key. Keep a schedule and set a timer or alarm to make sure that you spend time with the medical device and the straps off the skin. This will give you as much time as possible for your skin to breathe and relax without straps or heat compression when wearing the medical device. Your timer can also remind you to put the device back on according to your medication schedule.
Cleanse Your Skin Between Wearing
Each time you take off or change out the medical device, gently cleanse the skin. A mildly damp cloth or face cleansing wipes can freshen the skin and clean away sweat. Then pat the skin dry and make sure that there is no accumulating pressure damage before returning the medical device. The longer you can rest with clean, drying skin between wearings, the better, especially in the summer.
Wrap Straps in Terrycloth
Terrycloth strap covers can make a big difference for summer medical device comfort. This is a trick used for pool bags, summer backpacks, and workout equipment. You can find strips of terrycloth that are secure with velcro, snaps, or zippers to line the straps of your medical device. Terrycloth will absorb and dissipate sweat much like wearing a towel between skin and straps.
Change Out Dry Straps During the Day
If your medical device straps get damp during the day, get multiple sets. You can switch out the damp straps for fresh straps. Lay damp straps out to dry or lightly wash and dry them in order to cycle them out. We recommend at least three sets of straps as it can take time for heavy or elastic device straps to dry when laid out and a backup set is useful.
Staying Cool and Comfortable in a Medical Device
Medical devices are closely attached to the body in the summer heat, which means you'll need to stay attentive to the comfort and sweat accumulation. Don't tighten anything and use breathable gauze whenever you can. Change out the gauze or the entire strap set any time your straps become uncomfortable or damp during the day.
Senior helpers in Tulsa understand the importance of medical device care in the summer. We are here to help you or the senior in your life stay comfortable and healthy handling the heat. Contact us today to consult on your senior home care needs and how we can help.