Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Identifier

1304

Date

2014

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Electrical and Computer Engr

Concentration

Electrical Engineering

Committee Chair

Aaron Robinson

Committee Member

Thomas Wyatt

Committee Member

Mohd Hasan Ali

Abstract

In today's society, decubitus ulcers are a serious and very common medical condition. Yet, they constitute a major complication threatening indiviuals in hospitals, nursing homes and family homecare environments. Decubitus ulcers usually represent a major burden of care and reduces the quality of life considerably for patients, as well as their care givers. Ironically, most patients develop decubitus ulcers after an extended stay in a hopital or acute care facilities. Decubitus ulcers present challenges to the healthcare industry because they are associated with increased risks of baterial infections, longer hospital stays and higher hospitialization costs. The purpose of this thesis is to develop an approach where moisture accumulation can be effectively reduced by incorporating an automated airflow ventilation system within existing pressure relief mattresses. The proposed design will assist in establishing stability of the patient by regulating the patient's body temperature, as well as, moisture level.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to the local University of Memphis Electronic Theses & dissertation (ETD) Repository.

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