Press Release

Patient Comfort Systems introduces new antimicrobial pads and positioners

Patient Comfort Systems, Inc. announces the introduction of a new infection-resistant design with permanent antimicrobial agents for its medical imaging table pads and positioners. This new product line was created in part to address the growing threat of infections spread by contact, which includes aggressive antibiotic-resistant bacteria, or “super bugs,” such as MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). Studies have shown that these dangerous infections result in death five times more
frequently than other bacterial infections. The occurrence of “community acquired” MRSA, in particular, is increasing rapidly and has been shown by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to be capable of spreading to otherwise healthy people simply through contact with contaminated pads.

To maximize infection control further, Patient Comfort Systems pads incorporate ultra-strong fabric along with sewn and welded seams to protect core material from bodily fluids. This construction also prevents cracking and tearing at the pad corners, where exposure is greatest. Both the pad cores and cover fabrics are manufactured using a permanent antimicrobial agent to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. The vapor and moisture-impervious cover allow fluids to pass through it and can be cleaned with any standard approved hospital disinfectant.

Estimates are that typically a single MRI machine scans 3,000 to 5,000 patients each year, while a CT scans even more. According to Peter Rothschild, M.D., a practicing Radiologist and President of Patient Comfort Systems, the original pads supplied with the imaging equipment were not designed to withstand this wear-and-tear. Over the years, patient flow on and off the table takes a toll on pads and positioners, causing fraying and tearing and often exposing the underlying foam material. This makes thorough cleaning impossible, presenting a sanitary risk to patients and technologists.

This issue is thoroughly addressed in the Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines concerning environmental infection, which states that any frayed or torn pads can be a source of contamination and should be removed.

Dr. Rothschild explains, “the cleanliness of the hospital radiology departments and outpatient imaging centers is crucial in reducing the spread of these ‘super bugs’. This takes diligence especially in MRI suites, which have a very unique set of challenges. Due to the MRI’s high magnetic field, which is active all the time, most centers and hospitals do not allow cleaning crews to enter the rooms and they are rarely, if ever, cleaned. MRI technologists, rarely have the time to clean the room’s 20 or more assorted pads and positioners. I am personally concerned about this lack of adequate sanitation. The CDC has made it clear that the current practice of simply putting a sheet over possibly soiled and contaminated pads is not acceptable.”

Patient Comfort Systems, Inc. was founded by Peter Rothschild, M.D., to provide specific solutions to a wide range of challenges that hospitals and outpatient imaging centers encounter on a daily basis in today’s challenging imaging environment.

For more information, visit www.patientcomfortsystems.com or call 866-943-7727.