This number includes millions of people who are clinically obese, defined as having a body mass index of 30 or more. According to the author, one way to minimize the potential for skin breakdown in obese patients is to use properly sized equipment, including oversized bed frames, wheelchairs, and pressure reduction surfaces. Whenever possible, patients should be offered the use of an oversized commode, not a bedpan. The article includes a list of suppliers of oversized equipment. Sign up for this company's free service.
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Accessed June 1999.