Linens made of 100% cotton are recommended for use in hyperbaric chambers. Flat sheets, pillowcases and patient gowns are standard needs for any hyperbaric unit. It is important to purchase these 100% cotton items in quantities sufficient to meet the needs of a busy week as the laundering process may take several days for these itms to be returned to the unit.
100% Cotton gowns are manufactured in a variety of sizes to fit patient needs. Hyperbaric linen is for hyperbaric use only and should be stamped as such i.e., "HYPERBARIC USE ONLY"
Pockets should be sewn shut and hems should contain 100% cotton thread
The number-one cause of getting an excess of static electricity charges in your body is rubbing certain materials against your skin. This is especially true if you have dry skin. Synthetic materials such as polyester clothes are the major culprits. Some clothing materials, such as polyester materials, cause more static electricity than others when they rub against your skin. 100% Cotton linens reduce the buildup of static electric charges in the hyperbaric chamber.
A fire is likely to occur when three factors are brought together: Oxygen, Fuel and Ignition. In the hyperbaric oxygen environment (particularly the monoplace chamber) elevated oxygen concentrations necessary to treat patients cannot be manipulated in order to reduce risk. Therefore, reducing the amount of available fuel (commonly by limiting linens in use) and eliminating potential ignition sources are critical safety measures.
Never permit, silk, wool, or synthetic textile materials (except those specifically approved for hyperbaric oxygen use) inside the chamber as they are capable of creating static electricity.
Per the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)14.3.1.5.4.2 Garments fabricated of 100 percent cotton or a blend of cotton and polyester fabric shall be permitted in Class A chambers equipped with fire protection as specified in 14.2.5 and in Class B chambers.
Medical linen can be purchased from medical supply stores. Please refer to table "Other Stores" below for pricing and suggestions on where to purchase this product "out-of-pocket" (without insurance). If there are no vendors listed and you would like to have information on suppliers, please email info@woundreference.com.
