The Alerta GelCube Cushion is a patented dual honeycomb air-gel seat cushion for pressure redistribution and blood circulation support during prolonged sitting. Unlike static foam cushions, the GelCube's flexible air-gel cells respond to the patient's movement and weight distribution, adapting the pressure profile dynamically rather than maintaining a fixed load-dependent contact surface. Dimensions: 46x42x5cm. Safe working load: 200kg. Non-slip silicone-coated base for chair stability. Highly breathable construction for heat and moisture management. Waterproof, fire-retardant, machine washable polyester cover.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Code | NCL-ALT-204 |
| Type | Patented dual honeycomb air-gel seat cushion |
| Dimensions | 46 x 42 x 5 cm (18 x 17 x 2 inches) |
| Max SWL | 200kg |
| Cell Construction | Flexible air-gel dual honeycomb |
| Base | Non-slip silicone-coated |
| Cover | Waterproof, fire-retardant polyester |
| Cover Cleaning | Machine washable |
| Application | Prolonged sitting - care homes, hospitals, home care |
NICE Guideline CG179 (Pressure Ulcers: Prevention and Management) supports the use of pressure redistribution seat cushions for patients at risk of seated pressure injury, and recognises that different cushion technologies achieve pressure redistribution through different mechanisms with different clinical advantages for specific patient presentations. The GelCube's air-gel dual honeycomb construction provides pressure redistribution and circulation support through a mechanism distinct from foam-based cushions: the flexible gel cells respond to patient movement, providing a dynamic pressure profile that changes with the patient's activity rather than the static load-dependent contact surface of memory foam or castellated foam. CQC Regulation 10 (Dignity and Respect) is relevant to cushion selection: patients who are ambulatory or semi-mobile and prefer a cushion that accommodates their movement patterns without the perceived clinical appearance of foam pressure care equipment may find the GelCube's construction more compatible with their lifestyle and self-image. CQC Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment) is served by the 200kg safe working load, making the GelCube appropriate for a wider weight range than some foam cushions of equivalent dimensions.
Is the GelCube classified as a pressure redistribution device under NICE CG179, and what clinical risk level is it specified for?
The GelCube Cushion provides pressure redistribution and circulation support for patients at risk of pressure injury during prolonged sitting, consistent with the NICE CG179 framework for pressure redistribution seating equipment. The specific Waterlow risk category for which the GelCube is clinically indicated should be confirmed with the prescribing clinician or occupational therapist based on the cushion's interface pressure performance data. Unlike the Sensaflex foam range which has explicit risk category designations (200 for medium, 250 for high, 300 for very high), the GelCube's dynamic air-gel mechanism may be appropriate across a range of risk levels depending on the individual patient's clinical profile, body weight and sitting pattern. Clinical pressure mapping assessment can provide objective interface pressure data to confirm whether the GelCube achieves sufficient redistribution for a specific patient's risk category.
Can the GelCube Cushion be used on a wheelchair, and is the 46x42cm size compatible with standard wheelchair seats?
The GelCube at 46x42cm is compatible with a range of wheelchair seat dimensions. Standard adult wheelchair seat widths typically range from 40cm to 50cm, and the GelCube's 42cm width fits comfortably within most standard adult wheelchair seat widths. The 46cm depth is appropriate for most adult chair and wheelchair seat depths. Before use on a wheelchair, confirm that the GelCube dimensions fit the specific wheelchair's seat pan without overhanging the seat edges in a way that could compromise the wheelchair's lateral support functions or interfere with armrests, and that the 5cm height does not raise the patient's seated position to a point that affects footrest height or transfer safety. The non-slip silicone base maintains the cushion position on the wheelchair seat surface during normal use and transfer activity.
Part of our specialist Pressure Care Systems range. Pressure relief cushions provide targeted support for wheelchair users and care home residents at risk of pressure damage.