Good pressure care is about more than just reducing pressure. It’s about keeping the skin healthy, maintaining comfort, and helping clients take part in everyday activities. The Elata Air Cushion system gives clinicians a flexible way to manage seated pressure care. It is now available with both the Configura Comfort and Configura Advance chairs.
Alternating and Static Pressure Modes
The Elata Air Cushion combines an alternating air cushion with a rechargeable pump. It works in two modes, Static and Alternating, so therapists can match the cushion to the client’s needs:
- Static Mode keeps the same air pressure in all the cells. This creates a stable surface, ideal for transfers, assessments, or activities where trunk control is important.
- Alternating Mode inflates and deflates the air cells in a cycle. This changes where pressure is applied, helping improve blood flow and reducing the risk of pressure injury.
Alternating air cushions are a good option for clients who:
- Don’t move or shift their weight often,
- Are at high risk of developing a pressure injury, or
- Have an existing pressure injury that needs better blood flow for healing (reactive hyperaemia).
By regularly changing the pressure points, the Elata helps keep skin and tissue healthy, while improving comfort and sitting tolerance.
What’s New: Clinical Benefits of the Updated Elata Pump
The new Elata Air Cushion pump includes several updates that improve safety, flexibility, and ease of use.
| Feature | Previous Model | New Elata Air Cushion Pump | Clinical Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | Different pumps for Comfort and Advance chairs | One pump now fits both Configura Comfort and Advance chairs | Easier setup and training; consistent use across settings. |
| Pressure Setting Control | Manual dial | Digital buttons (1–5) | Simple, repeatable settings based on user weight and comfort. |
| Mode Options | Alternating mode only | Static and alternating modes | Gives choice between stable support or dynamic pressure relief. |
| Cycle Length | Fixed | Adjustable 10, 15, or 20-minute cycles | Customisable for client comfort and risk level. |
| Lock-Out Feature | Not available | Lock-out button | Prevents unwanted setting changes. |
| Battery Backup | Plug-in only | Rechargeable battery | Keeps pressure care running during power loss or transport. |
| Low Pressure Alarm | Basic light | Audible and visual alerts | Warns carers early of pressure loss to prevent skin breakdown. |
Compatibility Across the Configura Range
This new pump works with both the Configura Comfort and Configura Advance chairs.
Previously, only the Advance model had these advanced features. Now, clinicians can use the same pump for both, making setup simpler.
It’s also backward compatible:
- The new pump works with older Air Cushion cells, and
- The new cushion cells work with older pumps.
This means existing equipment can be upgraded gradually without full replacement, saving time and cost while maintaining continuity of care.
Check out the products on Enable Lifecare's website:
Cushion Placement and Orientation
When fitting the Elata Air Cushion, it’s important to position the cushion correctly. For best results, place it so the air alternates from back to front rather than side to side.
This helps to:
- Reduce side-to-side movement that can cause dizziness,
- Maintain pelvic stability and posture, and
- Improve pressure relief under the thighs and buttocks.
The cushion insert includes cut-outs on both the left and right sides so the tubing can exit from either side. This allows flexibility based on client preference or room setup.
Clinical Implications
These updates do more than make the system easier to use, they improve clinical outcomes:
- Consistent alternating patterns support healthy blood flow and tissue repair.
- Adjustable settings allow for personalised care and comfort.
- Battery backup and alarms ensure continuous therapy in any setting.
- Lock-out controls reduce the risk of user error.
The Elata Air Cushion offers a reliable and adaptable approach to seated pressure care, supporting clinicians to provide effective, evidence-based solutions that protect skin integrity and enhance comfort.
