The Hidden Risks of Standard Equipment for Complex Conditions

In clinical settings, off the shelf equipment often ticks a compliance box. But when supporting someone with complex needs, that’s rarely good enough. The risks associated with generic or ill-fitting equipment are often hidden at first – until something goes wrong.

A poorly fitted bed or chair can contribute to skin breakdown, falls, postural decline and even hospital admissions. Side rails that are too widely spaced can become entrapment hazards. Chairs with inadequate pressure relief can lead to pain and further deterioration. We’ve seen families spend thousands replacing or modifying standard equipment that simply wasn’t suitable.

At Novacorr, we design our products to reduce these risks. Our Huntington’s chairs are made to manage involuntary movements while offering comfort and calorie conservation. Our bariatric beds are load tested to 450kg, built with reinforced welds and dual actuators. And our paediatric beds feature padded interiors, secure enclosures and soft fabrics that reduce distress and promote rest.

But a product alone isn’t enough. We partner with prescribing therapists to ensure that every piece of equipment has a solid clinical justification. Our team can assist with risk assessments, documentation for NDIS submissions, and long-term support. This makes a real difference when funding decisions are being made or when changes in condition require adjustments.

Generic solutions might be tempting due to lower initial costs, but they can result in much higher clinical and emotional costs later on. We believe that equipment should not just be safe, it should also support quality of life.

Our custom builds ensure proper fit, posture and pressure care from day one. With flexible design features and a consultative process, we eliminate guesswork. And in situations where a person’s health is changing rapidly, that responsiveness can be life changing.

If you’re working with a client who has complex needs, ask: is this equipment truly supporting their goals? If not, it may be time to reconsider. With Novacorr, better is possible.