Up-Lifting Offer
Bison Bede, Consett, United Kingdom, offers the Classic Compact straight stairlift and Contour Elite curved stairlift. The Contour Elite is built with a modular rail design to provide quick delivery and easy installation. The Classic Compact is a slim stairlift with a weight capacity of up to 392 pounds and a range of options for various customer needs. +44 1207 585000; www.bisonbede.co.uk.

Breathe Easy
VIASYS Healthcare Inc’s Critical Care Division, Conshohocken, Pa, introduces the Vela™ mid-range ventilator developed for use in intensive care and subacute settings. Its compact size and integrated turbine support the patient throughout care. Vela offers touchscreen control with a Graphical User Interface that allows access to patient data. Breath is depicted as a waveform or loop for in-depth analysis. (800) 520-4368; www.viasyshealthcare.com.

Programmable Controller
The Pilot+ controller is now standard on all power wheelchairs from Permobil Inc, Lebanon, Tenn. Pilot+ is programmable for speed, acceleration, and braking. Versatility is enhanced by variable front-wheel drive control, three-stage speed reduction, steer correction, and a short throw joystick option. (800) 736-0925; www.permobilusa.com.

Quick Pressure Measure
LifeSource™ UA-787 blood pressure monitor is now available from A&D Medical, Milpitas, Calif. Providing blood pressure and pulse rate measurements even when an irregular heartbeat occurs, this quick-response monitor cuts measurement time to 25 seconds. The monitor’s EasyCuff™ inflates almost silently and is a semihard shell that conforms to the upper arm. Additional features include larger digital display, 30-reading automatic memory, and one-button operation. (888) 726-9966; www.andmedical.com.

Like Real Tissue
Whitmyer Biomechanix Inc, Tallahassee, Fla, offers scientifically crossed-linked liquids that create a semisolid polymer-filled pad to emulate the feel and movement of fatty body tissue. The material moves with the user while providing support and reducing the risk of ulcers caused by shear and friction. The latex-free, nontoxic, and antimicrobial pads are available in various sizes with lycra, fleece, or vinyl covers. (877) 944-8246; www.whitbio.com.

Small but Powerful
Puritan Bennett, part of Tyco Healthcare, Pleasanton, Calif, introduces the Knightstar® 330® ventilator, which provides blower-based bilevel ventilation to treat patients suffering from respiratory insufficiency or obstructive sleep apnea. Weighing less than 3 pounds, the compact unit can be used in CPAP, I/E PAP, or assist/control modes. Features include a pressure range of 3 to 30 cm H20, adjustable settings for inspiratory and expiratory sensitivity and rise time, and built-in audible and visual alarms. (800) 635-5267; www.mkg.com.