MOTION RESTRICTION
Keeping your head and neck as still as possible is an important part of the healing process. The Aspen® Collar is built to help in this process. Keep your collar on and properly tightened at all times. Remove it only to wash your face and neck unless you have been given other orders from your doctor or nurse. Remove your collar only with the help of another person.

PROPER SKIN CARE
Pressure, moisture, heat, and dirt can all lead to skin redness and sores. To avoid this, keep your skin clean, dry, and cool. At least once a day, remove the collar and wash your neck and face. At this time, moist or dirty pads should be changed. Check with your doctor or nurse on how to keep your head and neck still while the collar is off. If you notice any skin redness or sores, call your doctor or nurse.

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INSTRUCTIONS FOR REMOVAL, SKIN CARE, AND RE-APPLICATION

Please also see the expanded pad care instructions.
NOTE: This should only be done with the help of a second person.

1. Before taking off your collar, gather the supplies you will need: soap, wash cloth, towel, and pads.

2. Note where the Velcro straps end on the front of the collar. This will help when you apply and tighten the collar during step nine.

3. Stand or sit in front of a sink with a mirror. Release the Velcro on one side. Remove the collar and set it aside.

4. Keep your head and neck straight and still. Use a wash cloth to clean your face and neck.

5. Rinse away soap and gently dry your skin.

6. Remove moist and/or dirty pads. If needed, clean and towel dry the plastic and Velcro. Attach the clean pads (see next step).

7. Place the front of the collar so your chin comes to the front edge of the chin piece.

8. Place the back panel behind your neck. Be sure the Support Strap is at the top.

9. Connect the Velcro on both sides and tighten.

10. Tighten the Support Strap until it is comfortable (see Occipital Support Strap).

To purchase replacement pads, call:
Aspen Medical Products
(800) 295-2776 (949) 681-0200

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PAD REPLACEMENT
Please also see the Expanded Pad Care Instructions

	Adjust the pads so the gray side grips the Velcro dots. The pads must cover all edges of the plastic. If not, move the pad to keep the plastic from touching the skin.
	To change the back pad, push the Velcro straps through the slits in the pad, and then through the slots in the outer edge of the plastic.

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PAD CLEANING
Please also see the Expanded Pad Care Instructions

Hand wash the pads with soap and water. Rinse out all soap. Gently squeeze out excess water. Allow to air dry (about 8 hours).

Do not place pads in a washer or dryer.

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OCCIPITAL SUPPORT STRAP™
	To tighten the Support Strap, squeeze the back panel with one hand. Loosen the strap from one side and pull until tight. Connect the strap to the Velcro patch.

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PROPER FIT
	When the collar has been properly applied, your chin should come to the front edge of the chin piece.

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AT-HOME INSTRUCTIONS
Keep your collar properly tightened.
Remove it only with the help of a second person.
Remove it only to wash your face and neck.
Do not drive or operate equipment.
Avoid strenuous activities.

Be sure to follow all instructions you have been given by your doctor or nurse. This information is offered as a guideline only, and is not a medical recommendation.

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