In hospitals, mattresses are considered an important factor in guaranteeing comfort and support to patients while in bed. Mattress choice becomes even more crucial for patients suffering from chronic soreness and those with extended time in bed. This explains the purpose of a pressure mattress which is best designed to increase comfort for patients suffering from pressure sores.

The mattress is best designed to offer a high level of support for both the head and the body thus ensuring comfortability. They are carefully designed with air pockets strategically designed to place less pressure on the main pressure points in the body. The three types of Air pressure mattress have been detailed below.

Static/ Foam Mattress

Just as its name sound, the surface of this mattress remains static and relieves pressure by distributing an individual’s weight evenly over a large surface. This particular type of air pressure mattress responds to an individual’s body shape, heat, and movement. It also offers additional pressure relief through the castellation, shaped surfaces, and air pockets within the mattress’s surface. These mattresses are designed more for the prevention of pressure ulcers since they are capable of relieving pressure. However, they are only recommended for Grade 1 and Grade 2 ulcer patients.

Alternating/ Air-Flow Mattress

This mattress work by redistributing pressure through a dynamic lying surface. The lateral air cells used to make the mattress are designed to be constantly alternating. It is also connected to a pump that aids in controlling airflow depending on the patient’s weight and body shape.

The main purpose of the pump is to inflate deflated cells and deflate the inflated cells. This explains why the mattress is best recommended for patients who are unable to move. Works best for patients with Grade 3 and Grade 4 ulcers.

Hybrid/ Combination Mattress

This mattress makes use of a combination of both the static and altering mattress systems. This means it comprises of both a foam soft topper and altering air cells. The combination ensures patients receive optimum pressure relief and a high level of comfort at the same time.

For the functioning of the alternating air cells, this mattress requires a main powered air pump that should be connected to the mattress. Hybrid mattresses are best designed for those at a high risk of developing sores but still have some level of mobility.

Conclusion

Patients who spend long periods of time in bed are always at a high risk of developing pressure ulcers and bedsores. The development of these conditions can be extremely painful and also put the patient at risk of infections. This is why the significance of air pressure mattresses is noteworthy. They offer relief to patients by alleviating the pressure on high-risk areas of the body.