Guide In Choosing The Best Alternating Pressure Mattress
Quality alternating pressure mattress is the best way to prevent bedsores and other serious medical complications. This helps to equally distribute body weight thus, promoting proper circulation. Today, there are a lot of alternating pressure mattresses on the market, choosing the best alternating pressure mattress is a daunting task. The most viable thing to consider is the needs of the patient and the advice of your care provider.
So, what are the things to consider when choosing the best alternating pressure mattress?
MATERIAL
Generally, there are two types of material considerations. First, there’s what you call gel-infused open-cell memory foam and the other one, the latex-free vinyl.
Gel-Infused Open-cell Memory Foam
The material used in this memory foam promotes airflow and the heat dissipates easier. Another thing to take note of is that this kind of memory foam is latex-free, soft and spring thus, it makes one’s night rest more comfortable and allergy-free.
Latex-free Vinyl
photo courtesy by https://www.universityproducts.com/latex-free-hydrophilic-sponges.html
This type of material is very durable and resistant to punctures and moisture. It is flexible and soft when inflated. Latex-free vinyl is also perfect for a comfortable night rest.
Patient’s Weight Capacity
One important factor to consider is the body weight of the person who will be using the alternating pressure mattress. Ensure that the mattress you choose can accommodate the patient and provides enough weight distribution. For example, for the maximum weight capacity, an 8” alternating pressure mattress can take in 400lbs.
Types of mattresses and pads
Alternating Pressure Pad
The main purpose of alternating pressure pad is to promote circulation and avoid bedsores for patients. It is designed to provide fluctuation pressure points and air cells that would constantly deflate and inflate. Such a mattress can be laid on top of an already existing mattress and is compatible with any type of bed.
Low Air Loss Mattress
A low air loss mattress can float the patient on air-filled cells It is important for patients who are prone to pressure sores. It usually pumps between 100 and 150 liters of air per minute which then helps regulate skin temperature and maintain moisture levels.
Non-powered Pressure Reduction Mattress
Non-powered pressure reduction mattress channels air through cells for maximum patient comfortability. It utilizes air, fluid, foam, and gel and sometimes a combination of these components. This type of mattress can be placed on top of an existing mattress and serve as mild protection from pressure sores.
Mattress Cover
The mattress cover is one important thing to consider. It gives off various benefits such as low-shear, low-friction cover deals with shearing and friction. While a multi-stretch feature improves comfort.
Pumping Features
When choosing the best alternative pressure mattress, you should look for a pump that allows you to adjust the firmness at the turn of a dial. Make sure that is easy to place on your night table and performs quietly. It’s the features that separate a high-quality pump from a low-quality pump. Choose a mattress with a pump that offers at least of some these functions: alternation mode, static mode, adjustable comfortable settings, and high liter airflow.
Patient Profile
There are various patient factors that must be considered thus when choosing the best alternating pressure mattress, it should be according to the patient’s mobility and their risk of developing bedsores. Make sure that you consult your care provider before buying your pressure mattress or pad.
Here are some recommendations:
Alternating Pressure Mattress
The Astrata Alternating Pressure Mattress help yourself relax and give yourself the best possible chance at a good night’s sleep. It's portable, comfortable, alleviate some of your pain and better your changes at a good night’s sleep! If you are at risk if developing bed sores, ulcers or experience regular back pain, it’s worth it to invest in a device that may improve your life.
1. Low-risk patients and limited movability
Alternating pressure pad overlay is designed to be placed on top of the existing mattress and it gives pressure relief to patients.
2. Low-Risk patients
Adding a memory foam mattress topped on top of the existing mattress can evenly distribute the weight preventing bedsores. Patients that are considered as low-risk for sores and are mobile can benefit from this type of mattress.
3. Moderate risk patients
When the patient is moderately at risk of bedsores, it’s recommended that you find a pressure pad that has adjustable firmness, alternating air cells, low air loss, and water-resistant cover.
4. High-Risk Patients
Patients that have no mobility and have bedsores can use mattresses that have thick design and made to fit in hospital bed frames. It’s also suggested having an alternating pressure mattress that has air cells that can be adjusted.
5. For temporary use
If you’re recovering from surgery, sick or in need of relief from aches and pain, the best answer is to find easy to install mattress topper. It should have adjustable firmness and alternating pressure-relief.
References:
Vanderwee, Katrien & Grypdonck, Maria & Defloor, Tom. (2005). Effectiveness of an alternating pressure air matress for the prevention of pressure ulcers. Age and ageing. 34. 261-7. 10.1093/ageing/afi057.
Vive Health. (n.d.). Choosing the Best Alternating Pressure Mattress. Retrieved February 11, 2020, from https://www.vivehealth.com/blogs/resources/best-alternating-pressure-mattress
Katrien Vanderwee, Maria H. F. Grypdonck, Tom Defloor, Effectiveness of an alternating pressure air mattress for the prevention of pressure ulcers, Age and Ageing, Volume 34, Issue 3, May 2005, Pages 261–267, https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afi057