Mattress System Research Articles

Russka pressure-relieving low air-loss mattress system.

Pressure ulcers are distressing, frequently occur in immobile and malnourished patients and the cost to patients in terms of pain and anguish must be a prime consideration. There is little information on the incidence and prevalence of pressure ulcer development within the independent sector, as this is difficult to obtain. However, with advances in treatment and technology, combined with more people with complex and multiple needs being cared for at home, the requirement for specialist pressure-relieving support surfaces in the community is increasing. This article reviews the need for clinical and cost-effective pressure-relieving surface solutions in the community and introduces the concept of the Russka pressure-relieving low air-loss system.

Cost-Effective Strategy for Managing Pressure Ulcers in Critical Care: A Prospective, Non-randomised, Cohort Study

A prospective, clinical outcome study was undertaken in a critical care environment to provide evidence of the effectiveness of a unique pressure-relieving (PR) alternating mattress system in both the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers in an extremely vulnerable population.In total, 160 critical care patients were recruited across five facilities within the United Kingdom. Despite the severity of the patients' condition (mean stay 8 days, mortality rate 24.7%) the incidence of new tissue damage was low (n=6, 3.75%), predominantly superficial and occurring near to death, while 80% (n=16/20) of pre-existing superficial ulcers healed. The study highlights the complexity of assessing differing levels of risk in this vulnerable population, where 87.5% of patients were ventilated and 93.1% were totally immobile. No correlation was found between the occurrence of pressure damage and Waterlow score, serum albumin, hypotension and the use of inotropic agents.Cost-effective patient management includes the allocation of effective resources to those patients who will benefit most. However, if complex risk assessment precludes the accurate assignment of resources, an alternative approach may be to provide a minimum, yet effective, standard of care to all patients. This strategy also avoids recourse to more costly interventions especially where there is little evidence of improved patient outcome.

Feasibility study of a novel approach to sore prevention in patients with spinal cord lesions: the computerized dynamic control Matrix 200 system.

To evaluate the feasibility of a computerized mattress system based on a novel concept in sore prevention: continuous monitoring and adjustment of the interface pressure in small segments of contact between the skin and the supporting surface. A preliminary observational study. The Spinal Department, Loewenstein Rehabilitation Hospital, Raanana, Israel. Twelve patients with spinal cord lesions. Patients were examined for signs of impending sores after lying on the mattress for up to 4 successive hours. The pressure within each of the mattress's air cells was continuously measured and adjusted. No evidence of redness or excessive perspiration was found in any of the areas considered to be high risk for bed sores. Maximal interface pressure was 22-30 mm Hg in most of the examinations. Most of the patients felt comfortable on the mattress and the staff adapted easily to its operation. The system is apparently safe, and at least as efficient as other existing means for preventing sores. In addition, it may allow for increased intervals between bed positionings. We conclude that this approach of pressure control has the potential to improve bed sore prevention in a rehabilitation hospital setting.

Feasibility study of a novel approach to sore prevention in patients with spinal cord lesions: the computerized dynamic control Matrix 200 system

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility of a computerized mattress system based on a novel concept in sore prevention: continuous monitoring and adjustment of the interface pressure in small segments of contact between the skin and the supporting surface. Design: A preliminary observational study. Setting: The Spinal Department, Loewenstein Rehabilitation Hospital, Raanana, Israel. Subjects: Twelve patients with spinal cord lesions. Interventions: Patients were examined for signs of impending sores after lying on the mattress for up to 4 successive hours. The pressure within each of the mattress's air cells was continuously measured and adjusted. Results: No evidence of redness or excessive perspiration was found in any of the areas considered to be high risk for bed sores. Maximal interface pressure was 22-30 mmHg in most of the examinations. Most of the patients felt comfortable on the mattress and the staff adapted easily to its operation. Conclusions: The system is apparently safe, and at least as efficient as other existing means for preventing sores. In addition, it may allow for increased intervals between bed positionings. We conclude that this approach of pressure control has the potential to improve bed sore prevention in a rehabilitation hospital setting.

Optimal Pressure Relief and Cost-Savings Offered by Akros DFDTM Mattress System by Lumex

Optimal Pressure Relief and Cost-Savings Offered by Akros DFDTM Mattress System by Lumex

'VAPERM' PATIENT-SUPPORT SYSTEM: A NEW GENERAL PURPOSE HOSPITAL MATTRESS

Most mattresses used in British hospitals have certain disadvantages in relation to patient comfort, pressure-sore liability, ward hygiene, and flammability. An improved waterproof but water-vapour-permeable flame-retardant mattress system ('Vaperm') has been developed. Extensive laboratory studies and clinical trials indicate that, with normal nursing care, the disadvantages of the standard mattress are largely overcome.

New mattress system is fire resistant

New mattress system is fire resistant