Selecting the appropriate mattress for a hospital bed is a critical decision that affects patient comfort, recovery, and overall health. The right mattress can prevent pressure ulcers, provide necessary support, and improve sleep quality for individuals with limited mobility.
For healthcare facilities and providers, understanding the different types of mattresses available is fundamental to delivering high-quality patient care. We’re getting into the details about the various mattress options available for hospital beds to help you make an informed choice for your facility.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses are a traditional and cost-effective option for hospital beds. They consist of a system of steel coils that provide a firm support base. A layer of foam or padding on top offers a degree of comfort.
These mattresses are great for durability and strong edge support, which can make it easier for patients to get in and out of bed. The coil structure also allows for good air circulation, which keeps the mattress cool.
Foam Mattresses
Foam mattresses have become a popular choice in healthcare settings due to their excellent pressure-relieving qualities. These mattresses typically feature multiple layers of foam with varying densities. High-density foam provides a supportive base, while softer, more responsive layers conform to the patient’s body.
There are several types of foam used in these mattresses:
- Memory Foam: This material responds to heat and pressure, contouring closely to the body to distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure on bony prominences. This can significantly lower the risk of pressure ulcers.
- Latex Foam: Latex is a resilient and durable material that offers a responsive and supportive feel. It is also naturally hypoallergenic and allows for better airflow than traditional memory foam.
- High-Resilience Foam: This type of foam offers a higher level of support and durability, making it a good choice for bariatric patients or high-use environments.
When choosing the right hospital bed for short-term recovery, a quality foam mattress often provides the necessary balance of comfort and support without the need for more specialized surfaces.
Alternating Pressure Mattresses
For patients who are immobile or at a very high risk of developing pressure ulcers, an alternating pressure mattress is often the best solution. These advanced mattresses feature a series of air cells that inflate and deflate in a programmed cycle. This process continuously shifts the points of pressure on the patient’s body, which improves blood circulation and prevents the breakdown of skin tissue.
Low Air Loss Mattresses
Low air loss mattresses are another type of powered surface designed for patients with existing pressure ulcers or those at high risk. These mattresses are composed of air-filled sacs with microscopic holes that slowly release air. This creates a cushion of air that supports the patient, reducing pressure and friction against the skin.
The continuous airflow can also manage the skin’s microclimate by wicking away moisture and keeping the patient cool and dry. This is particularly beneficial for preventing skin maceration and promoting the healing of existing wounds. Many low air loss mattresses also include an alternating pressure feature, combining the benefits of different mattress technologies into one therapeutic surface.
Choosing the correct hospital bed mattress is a key component of patient care. Be sure to keep your facility supplied with a range of mattress options to best serve your patients.
