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Questions Answered for Alternating Pressure Medical Air Mattress and Low Air Loss Mattress
If you are in a hospital or need to stay in bed in the comfort of your home for any amount of time, a low air loss mattress might be a good choice. As well as helping you maintain a comfortable position, a low air loss mattress can also relieve pressure on vital areas of your body. Low air loss and alternating pressure mattresses are the two most popular types of medical air mattresses recom
mended for individuals who are at risk of bed sores.
What Are Low Air Loss Mattresses?
Low air loss mattresses are designed to distribute the patient’s body weight over a broad surface area and help prevent skin breakdown.Air continually flows through tiny laser-made air holes in the top of the mattress surface so that the user floats on a soft cushion of air.True air loss mattresses feature greater airflow to maintain optimal skin temperature and moisture levels.
How Does an Alternating Air Mattress Work?
Alternating pressure air mattresses provide additional protection with rows of air cells that gently switch between inflation and deflation.The pressure changes cycle every 10-25 minutes and are not noticeable to the user.This shifts the person’s weight to prevent constant pressure on fragile skin areas and also promotes blood flow to tissues.Close up view of air cells of HomeCare Air 6000 Low Air Loss & Alternating Pressure Mattress
Who Can Benefit from Alternating Air Mattresses?
Individuals who spend long periods of time in bed can develop bed sores from prolonged pressure on skin areas.These wounds can develop anywhere on the body but are most common on the heels, spine and hips. The alternating pressure usespressure redistributionto stimulate blood circulation and pressure relief to anyone sleeping on it.These air mattresses provide constant relief to the person sleeping on one while reducing the need for the need for manual repositioning by a loved one.
What Is the Difference Between Low Air Loss and Alternating Pressure Mattress?
A low air loss mattress is essentially an air mattress covered with tiny holes. These holes are designed to let out air very slowly which helps keep the skin dry and wicks away any moisture.Alternating pressure mattresses alternates inflation and deflation of air cells that constantly moves pressure from different parts of the body.
Can You Put a Sheet on a Low Air Loss Mattress?
Fitted sheets should not be used over low air loss mattresses because they compress the air cells and restrict air flow. Thin knit or jersey material flat sheets should be used instead.Low air loss mattress covers are specially designed to allow air flow to pass through and prevent moisture buildup.This creates a microclimate between the skin and mattress to keep the user comfortable and prevent skin breakdown.Quilted reusable padsand incontinence briefs will block airflow and trap moisture against the skin. Disposable air-permeable incontinence pads designed for use with low air loss mattresses should be used instead.