Anti-decubitus mattresses

The occurrence of pressure sores in immobilized patients is a serious problem that complicates the treatment of the underlying disease and, if the necessary measures are not taken in time, can result in serious complications.

The main reason for the occurrence of this lesion is prolonged pressure on certain parts of the body of a person lying motionless (as a rule, these are places above the bone protrusions - scapula, sacrum, heels, buttocks, etc.), as a result of which the blood supply and nutrition and soft tissue, which can lead to their necrosis. Arising wounds will bring additional suffering to an already exhausted patient, and their healing is not an easy process.

The use of an anti-decubitus mattress will protect a loved one from their formation, and if the bedsores have already appeared, will accelerate healing. In addition, such a system greatly facilitates the care of a patient who has lost mobility.

This article will help you determine the choice and tell you what moments you should pay attention to when buying and using this product.

Depending on the principle of operation, mattresses against bedsores are divided into two main types:

• Autonomous (without compressor), or static. Their work does not require an external power source, and natural or artificial materials are used as fillers. Due to the characteristics of the filler, which will be discussed later, these mattresses have orthopedic as well as anti-decubitus effect.
• Volatile, or dynamic. These mattresses are equipped with a compressor, so all together it is often referred to as an anti-decubitus system. For the operation of such a system requires an external power source. The compressor alternately delivers and blows air into special air chambers, so the surface of the mattress is in constant motion.The pressure on different parts of the human body either increases or decreases, so normal blood circulation and tone are maintained in soft tissues.

According to the type of air chambers, a dynamic mattress can be balloon (or tubular) and cellular - the surface of such a product looks like a honeycomb. Many dynamic models are available with perforated surface: through the holes there is a constant air circulation.

It should be noted that such systems have a wide range of loads (minimum - from 5 kg), which allows them to be used, including for patients with children.

In the work of autonomous mattresses such qualities of their fillers as viscosity, elasticity and fluidity are used, as well as features of the structure of their surface (it may have many cells or porous segments operating independently of each other).Thanks to all these qualities, the surface of the product adapts to the shape of the body of the person lying on it, repeating all its anatomical features.

Load evenly distributed throughout the body, decreasing in problem areas and restoring normal blood and lymph flow. Thus, the risk of the formation of pressure sores is reduced to a minimum.

In dynamic mattresses, the compressor alternately fills the chambers with air, due to which in different areas of the mattress there is a constant change of pressure and a continuous massage effect of the tissues, improved blood circulation and tissue nourishment. This prevents the occurrence of bedsores and accelerates the healing of wounds that are already formed.

For the manufacture of high-quality mattresses are used, as a rule, polyurethane filler (PPU) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). High-quality polyurethane foam with a high degree of viscosity and elasticity is used for the production of stand-alone anti-decubitus mattresses. It is a modern synthetic material that does not cause allergies, is resistant to the action of fungi and microorganisms, well passes air and does not absorb moisture.

It does not heat up from the human body and keeps cool, and this is a significant plus in the case of increased sweating in the patient (one of the risk factors for the formation of pressure sores).

A plus vinyl oilcloth (PVC) is the strength and the fact that this material is easy to clean. The possibility of self-repair is also important (usually a repair kit is attached). Rubberized fabric is often used. (PVC + nylon), it is more warm and comfortable for patients material than oilcloth.

Anti-decubitus mattresses come in standard sizes (for example, 80–90 cm wide and 190–200 cm long), children's (60–70 cm wide and 140 cm long) and for obese people (bariatric). Before purchasing this product you need to measure the length and width of the bed on which it will be placed. If the mattress is too large, it will interfere with its work and significantly reduce the therapeutic effect.In the case when the product will be much smaller than a bed, the patient may experience considerable inconvenience, which will not be slow to affect his well-being.

If the mattress is chosen correctly, then its use has many positive aspects, because the invention of this product is a real gift for immobilized people, as well as for those who care for them. Apart from the fact that the threat of the formation of pressure sores disappears and the muscles that have already appeared will heal faster, pains in the muscles disappear, because the blood flow is no longer disturbed, and the tissues get nourishment and oxygen without obstacles.

The materials used for the production of these products easy to clean and sanitize, which greatly facilitates the care of patients who are unable to control the processes of urination and defecation.

A significant minus of anti-decubitus mattresses is that there are contraindications for certain categories of patients. Prohibited use these mattresses in cases when the spine is injured, especially if bone marrow is affected, as well as skeletal cervical extracts. Very fat people with a body weight exceeding the maximum load on the product, it can not be used.

It is possible to acquire an anti-decubitus mattress only after consulting with your doctor. It is he who will assess the general condition of the patient and his skin, the absence of contraindications and will recommend exactly what type of mattress will suit him.

There are general rules that can help when choosing such products:

• Static (autonomous) mattresses with a filling of viscoelastic polyurethane foam and some other fillers are intended for people who are prescribed a long bed rest, but at the same time they have full or partial mobility. Such products will protect patients from the appearance of pressure sores and will have a good orthopedic effect.

• Cellular dynamic systems are suitable for the prevention and treatment of first or second degree bedsores in people weighing up to 120 kg, completely immobilized or retaining some mobility (for example, they can change their positions themselves).

• Balloon (tubular) mattresses provide prevention and treatment of pressure sores up to the fourth degree. They are used for completely immobilized patients, including for people weighing from 120 to 160 kg.

When buying, you should also consider some of the nuances: for example, if you need a dynamic anti-decubitus system, ask what is the indicator of the noise level of the compressor. The figure of 10-15 decibels indicates a high quality system. Given the duration of continuous operation, too noisy compressor can interfere with the patient.

Very good, if the system has a function of static pressure. By switching the system to such a function, it is possible for some time to ensure the immobility of the surface of the mattress, which is necessary, for example, when performing any procedures. Depending on the indications, it is worthwhile for people with excessive sweating to purchase either PU foam mattresses or dynamic blowing systems.

Static models, as a rule, are laid on the bed base and are used on their own instead of a regular mattress. Before you start using the system from bedsores, you need to study the instructions for use in detail and save the algorithm of actions recommended by the manufacturer.

Dynamic models are laid out on top of the mattress airbags upwards, positioning them so that the duct hoses are located at the foot of the bed. The free edges are tucked under a regular mattress. Then attach the compressor, attaching it to the headboard or setting nearby. It is important that the compressor is not located near sources of heat or moisture, and also does not interfere with movement, so that no one can accidentally touch it. Anti-decubitus mattress is covered with bed linen.

It is necessary to check that the duct hoses are not pinched and are not under the mattress. Before placing the patient, it is necessary to ensure that the anti-decubitus system works correctly and that all air chambers are alternately filled and deflated.

A very important point, determining the effectiveness of the system from the bedsores is correct selection of the required pressure in the chambers. This is directly related to the weight of the person: the greater the weight lying, the more pressure is required to create in the cells. The mattress should have the necessary elasticity to provide the necessary support and at the same time softness, so that the problem areas of the body do not squeeze and gently sink into it.

Check whether sufficient pressure in the system is possible by passing a few fingers between the bed and one of the sections of the mattress in the area of ​​the greatest pressure of the patient’s body to the surface (approximately in the buttocks area). If you need to make an effort or the fingers do not pass at all, the pressure in the system is insufficient and it needs to be increased. Too free access, on the contrary, indicates that the pressure is too high and you want to reduce it.

Bleed air before storing or transporting a product.To do this, it must be disconnected from the compressor, after which the air freely comes out of the chambers. The mattress prepared in this way is turned upside down with air sections and neatly rolled into a roll in the direction from the point of entry of the air ducts to the headboard. The disconnected compressor must be turned on again and make sure that it is working properly (air is alternately exhausted from the air ducts), then turn it off and remove the tubes. They are placed in a package so that they do not bend over. Keep the mattress in a clean, dry and cool place away from sunlight.

The medical equipment market offers a wide range of anti-decubitus mattresses and systems from various manufacturers. Known for its products not only in Russia, but also abroad, the company "Armed" It offers cellular and tubular dynamic systems characterized by quality, reliability, ease of use and affordability. These criteria, as well as a large selection of models characterized brand Orthoforma (Taiwan). Other foreign companies occupying this market segment are represented by Germany (German brands ADL, Bronigen), Italy (OSD, Gi-emme), Belgium (Eurocare), Holland and USA (Roho).

We characterize some of the most popular models.

Designed to prevent pressure sores in patients with partial or complete loss of mobility during the recovery postoperative period. Features:

• The airbags of the mattress are made in the form of honeycombs, into which air is alternately supplied with the help of a silent compressor.
• The function of pressure control allows you to create optimal conditions for the patient, depending on his weight.
• Made of lightweight and durable PVC, maximum load - 120 kg.
• The cycle lasts 12 minutes.
• The system is convenient and easy to manage, the compressor does not take up much space.

Features:

• Cells of this mattress are filled with air in a checkerboard pattern every 8 minutes.
• Thanks to continuous massage, the load on the patient’s body is evenly distributed, and laser perforation due to the flow of air reduces sweating and dries the skin, so damage to it heals much faster.

• The control system is clear and accessible, a silent but powerful compressor can operate in a continuous mode around the clock, ensuring effective protection of the patient's skin from pressure sores.
• The manufacturer guarantees a year around the clock anti-decubitus system.
• The mattress is made of lightweight and durable material that does not cause allergies and is well washable. The maximum load is 120 kg.

It is intended for immobilized patients after suffering injuries, cardiovascular diseases and disorders of cerebral circulation, as well as in the postoperative period. Specifications:

• Consists of 17 air chambers (cylinders), which are fastened together.
• The cylinders in the center of the product, where the greatest load falls, are equipped with micro holes, which ensure air circulation.
• There are several filling cycles. With the help of alternate changes in pressure in the cylinders is a relaxing and massage effect on the entire body of the patient.
• The silent automatic compressor with a guarantee of work not less than a year.
• Maximum load - 140 kg.

Autonomous mattress, working without the use of electricity, is designed to prevent and treat lesions of the skin of light and medium form:

• Thanks to a special flotation technology, an imitation of the enveloping properties of water on the patient's body is created, as if immersed in it. The pressure is distributed evenly, reducing the load and the risk of the appearance of pressure sores.
• The special technology and thoughtful design of the surface of the mattress provide a significant reduction in pressure and friction, thus nullifying the possibility of damaging the patient's skin.

• The mattress maintains stability and a comfortable position, since the pushing force of air is the same at any point on its surface.
• Drainage holes protect against moisture accumulation and provide a comfortable microclimate on the surface.
• The product consists of three individually adjustable sections.
• The lower limit by weight is 5 kg, which allows the use of a mattress for children, the upper one is 136 kg.

Considering the fact that the anti-decubitus mattress should be chosen individually for each patient depending on his condition and only after consulting a doctor, it is impossible to answer this question unequivocally.

After analyzing the reviews on anti-decubitus mattresses of various manufacturers, it can be concluded that the positive effect of the use of such systems is noted by almost all.

You can find disappointed reviews of consumers who have bought low-cost models. They celebrate their fragility. A lot of positive reviews on brands in Germany (ADL, Bronigen), USA (Roho), Italian (OSD, Gi-emme). When buying a tubular mattress, you should pay attention to the models with independent cylinders, the manufacturer usually comes with a spare kit with them, which can be easily replaced by a damaged item. It is important to always ask before you buy, how silently does the compressor workso that later the patient does not experience discomfort.

Properly selected high-quality anti-decubitus mattress will have a healing effect on the body of a loved one and allow him to more comfortably move the period of forced immobility. It remains to add that buying anti-decubitus systems and mattresses is necessary only in specialized stores with a certificate of conformity and a medical certificate.

How to choose an anti-decubitus mattress, you will learn from the following video.