Research Shows That Alternating Air Mattresses Protects Against Ulcers Better Than Static Mattresses

Various studies have indicated that alternating air mattresses are more effective than using static mattresses in order to prevent ulcers. Pressure ulcers can also be referred to as pressure 'sores', ' damage', 'injuries' or 'bed sores'. They develop when an excessive amount of pressure builds up on a specific area of the skin over a short period of time. This disrupts the blood flow through the skin, resulting in a limited supply of blood to the affected area which then becomes starved of nutrients and oxygen. An ulcer forms as the layer of skin starts to break down. People with conditions such as type 2 diabetes, can make them more prone to developing bed sores. Furthermore patients over the age of 70 years old are vulnerable for the reasons that they are more likely to have mobility problems, and also because of the age of the skin.

Pressure ulcers are a very serious issue and concern amongst nursing when caring for critically ill patients. In some cases, it will only need minor nursing care, however for more extreme instances it could lead to more serious
conditions such as blood poisoning or gangrene which can be life threatening.

So why are alternating pressure air mattresses effective?

Alternating pressure air mattresses are effective because they work by redistributing the air in the mattresses which in turn shifts where the pressure is asserted on the patient. For example, the patient lies on air-filled sacs which deflate and inflate in a sequence. This is the mechanism that will relieve the pressure on different parts of the mattress. Some of these mattresses also incorporate a pressure sensor for ultimate effectiveness.

What else can be done to prevent bed sores?

Although these mattresses are effective in preventing ulcers, other things can be done. For example, making sure the patient has good personal hygiene and a highly nutritional diet will play a part in the prevention of ulcers. Also if possible, the patient should be regularly turned, and barrier creams, dressings and gels should be applied in order to prevent the bed sores. You could also make regular and frequent changes to the patient's position. Not only is this a prevention but it will help the patient if a pressure sore has already developed, because further pressure should not be asserted on the wound whilst it is healing. If the patient is unable to do this themselves because of problems with their mobility, then a career should be in charge of this.

Alpine Care Equipment provides beds, pressure care mattresses, profiling mattresses, moving and handling equipment, medical equipment, specialist seating and more to the healthcare sectors across the UK. Alpine's core values can be distilled into three key words; Easier, Simpler, Safer. In everything we do our main aim is to ensure these three values are at the centre of your supply experience. We offer Patient Slings and Hoist Slings.

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