Name of the Procedure:

Air Pressure Mattress (E0186)
Common name(s): Air Mattress, Pressure-Relief Mattress
Technical/Medical Term: Alternating Pressure Mattress System

Summary

An air pressure mattress system is a medical device designed to prevent and manage pressure ulcers (bedsores). It uses alternating pressure to relieve stress on various parts of the body, improving blood flow and promoting healthy tissue.

Purpose

The air pressure mattress is primarily used to treat and prevent pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers can develop in individuals who are bedridden or have limited mobility, leading to painful and possibly dangerous wounds. The mattress helps distribute weight more evenly and reduces pressure on vulnerable areas.

Indications

• Patients who are bedridden or have limited mobility.
• Individuals at high risk for developing pressure ulcers, such as those with spinal cord injuries or severe chronic illnesses.
• Patients currently experiencing pressure sores.

Preparation

• Patient Instructions: No specific fasting or special preparation needed.
• Assessments: A healthcare professional may conduct a skin assessment to determine the patient's risk for pressure ulcers.

Procedure Description

1. Setup: The air pressure mattress is placed on a standard bed frame.
2. Configuration: The mattress is connected to an air pump system that controls the air pressure within the mattress cells.
3. Operation: The air pump alternates pressure in the mattress cells to periodically shift the patient's pressure points, reducing stress on the skin and tissues.
4. Adjustments: Settings can be adjusted based on patient comfort and clinical needs.

Duration

The setup and initiation of the air pressure mattress typically take about 30 minutes. The patient remains on the mattress as long as necessary, often continuously, according to their medical condition.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in a hospital, nursing home, or home care setting.

Personnel

• Nurses or trained medical staff for initial setup and monitoring.
• Caregivers or family members for ongoing daily use at home.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Discomfort or adjustment period while adapting to the new mattress.
• Rare Risks: Malfunction of the air pump system, leading to improper pressure distribution.

Benefits

• Effective pressure ulcer prevention and management.
• Improved comfort and quality of life for patients with limited mobility.
• Potential pain reduction and faster healing of existing pressure ulcers.
• Benefits are often realized within days to weeks of use.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Regular monitoring of the skin condition by healthcare professionals.
• Instructions: Regular adjustments and maintenance of the mattress system.
• Recovery Time: Continuous use as needed with regular skin assessments and follow-up appointments for any skin breakdown or pressure ulcer issues.

Alternatives

• Foam Mattresses: Less effective in pressure relief but simpler.
• Gel Mattresses: Provide good pressure distribution but can be heavy and hard to handle.
• Static Air Mattresses: Do not alternately inflate and are less effective in reducing pressure consistently.

Patient Experience

• During: The patient may feel slight fluctuations in mattress pressure, but it is generally comfortable.
• After: Most patients experience increased comfort and improved sleep quality. Regular skin checks and adjustments may be necessary to ensure ongoing effectiveness.
• Pain Management: Minimal discomfort typically associated, but any issues should be promptly addressed by medical staff.