Impaired or reduced mobility may require a specialized mattress for a medical bed. Regular mattresses won’t offer patients the support they require, causing unnecessary pressure on some parts of the body. The consequence usually curtails the ability to rest and heal.
Finding appropriate mattresses for a medical bed is crucial to the individual’s long-term health and recovery. Since medical beds are adjustable, non-medical mattresses likely won’t fit the bed frame correctly.
Medical mattress designs contour to the patient’s needs and enable moving the bed. Some regular mattresses contain rigid inner springs that hamper comfort.
Since immobile patients are resigned to their beds, air medical mattresses help prevent pressure ulcers or bedsores. Due to a lack of blood flow and poor lymph drainage, bed sores could develop. However, a proper medical mattress can help avoid issues.
The Best Air Mattresses for Medical Beds
An expansive range of proper medical mattresses, including air mattresses are available. Consider these options.
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Drive Medical 15019 Therapeutic Foam Mattress
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Drive Medical’s therapeutic foam mattress is flame-retardant and waterproof. It features a sheer two-way stretch cover that helps reduce body friction. The foam is appropriate for back and tummy sleepers, and the top layer reduces the impact on the bony parts of the body.
| What we like: | What we don’t like: |
| Mattress is comfortable Spreads out weight evenlyIt’s affordable and value for moneyIdeal for chronic painAble to carry weight up to 350 poundsUser rating of 4.3 out of 5 Lightweight and easy to carryDurable material | Forms permanent depressions quickly Starts becoming uneven after a whileNot comfortable for all users |
Invacare SPS1080 Solace Prevention Hospital Bed Mattress
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This mattress offers relief to patients who are at a medium to high risk of developing bedsores. It features three zones that distribute the individual’s weight and relieve pressure on the head, body, and heels. It offers comfort and support even through extended use, making it ideal for bedridden patients.
| What we like: | What we don’t like: |
| The Level of firmness is ideal Changing sheets is easyThe mattress doesn’t sink when used for longCan support up to 350 poundsIt’s durable and easy to clean spills and stains5-year manufacturer warrantyFlexible enough to adjust with the bed | Some users found it too stiff There were reports of odors from the mattressMattress flattened before a year for some patients |
Medacure Pressure Redistribution Foam Hospital Bed Mattress
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Medacure supplies one of the more comfortable medical mattresses available. It features three layers of memory foam that distribute the patient’s weight evenly. The airflow it promotes minimizes moisture and is available in six sizes, catering to overweight users.
| What we like: | What we don’t like: |
| It’s super comfortable and long enough Flexible enough to move with the bed adjustmentsExcellent quality mattress and worth the priceOverall user rating of 4.4 out of 5 | Unknown maximum body weight Users report that memory foam indents can cause discomfort |
Invacare Softform Premier Hospital Bed Mattress
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Invacare developed this mattress to offer fluid resistance with a contoured foam insert. The foam layer provides comfort and reduces pressure on the body. It contains individual cells that disrupt tension, enabling deep comfort for the user. The removable and washable cover is a practical addition.
| What we like: | What we don’t like: |
| Perfect for patients who are at very high risk of developing bedsores Supports a maximum weight of 500 pounds3-zone construction supports the head, mid-section, and footCompatible with a wide range of medical bedsUser rating of 4.6 out of 5Durable and long-lastingCover doesn’t allow liquid to seep throughReasonably priced, offering excellent quality This mattress is very comfortable and supportive | Users report a sinkhole in the center after a while The mattress was too thin for some patientsThe stiffness of the mattress is not suitable for all people |
VOCIC Alternating Air Pressure Mattress Pad with Micro Air Holes & Sleep Mode
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This air mattress for a medical bed comes with two modes—alternating and sleep. The former helps to increase circulation while evenly distributing weight to support pressure points. Sleep mode offers a comfortable air cushion that improves the patient’s sleep. It features tiny breathable vents that allow ventilation and is stain- and water-resistant.
| What we like: | What we don’t like: |
| Supports up to 300 pounds in weight It has a quiet pump with customizable controls to adjust the softness or firmnessSecures easily with clamps at both endsOne year of free after-sales serviceSkin-friendly and easy to cleanIncludes repair patches and glue in case of puncture | Takes 15 to 20 minutes to pump from opening Flesh sticks to the mattress without the use of a sheet |
What to Consider When Choosing a Medical Mattress
Since Dr Willis Gatch invented the first hospital bed in the early 20th century, medical beds have evolved dramatically. Today, you have a wide selection of medical mattresses, making the choice slightly more tricky, especially if you’re shopping for one on behalf of someone else. These factors are crucial in choosing the ideal medical mattress.
- Immersion and Envelopment. Consider how the mattress holds the patient’s body. It should be neither too firm nor too soft. Additionally, considering their weight, how deep does the mattress depress when the person lays on it? These factors are critical as they vary between patients. The envelopment and immersion shouldn’t hinder movement if the individual is somewhat independently mobile.
- Durability. Ideally, you want to purchase a medical mattress that the patient can use for a while instead of replacing it every six or 12 months. Confirm whether it requires constant maintenance or has properties that allow easy cleaning.
- Cost-Efficient. While cheap options are available, you could pay more to maintain the mattress in the long term. Investing in a high-quality product from the outset can prevent unnecessary expenses while using the mattress.
- Comfort. The primary reason for buying a medical mattress is to improve an individual’s comfort. It can make life comfortable for the patient regardless of the extent of their mobility. Consider whether the mattress allows easy entry and exit and supports quick emergency evacuation. The mattress must meet the specific care needs of the patient. Mattresses can have different comfort settings that you can adjust to suit the patient’s requirements.
- Flexibility. Medical mattresses must fit the bed frame. Anything too short or long will be uncomfortable for the patient and the caregiver. Ensure it can bend with the bed’s operation while offering support.
- Material and Firmness. Mattresses usually come in foam, air, and innerspring, which largely dictate their firmness or softness. Striking the balance should factor in the patient’s condition and preference. Bear in mind that it should have adequate firmness to offer enough support but remain comfortable.
- Weight Capacity. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to medical mattresses. Carefully note the maximum weight capacity of the mattress, as exceeding this number will likely lead to it failing to perform as intended.
Considering these points before you purchase any mattress for a medical bed can go a long way in avoiding frustrations with patients who are already struggling with their mobility. Once you’ve purchased a mattress, ensure proper maintenance to increase longevity.
- Inspect the mattress regularly to check for stains and damage. You can expect wear and tear, and noticing these signs quickly can help you make the necessary repairs or arrangements.
- Rotate or flip the mattress occasionally. However, doing this step depends on the type of mattress. Still, if you can, flipping it can ensure it provides even support to the patient.
- Use a mattress cover if it isn’t waterproof. Breathable covers protect the mattress from spills, stains, and odors. You can simply wash and reuse them whenever needed.
- Disinfect the mattress occasionally to eradicate bacteria or germs.
Improve Living Conditions for the Patient
Patients with limited or no mobility can find it difficult to get rest, especially if they’re not sleeping on a medical mattress. Investing in one doesn’t only assist the patient but also the caregiver. It prevents bed sores from developing, which goes a long way to improving their overall standard of living.
