Medical Mattresses

Medical mattress frequently asked questions

What is a medical mattress?

A medical mattress also known as a hospital bed mattress, pressure mattresses are designed to give maximum comfort for users who have to spend a longer period of time in bed or have a medical need for one. They are used in the healthcare industry along with individual homes. A medical grade foam mattress can be used for pressure redistribution especially for users who are prone to developing pressure ulcers. They are usually made of a multi stretch water-resistant fabric cover and fire retardant, which makes them easy to clean and maintain.

What are medical grade foam mattresses made of?

Pressure relief mattresses such as the ones from Invacare are made up of the following:

• Cut medical grade foam constellations that support blood circulation.
• Multi-stretch vapor permeable, water-resistant polyurethane fabric cover.
• 3 sides zipped for ease of inspection.
• Fire Retardant.

What features do I need to consider when choosing a hospital style mattress?

The top 5 features to consider are:

• Patient size and weight – most mattresses will come as a standard length however an extension can be added. It is important to understand the user’s weight in order to obtain the right pressure medical grade foam.
• Need for cleaning – for patients who are incontinent, a mattress with anti-microbial covers and seams are needed.
• Short-term or long-term use – is it for a period of recovery only or for longer use?
• Patient mobility – Is the user spending less or more than 12 hours in bed? The more time spent in bed means the more care on preventing skin conditions such as bedsores, pressure ulcers, back pain or skin shearing. So the mattress becomes even more important to get the comfort right.
• Patient movement – is the user prone to falling out of bed? For restless patients, a smooth cover on a mattress can help prevent shearing.

What mattresses do hospitals and care homes use?

This will depend on the user’s requirements although you can split this down into two different types.

• Pressure reducing/redistribution mattresses – look to reduce the pressure on body load areas by redistributing that pressure. To do this more of the body’s surface area comes into contact with the mattress’s surface.
• Pressure-relieving mattresses – this can be achieved by alternating the pressure on the skin more frequently reducing pressure sores.

What is a Vicair mattress?

The Vicair mattress provides a combination of superior pressure re-distribution, comfort and positioning which makes it suitable for users at very high risk of developing pressure ulcers. Not only does the mattress have a medical grade foam base layer it also has Smart Cells to assist in the maintenance of stability. If you are looking for the ultimate pressure-relieving mattress that can reduce the pressure damage that a user can get then call your local mobility shop to discuss.

How much does a mattress cost?

Costs as with all mobility products can vary depending on the grade of mattresses you are requiring. Prices can start from just £180 for a mattress. Health professionals and NHS please call your local Shire Mobility store.

Do I need to have a special mattress for a hospital bed?

No, you can just as easily use a standard domestic mattress, although you will not get the same pressure relief as you would from a medical type mattress.

Can I hire an NHS style medical mattress?

Sorry, we don’t hire mattresses out for hygiene reasons. When hiring a hospital style bed we can offer you a mattress to purchase.

How long does a medical mattress last?

This can depend on the user, their movement and weight, however, the expected lifespan can be up to 8 years.