Supra Low Air-Loss Therapy Mattress by Medline

Patients who are bedridden or who spend large amounts of time sitting or lying down are prone to skin breakdown and pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers, also known as decubitus ulcers, pressure sores, and bed sores, are caused by prolonged pressure on a specific area of the skin. This can happen when patients lie in one position for long periods of time without turning or getting up. Areas such as the heels, buttocks, shoulder blades, elbows, and the back of the head are most prone to developing pressure ulcers because these parts extend out from the center of the body the furthest, so they receive the most contact with the bed, and therefore, the most pressure and friction. The buildup of heat, which leads to perspiration, also contributes to pressure sore formation. The presence of moisture can weaken the skin, which makes it more susceptible to tearing.

Pressure ulcers occur in stages, with Stage I being the least advanced and Stage IV being the most severe. In Stage I, the skin reddens from pressure and may feel warmer than surrounding areas of skin. The skin may also feel different to the touch from surrounding skin.

In Stage II, the skin opens into a sore. At this point it becomes painful and affects layers of skin beneath the very surface. It may look like a blister or a scrape.

In Stage III, an open wound is clearly visible and causes an open area in the skin, down to deeper layers of tissue, possibly even to the layer of subcutaneous fat. Pain may lessen due to tissue damage. Infections of the bone or blood become a concern at this point.

At Stage IV the wound can potentially reach down to the muscle and even the bone. Damage is extensive and may be irreversible. Infections can be life-threatening.

Preventing pressure sores in patients who spend most of their time sitting in a wheelchair or lying in bed is a top priority. There are two ways to prevent the pressure buildup that leads to pressure ulcers. One is to use a quality bed or chair surface made of pressure-redistributing material. Removing pressure from a single point by distributing it evenly over the body helps to prevent the breakdown of skin.

The other method for preventing pressure ulcers is to periodically move or turn patients to provide relief to common pressure points. Of course, some patients may be unable to move or turn themselves, or to alert caregivers when they need to be moved. This is why the surface on which patients lie is so important.

Medline's Supra DPS Mattress uses several different methods and technologies to help prevent and relieve pressure ulcers. One of these is called alternating pressure therapy.

Alternating pressure is a type of technology used in pressure-relief mattresses that uses individual air cells that alternately inflate and deflate. This keeps the mattress soft while providing periodic relief of pressure points by changing the points of contact. The Supra DPS Mattress has a cell-on-cell design that allows alternating pressure while keeping the mattress partially inflated in case of a power outage, which keeps the patient from "bottoming out"½ on the hard box springs or bed.

Another feature that prevents pressure ulcers is low air loss therapy. Low air loss refers to the mattress's breathability and allowance of air to travel between the surface of the mattress and the patient's skin. This helps improve circulation and reduce heat buildup, which are both factors that can help lead to pressure sores. Low air loss also keeps the patient from becoming too hot or sweaty, for better comfort.

The Supra DPS Mattress has plenty of other great features that help contribute to the health and comfort of the patient. In addition to the alternating pressure and low air loss features, the mattress also has static float, auto firm, and seat inflation functions. These features all serve to help keep the mattress inflated to the most suitable level for the patient's needs.

The Supra DPS Mattress comes with a high quality cover that is designed to reduce friction and skin shearing. It stretches to accommodate the patient comfortable and prevent mattress damage.

The digital air pump is included with the mattress, and is used to inflate and control the Supra DPS Mattress. It has four alternating pressure programs with different cycle times, so the most appropriate level can be chosen to suit the patient. The program can also be changed periodically to provide greater variance in pressure distribution. The air pump is also equipped with a low pressure alarm that will alert caregivers in the case of lowered air pressure in the mattress, such as during a power failure.

The Supra DPS Mattress has a high weight capacity of 400 pounds, meaning it can safely be used for bariatric patients up to this weight. This makes the mattress extra durable and very safe, providing peace of mind for both patient and caregiver.

A model of this mattress with raised side bolters is available as well. These additional bolsters measure four inches high and serve to provide additional safety, preventing patients from rolling out of bed during the night. The reduced risk of falls or entrapment between the mattress and sides of the bed or side rails means greater safety for the patient.

Supra DPS Mattress Overview:

• Medline's state-of-the-art Supra DPS mattress is our most feature-driven mattress replacement system
  
• Functions include alternating pressure, low air-loss, static float, auto firm and seat inflation
  
• Cell-on-cell design prevents bottoming out during a power outage
  
• Digital pump with choice of four alternating pressure cycle times
  
• Upgraded low-friction, anti-shear stretch cover
  
• Low-pressure alarm with audio and visual indicators
  
• Weight capacity: 400 lbs.
  
• Also available with 4" raised air bolsters to help reduce the risk of patient falls and entrapment (MDT24DPSRE)