Interface pressure measurements of support surfaces with subjects in the supine and 45-degree Fowler positions

In the past 20 years there has been a dramatic increase in different types of support surfaces to reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of static air overlays (Sof-Care and Tendercloud), replacement mattresses (Dermarest and Therarest), and a standard hospital mattress on tissue interface pressures in healthy subjects. A convenience sample of 25 subjects had tissue interface measurements obtained under the sacrum and heel bony prominences on the five support surfaces in the supine and 45-degree Fowler's positions. A repeated measures analysis of variance (p < 0.05) indicated that the Dermarest, Therarest, Sof-Care, and Tendercloud support surfaces reduced pressure significantly under the sacral bony prominence compared with the standard hospital mattress. Heel interface pressure measurements were significantly higher than sacral interface pressure measurements. There was no significant difference between supine and 45-degree Fowler's positions with respect to tissue interface pressures.