Alternating-pressure air mattresses: the Quattro range

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Patient Care Technology

Background:

• Alternating-pressure air mattresses (APAMs) are established devices for pressure sore prevention.
• Advances in APAM design since the 1980s have improved their efficacy.
• Large-cell APAMs represent a significant development in pressure redistribution technology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the theoretical and practical aspects of a new 'large-cell' APAM design.
• To assess the benefits of a modified inflation/deflation cycle in APAMs.
• To propose a method for verifying the suitability of APAMs for maintaining skin health in high-risk patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of theoretical advantages and disadvantages of the new APAM technology.
• Discussion of practical considerations for the use of Quattro range APAMs.
• Development and suggestion of a simple assessment method for skin health promotion.

Main Results:

• The modified inflation cycle allows for lower peak pressures, potentially increasing patient comfort.
• The new design is anticipated to offer improvements in versatility and durability compared to older models.
• A method for assessing the suitability of APAMs for promoting healthy skin is proposed.

Conclusions:

• The novel inflation/deflation cycle in Quattro APAMs offers potential benefits for patient comfort and device longevity.
• These APAMs may provide enhanced pressure sore prevention for highly dependent individuals.
• The suggested assessment method can aid clinicians in selecting appropriate support surfaces for vulnerable patients.