Mattress for pressure ulcer prevention

Mattress that prevents pressure sores; works with or without motor.

Description
The Carital mattress has 3 sections, one for the head, a midsection, and a foot section. The sections are individually filled with a hand pump based on the user's weight (according to a table) using hoses in different colors. The hoses can also be connected to a motor to provide fluctuating pressure or to place the mattress on “stand-by”.

Authors comments
The user, who had pressure ulcers when newly injured, tested many different types of mattresses to prevent pressure sores. He likes this mattress, since he can use it on “stand-by” position and avoid the motor noise. He also feels that the mattress is not as slippery as other models. The mattress can develop holes after extensive use. The user therefore has an ordinary foam mattress under the Carital mattress.

Manufacturer
Carital, www.carital.com (last checked May 2011)

Paid for by
County council

Editors comments
Carital mattresses of today set pressure automatically according to tehe users weight.

The pressure sore team of Rehab Station Stockholm recommends Hill-Roms Duo 2, www.hill-rom.com/usa/index.asp as therapeutic mattress for preventing pressure sores. The mattress automatically sets different zones based on the user’s individual needs and position in bed. The pump does not make noise. It has a “firm” setting that makes it easier to turn over, with a warning signal as a reminder to reset the mattress to the original setting. The controls are available with a long hose so the user can take care of it unassisted.

Tip is dated from 2005

Categories for this tip
looking after ones health » preventing/healing ulcers, Tips and tricks from people with High tetraplegia with partly function in arms/hands (C5-6, ASIA A, B).