• Providing pressure redistribution for clients at risk of pressure injuries or ulcers.
• Supporting comfort and spinal alignment for clients with long-term bed rest needs.
• Minimising shear and friction for palliative or highly dependent clients.
• Assisting in post-surgical recovery where pain relief and immobility are factors.
• Enhancing safety and comfort in home care and residential aged care environments.

• Pressure Redistribution: Foam, gel, or air surfaces reduce pressure on high-risk areas such as heels, sacrum, and shoulders.
• Zoned or Contoured Support: Multi-layered or contoured designs provide targeted support for different body regions.
• Alternating Air Technology: Dynamic systems cycle inflation to relieve pressure points over time—ideal for high-risk clients.
• Waterproof & Vapour-Permeable Covers: Prevent fluid ingress while allowing breathability for skin health.
• Fire-Retardant & Hospital Grade Materials: Meet regulatory standards for use in aged care and clinical settings.

• Static Foam Mattress: Basic pressure care surface using high-density or layered foam to redistribute weight. Suitable for low-risk clients or short-term use.
• Contoured Foam Mattress: Features zoned or profiled areas to offer enhanced pressure relief at key contact points. Common in moderate-risk clients.
• Alternating Air Mattress: Dynamic surface that cyclically inflates and deflates cells to offload pressure. Ideal for clients at high or very high risk of pressure injury.
• Hybrid Mattress: Combines static foam and low-air-loss or alternating technology, offering a balance of comfort and active pressure relief.
• Bariatric Mattress: Reinforced and wider models designed to support higher weight capacities while still offering pressure redistribution.
• Low-Air-Loss Mattress: Actively circulates air to manage moisture and temperature—suitable for complex or palliative care clients with fragile skin.
• Static Air Overlay: A non-powered air-filled layer placed over an existing mattress to boost pressure care for clients at mild to moderate risk.

• Clients at low risk of pressure injuries → Standard foam mattress or static foam with contoured zones.
• Clients at moderate risk or with limited mobility → Contoured foam or hybrid mattress with better pressure distribution.
• Clients at high risk or existing stage 1–2 pressure injury → Alternating air mattress with clinical oversight.
• Bariatric clients → Reinforced mattress with wide width and high weight capacity (check pressure care rating).
• Palliative or bedbound clients with fragile skin → Low-air-loss or alternating air mattress for both comfort and moisture management.

• Client has existing stage 2 or higher pressure injury → Requires clinical-grade alternating air or low-air-loss system—basic foam is not appropriate.
• Client cannot reposition independently and is on a static mattress → Increased risk of pressure injury—dynamic support surfaces may be needed.
• Mattress is sagging, compressed, or doesn’t return to shape → Indicates loss of pressure redistribution properties—replace immediately.
• Client reports excessive heat, sweating, or skin maceration → Surface may lack breathability—consider vapour-permeable covers or airflow mattresses.
• Improper fit with the bed base (e.g. too short or narrow) → Poses entrapment and safety risks—always match size to bed frame.

Hospital mattresses are designed to reduce pressure, improve hygiene, and fit adjustable beds. They often include clinical features like waterproof covers, contoured zones, or alternating air cells—none of which are found in standard home mattresses.

Some foam pressure care mattresses may work on flat domestic bases, but most require an adjustable bed frame for full effectiveness—especially hybrid or alternating systems. Compatibility should always be checked at time of sale.

Not at all. Many modern pressure care surfaces are made with comfort in mind. Some models even have soft top layers or memory foam for a familiar feel while still offering therapeutic support.

Weight limits vary. Standard models typically support up to 120 kg, while bariatric versions can accommodate 150–300 kg. Always check the specification sheet to ensure a safe match for the user.

Yes—but it must be breathable and not interfere with the function of the pressure care surface. Avoid plastic or non-permeable protectors unless clinically required. Many mattresses already include waterproof covers.

Static foam redistributes pressure by contouring to the body and spreading load over time. Alternating air mattresses actively cycle inflation between cells to offload pressure from one area at a time—ideal for clients who can’t reposition independently or have existing pressure injuries.

No—alternating systems rely on a powered pump to maintain the airflow cycle. Without it, the mattress defaults to a static air mode and loses its dynamic pressure-relief functionality. In those cases, consider a non-powered static air overlay instead.

Retail mattresses are designed for comfort, not clinical use. Clinical mattresses are built to meet infection control standards, reduce the risk of pressure injuries, support medical conditions, and integrate with height-adjustable beds. They also undergo rigorous safety and durability testing.

Yes. Most pressure care mattresses include a waterproof, vapour-permeable cover that prevents fluid penetration while allowing the skin to breathe. However, persistent exposure may still degrade the foam—continence management plans are essential.

Yes—mattresses are often rated for low, medium, high, or very high risk of pressure injury. These ratings are based on clinical guidelines (e.g., Waterlow or Braden scales). Always match the mattress rating with the client's clinical profile or OT recommendation.

Yes, most clinical mattresses are designed to work with hospital-style profiling beds and side rails. However, ensure the mattress depth matches the side rail clearance to prevent entrapment. We can advise on safe combinations.

It depends on the mattress type. Foam mattresses may be used on flat frames, but alternating air and hybrid systems often require adjustable profiling beds to function correctly and safely.

Pressure care mattresses generally last 3–5 years with normal use. Lifespan can vary depending on user weight, care routines, and exposure to moisture or incontinence. Alternating systems may need earlier servicing or pump replacement.

Foam and hybrid mattresses are silent. Alternating air mattresses use a low-noise pump, which produces a gentle hum. Most users find it unobtrusive, especially with newer, quieter models.

No. Most pressure care mattresses are designed with breathable covers to minimise heat and moisture build-up. Low-air-loss systems provide active airflow for temperature control and skin health.

Wipe-down waterproof covers are standard. Some may be machine-washable. Avoid soaking foam cores. Alternating air systems require pump filter checks and regular inspection for leaks or airflow issues.

This could be a sign of foam fatigue, pump failure (in air systems), or incorrect bed base support. If the mattress doesn’t return to shape or feels collapsed under pressure points, it may need replacement.

Only if approved by a clinician. Additional layers may interfere with pressure redistribution—especially on air systems. Some comfort layers are compatible, but clinical advice is recommended.

Yes. Even advanced pressure care mattresses don't eliminate the need for repositioning, especially for high-risk users. Repositioning schedules are still required to prevent pressure injury development.

Overly soft mattresses may cause poor posture, increased shear, and lack of pressure redistribution—raising the risk of pressure injuries. Firmness and envelopment must be balanced for clinical outcomes.

Yes, most pressure care mattresses are designed to flex with profiling beds. However, alternating air systems must be carefully matched to avoid bending air hoses or disrupting pressure cycles.

No. Mattresses reduce risk but don’t eliminate it. Skin care, nutrition, hydration, and repositioning are all still essential parts of a full pressure care plan.

‘Bottoming out’ means the user is sinking through the mattress and contacting the bed base, which defeats the pressure care function. This requires immediate action—either replacing the mattress or reassessing needs.

Every 6–12 months. Pumps, hoses, and pressure settings should be reviewed to ensure function and safety. Filters may need cleaning or replacement to maintain proper airflow.

Only bariatric-rated models should be used for clients over 120–150 kg. Look for reinforced cores or heavy-duty air systems designed to safely distribute weight and prevent bottoming out.

It can be, but consider pump noise and mattress movement. Some clients may find the sensation confusing or uncomfortable. Hybrid or quiet static systems may be more appropriate in some cases.

Using a mattress below the user’s pressure injury risk level can result in inadequate support. Always use clinical guidelines or an OT assessment to match mattress risk rating to the client’s needs.