Distributes Weight Evenly ThroughoutĪlong with the durability and comfort factor mentioned above, gel – much like memory foam – has the ability to disperse weight evenly throughout it while allowing direct pressure to be distributed properly. Using a gel pad with a foam mattress can allow the skin to breathe more so a user has a reduced chance of developing bedsores. Perspiration is one of the most common reasons that people develop pressure ulcers during their long stays in bed. More Air Circulation to Help Skin “Breathe”īecause of the cooling effects of the gel, users can feel comfortable knowing that moisture is being consistently absorbed and evaporated away from their bodies. When combined with a hospital bed, a user can achieve proper repositioning to remain comfortable even during readjustments. This results in more comfortable nightly rests. Silicone is made to last and has a greater longevity than most foams. The silicone beads that are grouped together (or spaced apart in some hybrid-foam pads) help to provide the same durability and comfort that a memory foam mattress offers. Some other benefits provided by a hospital bed gel mattress include: Comfortable and Durable Medical gel in the medical industry has only begun increasing in popularity since the 2000s, but it has come a long way and is gaining traction among an increasing number of users who are benefitting from them. There are many benefits that we’ve touched on concerning what a gel mattress pad for a hospital bed can do for the patient, but there are many more benefits associated with using them aside from merely the improved cooling effect that gel can provide. This style is common among Invacare gel mattress overlays. This helps treat more pressure ulcers and even prevent them. In other cases the gel in the mattress pad for bed sores is composed of thick gel bladders encased in the foam much like a solace gel mattress overlay. Medical gel overlay mattress pads may represent a lining of gel on top of the foam. The gel is often made with silicone materials and can is often used in conjunction with non-silicone pads (such as polyurethane or cellulose foam) in a layered fashion to provide both the benefits of silicone as well as those of foam overlays. For instance, a mattress labeled firm may be too firm for some or not firm enough for another person’s needs.A gel mattress topper for a hospital bed is made of newer medical gel technology that allows for the treatment of bedsores, pain associated with bedrest, and moisture control. In addition, a person who will be using a hospital mattress at home may not be able to try the mattress before buying it.įurther, mattress labels may be misleading. RisksĪ hospital bed mattress may not be suitable for people who are not at risk of developing bedsores, those who do not have reduced mobility, and those who do not need to remain lying down. Cotton-based fabrics may cause increased friction forces and damage to the skin. Some experts suggest using silk-based fabrics, since they are superior in pressure ulcer prevention. This resulted in a 66.6% decrease in stage 3 and 4 pressure ulcers and a 50% reduction in mattress comfort complaints. One study demonstrated that a large-scale switch-out of hospital mattresses led to a reduction in hospital-acquired pressure sores. However, it may not suit more mobile people. The head, leg, and bed heights are typically adjustable with hospital mattresses, and they can bend with the adjustment of the head and legs.īenefits and risks of hospital bed mattressesįor individuals who must remain in bed, a hospital bed with a hospital bed mattress is safer and more comfortable than a traditional bed and mattress. These features ensure the mattress meets medical-grade sanitation standards. Hospital bed mattresses should also be waterproof, antimicrobial, and easy to clean. These materials are similar to those found in traditional mattresses and include: Hospital bed mattress manufacturers use different materials in their products than regular mattress manufacturers. Impaired drainage from the lymphatic system may also contribute to the development of sores.Ĭompared with traditional mattresses, hospital bed mattresses work better for preventing and relieving pain from pressure sores. Prolonged external pressure on tissues causes a lack of blood flow to the affected area. Pressure ulcers occur due to a combination of factors. Some people require specialized mattresses if they are sick or if they have reduced or impaired mobility.Ī traditional mattress may not suit certain medical conditions, may aggravate them, or cause pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores.
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