How to Use Low Air Loss Mattresses

Low air loss mattresses are used in hospitals, nursing homes and other long term medical establishments to prevent or alleviate pressure ulcers in patients who are unable to move on their own. They come in many shapes and sizes, and there are numerous types. Some go on top of existing mattresses, some replace existing mattresses and some are entire bed assemblies. To achieve the correct results in the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers, the patient must be moved periodically, or the pressure must move itself. Some mattresses will actually change pressure from one point to another on the patient's body.

Things You'll Need

• Low air loss mattress
• Electrical outlet

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Instructions

• 1

  Place the mattress in position, whether on top of a normal mattress with the pump nearby, as a replacement mattress with the pump nearby, or by an outlet with the pump built in.

• 2

  Plug the pump into the outlet and turn it on. It should be connected to the mattress. If not, connect the pump to the mattress at the air inlet before turning it on, then turn it off and disconnect it once again before using the mattress.

• 3

  Lay on the bed and check to make sure that everything feels correct. Adjust the pressure as needed.