Who we are
We are a team who assess the need for a dynamic mattress and provide them when appropriate
What we do
We provide Dynamic Mattress Equipment for patients are resident of Medway and registered with a Medway GP. The equipment is clinically designed to support pressure ulcer prevention/treatment and enhance patient comfort through intelligent alternating air technology. All referrals for pressure prevention equipment must be made by healthcare professionals only.
What is a dynamic mattress?
A dynamic mattress system sometimes called an alternating pressure mattress, is a type of medical mattress designed to reduce and relieve pressure on the skin and underlying tissues.
It uses a series of air cells that inflate and deflate in programmed cycles, changing the body’s contact points with the mattress surface.
This helps to:
- relieve and redistribute pressure
- encourage circulation
- support comfort and healing for individuals at risk of skin breakdown.
Key features:
- alternating air pressure system
- adjustable firmness levels
- quiet pump and control unit
- waterproof, easy-clean cover.
Dynamic mattresses are typically prescribed or recommended by a healthcare professional as part of a broader pressure area care plan. The mattresses are prescribed for an individual and are on loan by Medway Community Healthcare. If the mattress is not required any more the Dynamic Mattress is to be returned.
Dynamic mattresses should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. They are not a substitute for regular patient repositioning or ongoing clinical assessment.
Why people use dynamic mattresses
Dynamic mattresses are an evidence-based solution for preventing and managing pressure ulcers. They are particularly beneficial for people who:
- spend extended periods in bed or have reduced mobility
- have existing pressure ulcers (category one to four)
- are at moderate to high risk or very high risk based on
- clinical assessment tools (for example, Purpose T)
- clinical benefits:
- continuous pressure redistribution
- improved microclimate and comfort
- reduction in manual handling for carers
- proven outcomes in skin protection and ulcer prevention.
Type of dynamic mattress
- Alternating pressure mattress: uses alternating air cells to relieve pressure – for patients at moderate to very high risk.
- Low air loss system: circulates air to manage heat and moisture – for patients prone to moisture damage or at very high risk.
- Hybrid system: combines foam and air for comfort and support – for patients at moderate to high risk.
How to request
The mattresses are prescribed for individuals by a healthcare professional. If you have a dynamic mattress already or feel you individual needs have changed please contact your Community Nursing or Tissue Viability on 0300 123 3444.
For healthcare professionals to complete dynamic mattress specialist equipment request:
For same-day installation, requests must be received before 1pm.
Dynamic mattress equipment to support hospital discharge must be ordered at least 48 hours in advance.
(opens in new tab)