A 100 Patient Clinical Evaluation of an Alternating Pressure Replacement Mattress in a Home-Based Setting

Background: alternating pressure air mattresses (APAMs) support the prevention and management of pressure ulcers. A health and care NHS trust was seeking an APAM that would improve clinical outcomes in relation to pressure ulcers while considering financial cost. An APAM existed that could meet the trust's needs but there was a lack of evidence over its use in a community/home setting. This study examined the effect of using the Dual Professional (IQ Medical) APAM for patients at a high risk of pressure ulceration. It also determined patient and family satisfaction, and the views of clinicians in relation to clinical outcomes. Additionally, infection prevention and control, servicing, maintenance and electrical biomechanical engineer input were considered. Method: a prospective observational study was undertaken of 100 patients in their own homes following a pilot study of 10 patients. The period of the evaluation was from one day up to 295 days, with a mean average of 83 days, and a total of 5809 bed days. Results: with a regimen of regular repositioning of patients and a good diet, the APAM was effective in preventing pressure ulceration in the 100 patients who were at a high or very high risk of skin breakdown and pressure ulceration. Conclusion: selection of pressure redistributing surfaces should be based on holistic patient assessment, including risk assessment, mobility levels, grade of pressure damage and clinical judgment.