Finding the right mattress is the best way to ensure lasting comfort and quality sleep. The right mattress can also make a huge difference when recovering from an injury. Poor quality mattresses do not properly support your body and can lead to the development of pressure ulcers and bedsores. While everyone can benefit from a supportive and comfortable mattress, it is imperative for the health of long term care patients. Innerspring, foam, and air system mattresses are all designed with different features and functions in mind. With such a vast selection to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start your search. We thought we would try to make things a little less overwhelming by breaking down the different types of mattresses we offer and sharing some of our most popular models.

Innerspring Mattresses

If you are looking for a hospital mattress that is similar to your mattress at home, an innerspring model may be your best bet. Innerspring mattresses can be found in various levels of firmness, depending on your needs. A firmer mattress will offer full-body support, while a softer one will better conform to the body. Innerspring mattresses are typically the most affordable option for a hospital mattress and are more breathable than foam. One thing to consider, however, is that innerspring mattresses are not ideal for long term care. Fully bedridden patients may develop pressure ulcers or shear if they are using an innerspring mattress for an extended period of time. For anyone who is consistently mobile throughout the day, this traditional mattress style is a perfect option.

We currently offer two innerspring mattresses from Drive Medical: one of average firmness and one extra firm. Both options come standard with a waterproof, anti-bacterial, and anti-static cover for comfort and easy maintenance. The high-quality innerspring design is made from premium grade cotton and high-density urethane foam to provide support and comfort. Additionally, two screened brass side vents allow airflow into and out of the mattress. Both of these innerspring mattresses from Drive Medical are wonderful options for someone who is mobile throughout the day but would like to upgrade to a more comfortable mattress.

Foam Mattresses

Foam mattresses are a lightweight, durable, and comfortable alternative to a traditional innerspring mattress. These mattresses are designed to support the entire body to relieve back or joint pain and to provide patients with better quality sleep. They also work well with adjustable beds as foam mattresses are extremely flexible. Most foam mattresses are ideal for long term care, as many models alleviate pressure to reduce the risk of developing pressure ulcers. Many also have a modular design that includes firmer side supports to prevent the patient from rolling over the side of the bed. Foam will maintain its shape for years, so if the mattress cover is properly cleaned these products are hands down the most economical over time. There is a wide variety of foam mattresses to choose from, including firmer high-density models, simple one-layer models, and intricate modular designs with multiple layers to support various parts of the body. We offer many different types of foam mattresses and will share some of our favorites.

Drive Medical’s Gravity 7 Long Term Care Pressure Redistribution Mattress is made from a durable, multi-layered, high-density foam designed to redistribute pressure. Made with long term care in mind, this mattress is zoned to optimize pressure reduction. The bottom layer of foam provides full-length support, while the top layer features die-cutting for flexibility and a true memory foam heel section to reduce heel shear and risk of pressure ulcer development. The  Gravity 7 Long Term Care Pressure Redistribution Mattress comes standard with a 2-way stretch, water-resistant, and vapor permeable nylon cover.

Hill-Rom’s AccuMax Quantum VPC Mattress features an innovative design that was created for patients with low to moderate risk of developing pressure ulcers. Multiple horizontal chambers divide the mattress into six different zones that will help with air distribution as the patient turns or moves in the bed. A sloped, cushioned heel section reduces the risk of heel shear and provides the patient with lower body support. The AccuMax Quantum VPC Mattress also features a viscoelastic foam topper designed to contour to the patient’s body. The standard cover for this mattress is made with a two-way stretch, anti-microbial, and stain-resistant material.

The Softform Premier Mattress from Invacare is another popular foam mattress. This mattress features a U-shaped foam core that keeps the patient centered and secure, as well as teardrop-shaped castellations in the top layer of foam. These castellations (or cut-outs) allow the mattress to flex and form to the patient’s body in any position. This makes the Softform perfect for adjustable beds, as it will successfully redistribute pressure in virtually any position. The modular design of this mattress also makes maintenance and replacement of pieces incredibly simple and affordable. The cover for the Softform Premier Mattress is created with a medical-grade textile that was designed for high use healthcare environments.

Air System Mattresses

If you are looking for a mattress for long term care, an air system mattress may be your best bet. Alternating pressure and low airflow mattresses support the patient’s body without putting stress on any pressure points. These mattress systems typically consist of a foam base and inflated cells that redistribute body weight. The modular design of many alternating pressure mattresses focuses on parts of the body that are at the highest risk for bedsores (heels, elbows, buttocks, etc), even when used on an adjustable frame. Most of these supportive mattresses come standard with firmer, secure sides to prevent the patient from falling off of the bed. The airflow within the mattress system also prevents sweating by wicking away moisture from the patient’s body. Low airflow mattresses will create a dry, cool sleeping surface by allowing air to flow out of the mattress towards the patient’s body. Many alternating pressure and low air loss mattresses come with several functions to increase blood flow, quickly transfer patients, and to access custom comfort settings. We offer a wide selection of alternating pressure mattresses including models from trusted brands such as Invacare, Hill-Rom, Drive Medical and Prius Healthcare. Read on to hear about some of our favorite alternating pressure mattresses.

Hill-Rom’s 300 Wound Mattress was created for patients suffering from Stage II or Stage III pressure ulcers. This innovative mattress system features 4 different settings of low air loss and alternating pressure to increase the patient’s comfort and to help them heal. When not in use, the 30 Wound Mattress can be rolled up for easy storage, and its 30-minute inflation time will have you comfortably resting in no time. This mattress comes standard with a vapor permeable, waterproof cover to wick away moisture from the patient’s body and protect the mattress system from liquids.

The Lateral Rotation Mattress System from Drive Medical helps patients with circulation problems and those at risk of developing pressure ulcers. This mattress system features low air loss to provide the patient with an aerated, dry sleeping surface, 10 adjustable comfort levels, and the ability to turn the patient up to 40º. The turning function will help increase circulation and relieve pressure. This feature includes a 10, 20,30 & 60-minute adjustable turning cycle mode. The Lateral Rotation Mattress can be easily adjusted to 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 & full position turning positions. This mattress system also comes standard with a vapor permeable, waterproof, and fire retardant top cover.

The Rhythm Multi Mattress from Prius Healthcare is made with a 2” convoluted foam base with plush, polythermal cells that provide comfort through pressure reduction. Functions include 10 comfort settings, 3-1 alternation therapy, and pulsation therapy to increase the patient’s blood flow. The Rhythm Multi Mattress also comes standard with several safety settings such as emergency CPR deflation as well as audio and visual alarms in case of low pressure or power loss. 

We’re here to Help!

No matter what kind of mattress you are looking for, the team at Med Mart is trained to help you find exactly what you need. Check out our Knowledge Center for videos on several of our mattress options, or give us a call at 1-888-260-4430 to speak with a product specialist. We know that finding the perfect mattress to meet your needs can be difficult, and we want to be sure that you have the right information to make the best decision for you and your family.

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