Air mattresses are fantastic tools for preventing pressure ulcers (bedsores) in bedridden patients. But do they completely eliminate the need for regular turning?
The Short Answer: Yes, you still need to turn patients on air mattresses, but perhaps less frequently than with standard mattresses.
Why Turning Matters Even with an Air Mattress
- Consistent pressure relief: Air mattresses cycle pressure to different body areas, but regular turning offers total pressure relief for various parts of the body.
- Lung health: Changing a patient’s position helps drain fluids from different lung areas, promoting better breathing.
- Comfort: Even the best air mattress can’t fully mimic the comfort of changing positions naturally.
- Skin checks: Turning provides an opportunity for thorough skin assessments to catch potential pressure injuries early.
How Often Should You Turn a Patient on an Air Mattress?
- No one-size-fits-all: The ideal turning frequency depends on the patient’s overall health, risk factors, and skin condition.
- General guideline: Aim to turn the patient every 2-3 hours, but consult with a doctor or nurse for specific recommendations.
- Observation is key: Pay close attention to the patient’s skin. Redness or irritation might mean you need to turn them more often.
Important Considerations
- Type of air mattress: Some advanced air mattresses may have features (like lateral rotation) that lessen the need for manual turning.
- Medical devices: Tubes, lines, etc., may make turning more complex. Get guidance from healthcare professionals.
- Patient safety: Always turn patients gently and carefully to avoid injury.
The Bottom Line
Air mattresses are vital in bedsore prevention, but they work best in conjunction with regular turning and attentive care. If you’re caring for a bedridden loved one, speak to their doctor or nurse to establish the best turning schedule.
