Air Mattresses for Hospital Beds

Do you need an air mattress for your hospital bed? 

These are not your typical air mattresses that you might get to take camping or throw on the floor when guests arrive. These air mattresses are for use in medical and long-term care environments as a complete mattress system that replaces the existing mattress, particularly on a hospital bed. They distribute a patient's weight evenly and reduce the risk of pressure sores which can be a common problem for those who are bedridden or spend a lot of time in bed due to limited mobility. 

Let’s take a deep dive into the different types of air mattresses commonly used with hospital beds in medical and home environments:

Types of hospital bed air mattresses

You can sort out these types of air mattresses by using the filter on this page. Select "Mattress features." 

Alternating pressure mattresses

Alternating pressure mattresses are designed to provide pressure relief for those who spend a good deal of time in a hospital bed by alternately inflating and deflating air cells to mimic the movement of a patient's body. They are powered by an electric pump that regulates the air pressure in the mattress.

+ Designed for those with moderate risk of developing bedsores.

Low air loss mattresses

Low-air loss mattresses are designed to help manage moisture buildup and maintain a dry environment for the patient. They comprise a series of air-filled cells covered by a permeable fabric that helps patients with a high risk of developing bedsores and requiring continuous pressure relief. You can buy this mattress if you are looking for a long-term hospital bed mattress for those who are bedridden. Many low air loss mattresses are also alternating pressure mattresses.

+ Designed for those with high risk of developing bedsores. 

Lateral rotation mattresses

Lateral rotation mattresses are designed to prevent and treat pressure ulcers by gently turning the patient from side to side. These mattresses are powered by an electric motor that helps rotate the patient. Many lateral rotation mattresses are either alternating pressure and/or low air loss mattresses, as well. 

+ For those patients who spend a significant amount of time in bed.

Bariatric air mattresses

Bariatric air mattresses for hospital beds are designed for patients who are overweight or obese. These mattresses are larger and more durable than standard air mattresses and can support patients weighing up to 1,000 pounds. They are typically used in intensive care units and other hospital settings where bariatric patients require long-term bed rest. 

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Use the filter on this page to sort out the type of hospital bed air mattress you need. Select "Mattress Features."

What are the advantages and disadvantages of hospital bed air mattresses?

There are several different types of air mattresses available for hospital beds, each with its own set of benefits and features. By understanding the different types of air mattresses available, you can select the most appropriate option for your patients and help prevent the development of pressure ulcers.

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of air mattresses for hospital beds.

Air Mattress Advantages

• Pressure Relief:
  Air mattresses are designed to evenly distribute a patient's weight, reducing pressure points and the risk of developing bedsores.
• Customizable Firmness:
  You can adjust the air pressure inside the mattress to provide the patient with the desired level of firmness and comfort.
• Durability:
  Air mattresses are made from durable materials and can withstand regular use in a hospital environment.
• Easy to Clean:
  Most air mattresses have removable covers that can you can easily clean and disinfect. 

Air Mattress Disadvantages

• Noise:
  Some air mattresses can be noisy when the air pressure is being adjusted or when a patient moves around on the bed.
• Cost:
  Air mattresses can be more expensive than traditional mattresses, which can be a consideration for healthcare facilities on a tight budget.
• Requires Electricity:
  Some air mattresses require electricity to inflate and maintain the air pressure, which can be a consideration in areas with unreliable power supplies.

Nonetheless, air mattresses are a good choice for a hospital bed if you carefully compare the options and make a selection based on your needs, budget and liking.

Check out the options we have or if it’s your first time buying a hospital bed mattress, message or call us for advice and assistance!

If you don't need this level of comfort, click to see our other hospital bed mattress options.

*Mattress level explanation

Choose a mattress level based on patient weight, how much time the patient will spend in bed, and whether or not the patient is in other ways prone to bed sores. 

• Level 1: Those who spend minimal or temporary time in the hospital bed;
• Level 2: Those who spend at least 12 hours per every 24 hour cycle in the hospital bed;
• Level 3: Those for heavier patients and/or confined to the hospital bed for most of every 24 hour cycle;
• Level 4: Air mattress for those confined to the bed and/or highly susceptible to bed sores.