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Types of Air Mattress: Bubble and Tube Models, Choosing Correctly and Maintenance
How to choose an air mattress to prevent pressure ulcers: bubble and tube models, pressure settings, common mistakes and maintenance tips.
Contents
An alternating-pressure air mattress inflates and deflates air cells in turn so that pressure never stays on the same spot. It is an important aid in preventing and treating pressure ulcers in bedridden patients, but not every model suits every patient.
How it works
A compressor pumps air into alternating groups of cells; as one group inflates, the other deflates, shifting pressure points and maintaining blood flow.
| Feature | Bubble mattress | Tube (cell) mattress |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Small bubble-shaped cells | Transverse air tubes, individually replaceable |
| Use | Usually placed on top of the existing mattress | Instead of or over a mattress |
| Suitable for | Low–moderate risk, short-term use | High risk, long-term bed rest, existing ulcers |
| Support | Thinner, limited | Thicker, better redistribution |
| Repairs | Puncture usually means replacing the whole pad | A damaged tube can be replaced |
Weight, mobility and existing wounds determine the choice; heavier patients with wounds may need advanced systems.
Correct use
- Set pressure for the patient's weight: too low and they "bottom out", too high and it becomes hard.
- Hand check: slide a hand under the cells beneath the hips; about 2–3 cm of space usually means the pressure is right.
- Covering: only a thin single sheet; thick blankets or plastic sheets cancel the effect.
- Tubing: make sure it is not kinked.
- Keep it switched on, otherwise it deflates.
| Mistake | Result |
|---|---|
| Not repositioning because there is an air mattress | Ulcers can still develop |
| Thick covers or plastic sheets | Pressure relief blocked |
| Pressure not set for weight | Bottoming out or excessive firmness |
| Switching off at night due to noise | Deflation and higher risk |
| Missing deflated cells | Contact with a hard surface |
An air mattress does not replace repositioning, skin care and nutrition.
Maintenance
Wipe the surface with a soft cloth and mild cleaner, check and clean the compressor filter, seek support for deflating cells, unusual noise or pressure loss, and hang the compressor at the foot of the bed or place it on the floor with ventilation clear.
Some models have a transport mode that holds air during power cuts; reposition more often during long outages.
We rent and sell bubble and tube air mattresses across Yalova with installation, pressure setting and training, with nurses monitoring wounds when needed, and deliver to Bursa, Istanbul and Kocaeli–Gebze.
