Specialty Mattress Toppers/Overlays

Specialty Mattress Toppers/Overlays

Hospital Bed Mattress
•	May cause sweating & itching
•	May be too firm/hard
•	May increase pressure sore risk
Pressure Relief Toppers
•	May increase comfort
•	May reduce risk for pressure sores
•	No one type effective in all situations
•	Pros & cons of each
Consumer Guide
Treating Pressure Sores
See also: Bedsores (pressure sores) by Mayo Clinic

Treating Pressure Sores

Pressure sores are areas of damaged skin caused by staying in one position for too long. They commonly form where the bones are close to the skin, such as ankles, back, elbows, heels, and hips. At highest risk are those who are bedridden, use a wheelchair, are unable to change position, or have other medical problems that can compromise overall health. As pressure sores can deep and worsen over time, it's critical that they are treated immediately. Contact the person's nurses and doctors to develop a comprehensive treatment plan, including all or some of the following:

Using supportive devices (e.g., mattresses, overlays, seat cushions, heel/elbow cushions)
Changing the person's position frequently (at least every two hours)
Inspecting the skin daily
Putting the person on a special diet
Using creams and special dressings

Send This Page To A Friend:
Specialty Mattress Toppers/Overlays

* Required Fields

Your Name*

Your Email*

Friend's Email*
(Separate multiple addresses with commas)

Add a Note

(Maximum length: 500 characters)

Send me a copy

Narration:

A standard hospital bed mattress may be uncomfortable for the person, especially if he or she spends a lot of time in bed. For example, he or she may find the mattress too firm and uncomfortable. Or the vinyl mattress cover may make the individual hot and sweaty. Both pressure and moisture contribute to the development of pressure sores, especially with high risk individuals.

Many caregivers place a special pressure relieving mattress topper or overlay on top of the existing mattress as pictured here. Or the person's health care provider may prescribe one to treat a pressure sore. Although many types of mattress overlay materials are available, no single type is effective in all situations. See our Consumer Guide for more information, including the pros and cons of the 4 main types of pressure relief toppers.