Alternating Mattresses

Alternating Pressure Mattresses Australia – Pressure Injury Prevention & Management

Safety and Mobility supplies a range of alternating pressure mattresses and overlays for the prevention and treatment of pressure injuries in hospitals, aged care facilities, and home care settings across Australia. Alternating pressure mattresses use a motorised pump to cyclically inflate and deflate individual air cells in a repeating pattern, continuously redistributing pressure away from bony prominences and at-risk skin areas for clients who are unable to reposition themselves independently.

Regular pressure redistribution is the single most effective intervention for preventing pressure injuries in immobile clients. Our alternating pressure range spans low, medium, and high-risk rated systems, from lightweight alternating overlays suited to lower-risk home care clients through to high-specification alternating replacement mattress systems for high-dependency hospital and aged care environments. Bariatric-rated alternating mattresses with wider sleeping surfaces and higher weight capacities are also available.

As a registered NDIS provider, Safety and Mobility can supply alternating pressure mattresses to eligible NDIS participants and provide itemised quotes for plan managers and aged care providers. We deliver Australia-wide and can assist with clinical specification for complex pressure care needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between an alternating mattress overlay and a replacement mattress?
An alternating overlay sits on top of the existing mattress and is connected to a pump that cycles air through the cells. A replacement mattress system replaces the standard mattress entirely and is typically used for higher-risk clients requiring more consistent and intensive pressure redistribution. Overlays are generally lower cost and suited to lower to medium risk; replacement systems are indicated for higher-risk or longer-term pressure care needs.

2. Who needs an alternating pressure mattress?
Alternating pressure mattresses are indicated for clients who are immobile or have very limited ability to reposition themselves in bed, and who are at medium to high risk of developing pressure injuries. Clinical risk assessment tools such as the Braden Scale or Waterlow Score are commonly used to determine the level of pressure care support required.

3. Can alternating mattresses be used at home?
Yes, many models in our alternating pressure range are designed for home use, with quiet pump operation to minimise sleep disturbance and compact pump units that fit discreetly beside the bed. Contact our team to discuss home-appropriate alternating mattress options for your client's risk level and bed type.