Question 1

What is the difference between a mattress overlay and a pressure care replacement mattress?

Accepted Answer

A mattress overlay is placed on top of an existing mattress to add a layer of pressure redistributing material — foam, static air, or alternating air cells. Overlays are generally appropriate for clients at low to medium pressure injury risk and are a more economical option. A pressure care replacement mattress fully replaces the existing mattress and provides a higher level of surface management, making it more suitable for clients at medium to high risk, or those who already have a pressure injury requiring active management. The right choice depends on the individual’s risk level, skin condition, weight, and care setting. Call our team on (02) 9983 9520 if you are unsure which option is appropriate before purchasing.

Question 2

What is the difference between a static and an alternating pressure care overlay?

Accepted Answer

A static overlay maintains a consistent level of pressure redistribution without any active movement — the surface supports the body and spreads load more evenly than a standard mattress, but the contact points remain fixed. An alternating overlay uses an electric pump to cyclically inflate and deflate alternating rows of air cells, continuously shifting the pressure loading points across the body so that no single area is under sustained pressure for an extended period. Alternating systems are generally recommended for medium to high-risk clients or those with existing pressure injuries, while static systems are more appropriate for low to medium-risk prevention. Selection should be guided by a suitably qualified clinician.

Question 3

Are alternating air mattresses TGA registered?

Accepted Answer

Several of the alternating air mattresses and overlays in the Safety and Mobility range are TGA registered medical devices, supplied with analogue or digital pumps rated for different levels of pressure injury risk. TGA registration indicates that the product meets Australian regulatory standards for safety and clinical performance. Not all products on the market carry TGA registration — if this is a requirement for your facility or funding application, please contact our team and we will confirm the registration status of specific products in our range.

Question 4

How do I choose the right pressure care mattress for my patient or resident?

Accepted Answer

The appropriate pressure care mattress or overlay is determined by a combination of factors including the individual’s pressure injury risk score, their current skin integrity status, body weight, mobility level, positioning needs, and care environment. An appropriately qualified healthcare professional — such as a registered nurse, occupational therapist, or wound care specialist — should be involved in the assessment and product selection process, particularly for higher-risk clients or where a pressure injury is already present. Safety and Mobility’s team is experienced in discussing these clinical requirements and can assist in identifying suitable products once an assessment has been completed. Please contact us or call (02) 9983 9520 before purchasing if you have any uncertainty about the appropriate product.

Question 5

Can pressure care mattresses and overlays be funded through the NDIS?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Pressure care mattresses and overlays may be eligible for NDIS funding under the Assistive Technology support category or the Daily Activities support category, depending on how the product is assessed and used. Funding is subject to the item being assessed as reasonable and necessary by a suitably qualified health professional, such as an occupational therapist or registered nurse. Safety and Mobility is a registered NDIS provider and can supply pressure care products to NDIS participants and provide itemised quotes for plan managers and support coordinators. Contact us to discuss your client’s needs and we’ll assist with the process.

SAF Overlay – Pink

SAF Overlay – Pink/Grey

Mattress Overlays & Air Mattresses

SAF Overlay – Pink

SAF Overlay – Pink/Grey