Ambulation

Alternating Pressure Air Mattress 

Purpose: 

• To maintain adequate circulation. 

• To relieve pressure and aid in healing and/or prevention of pressure ulcers. 

• To reduce pain due to pressure. 

Equipment: 

• Alternating pressure air mattress. 

• Motor and plastic connection tubing. 

• Large sheet or loose fitted sheet. 

Procedure: 

1. Setup: 

• Contact maintenance for the setup of the mattress. 

• Place the mattress directly on the bed frame with air inlet tubes positioned at the head of the bed. 

• Hang the motor unit on the bed frame below the foot of the bed. 

• Connect the tubing to the motor unit connectors and secure them. 

• Note: Ensure the tubing is kept off the floor. 

• Plug the unit into an electrical outlet. Press the ON switch and check the indicator light to ensure the pump is operating. The light indicates the pump is functioning. 

• Allow the pad to inflate by setting the pressure midway as ordered or per the manufacturer’s recommendation. 

2. Bedding: 

• Place a large sheet and tuck it under the mattress, or use a loose fitted sheet. 

• Note: Avoid using additional linen that will negate the action of the air mattress. Avoid the use of safety pins near the air mattress. 

3. Resident Positioning: 

• Assist the resident onto the inflated alternating pressure mattress. 

• Complete bed making after positioning the resident. 

• Leave the resident in a comfortable position with the call light within easy reach. 

• Note: The need to turn and change the resident’s position continues even with the mattress in place. 

4. Monitoring and Maintenance: 

• Check the settings and function of the mattress regularly. 

• Report if the mattress is deflating or if the alarm is sounding. 

• When the mattress is discontinued, take the equipment to the utility room, clean it with a disinfectant solution, dry it well, and roll the pad. 

• Note: Avoid folding the pad. Avoid getting moisture into the mattress through the tubing. 

5. Housekeeping: 

• Housekeeping is responsible for cleaning and disinfecting the equipment and then storing it properly. 

Compliance and Documentation: 

• Adhere to CMS guidelines and Requirements of Participation for Long-Term Care Facilities. 

• Document the use of the alternating pressure air mattress in the resident’s care plan, including setup, monitoring, and any issues encountered. 

• Provide training to staff on the correct setup, use, and maintenance of the alternating pressure air mattress to ensure resident safety and comfort. 

• Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with this policy and address any gaps in practice or documentation. 

References: 

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). State Operations Manual (SOM), Appendix PP - Guidance to Surveyors for Long-Term Care Facilities. 

• CMS Requirements of Participation for Nursing Homes.