What makes hospital bed mattresses unique?

Hospital bed mattresses are designed to meet the special needs of the elderly and handicapped who are confined to a hospital bed at home or in a medical facility. Just like hospital beds can change positions to contour to your body in a variety of sitting or reclining positions, so must hospital bed mattresses. In addition, these mattresses help prevent bed sores and are easier to clean and sanitize. 

How do I know what kind of hospital bed mattress is best for me?

Before you can answer that question, answer these:

• How much time per day will the patient be spending in bed?
• Can the patient shift positions independently?
• How many months will they need to use a hospital bed?
• How much does the patient weigh?
• How much muscle mass do they have?

When you have those answers, you’re ready to make a selection because each mattress type was designed to meet each need.

To make it easy for you to know which mattress does what, we have assigned our mattresses to a "Level":

• Level 1: Those who spend minimal or temporary time in the hospital bed;
• Level 2: Those who spend at least 12 hours per every 24 hour cycle in the hospital bed;
• Level 3: Those for heavier patients and/or confined to the hospital bed for most of every 24 hour cycle;
• Level 4: Air mattress with pump for those confined to the bed and/or highly susceptible to bed sores. 

Here are your hospital bed mattress categories: 

Innerspring Mattresses

LEVEL 1

Innerspring mattresses are your low-cost option. They the best choice for patients who can roll over on their own, are not significantly over or underweight, and do not spend a significant amount of time in bed.

We carry anti-bacterial and water-resistant innerspring mattresses.

Foam Mattresses

LEVEL 1, 2 OR 3

Foam mattresses range from a single layer, level 1 mattress up to multi-layered and multi-density level 3 mattresses. A very good foam mattress will redistribute body pressure points to prevent bed sores. 

Multi-layer mattresses are best for those who spend most of their time in bed, or who cannot shift position independently. The Protekt 500 mattress, Invacare Premier mattresses, and Drive Gravity 9 and Multi-Ply 6500 mattresses are some examples of high quality, multi-layered foam mattresses we sell that are made to help prevent bed sores based on their construction.

Air Mattresses

LEVEL 4

Air mattresses are your best choice for comfort. This type of hospital bed mattress is best for those who spend most of their time in bed, who cannot shift position independently, and who want or need the optimum in comfort.

Alternating Pressure, Low Air Loss and Lateral Rotation (turning) or lateral rotating air mattresses are designed to aid in the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers (also called bed sores) and are perfect for hospital beds.

Mattress Overlays

Alternating pressure pads and gel foam mattress overlays are a less expensive alternative to air mattresses and lay on top an existing hospital bed mattress, most typically a level 1 mattress.  Some people ask if it's a smart idea to get an overlay if they have a level 2 mattress when their condition has changed and is in bed more. Our answer is, it could help, but we recommend moving up to a Level 3 or 4 mattress instead. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a regular mattress work with a hospital bed?

Regular mattresses do not work with adjustable or hospital beds because they must contour with the positions the hospital bed can take. Additionally, hospital bed mattresses are better designed to prevent bed sores and they are much easier to clean. 

How can I make a hospital bed more comfortable? 

The mattress is key. Air mattresses are the best for those who are confined to the bed, especially if it's going to be a long-term stay for many months or years. Foam mattresses are built for comfort as well and come with a lower price point. Mattress toppers add a layer for added comfort and are a less expensive option to air and foam mattresses. What you need really depends on how many months you'll be in a hospital bed, your weight, your ability to turn yourself, and how many hours a day you will staying in bed. 

Does Medicare pay for a hospital bed mattress?

Medicare Part B covers much of the cost of medically necessary mattresses and beds. If a doctor and Medicare decide that it is medically necessary for you to have a specific mattress or bed, they will consider it durable medical equipment (DME).

How often does the mattress need to be replaced?

The American Hospital Association states that the life of the mattress is 5 years, but mattress manufacturers maintain that it is only 1 to 3 years. Medicare will not replace the mattress before 5 years.

Do regular sheets fit a hospital bed mattress?

Hospital beds are usually 36 inches by 80 inches, so a special type of bedsheet is usually needed.

Not sure which is best? We're here in live chat to answer questions
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