Navigating the Australian Market for Hospital Pressure Relief Devices

In hospitals, the prevention and management of pressure injuries are top priorities for patients under extended care. As the ageing Australian population increases and the demand for high-quality patient care increases, pressure relief devices have become essential equipment in hospitals, aged care facilities, and rehabilitation centres.

These specialised mattresses enhance patient comfort and play a critical role in clinical outcomes and staff efficiency.

Why Pressure Relief Devices Matter

Pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores, occur when extended pressure on the skin restricts blood flow, leading to tissue damage. They are particularly prevalent among immobile, elderly, or recovering from surgery patients. In Australia, pressure injuries are considered a key indicator of care quality and are closely monitored under national safety and quality standards.

Pressure relief devices are designed to redistribute pressure, reduce shear and friction, and manage skin moisture. Their use is clinically proven to reduce the incidence of pressure injuries, resulting in shortened hospital stays and improved patient outcomes.

Clinical Applications

These mattresses are used across a wide range of clinical settings, including:

• Palliative care provides comfort and dignity in end-of-life care
• Acute care wards for post-operative and immobile patients
• Intensive care units (ICUs) where patients may be sedated or ventilated

For Patients:

• Enhanced Comfort: Adjustable settings to suit the most complex patient requirements.
• Skin Protection: Options of continuous low pressure, alternating, alternating low pressure on a 4-way stretch fabric with low friction and a high moisture vapor transmission rate MVTR.
• Faster Recovery: Improved circulation and reduced pressure points support healing.

For Clinical Staff:

• Ease of Use: Plug-in, set, forget or program to meet patient comfort needs.
• Infection Control: Waterproof, vapour-permeable covers are easy to clean and disinfect.
• Patient Handling Support: Lateral rotation and auto-firm modes assist with turning and transferring patients, allowing for patient care to be successfully managed.

Types of Pressure Relief Mattresses

1. Alternating - Alternating pressure mattresses (APMs) are designed to cyclically inflate and deflate air cells within the mattress at set intervals, typically every 10 to 15 minutes. This creates a dynamic surface that regularly changes pressure points on the patient's body.
   
   
2. Alternating low pressure - This type combines the principles of alternating pressure technology with a lower baseline pressure within the air cells. The mattress continuously maintains a lower pressure even during inflation phases, making it gentler on the skin and underlying tissues.
   
   
3. Continuous low pressure - Also known as low-air-loss or constant-low-pressure systems, these mattresses provide a steady, low-level pressure across the entire surface without alternating cycles. The mattress slowly adjusts to body movements to evenly distribute weight.
   
   
4. Lateral rotation - Lateral rotation mattresses are specialised systems that slowly and automatically rotate the patient from side to side, simulating manual repositioning. This mimics the turning schedule that clinical staff typically follow.
   
   
5. Hybrid - Hybrid mattresses combine features of both static foam or gel and dynamic air systems, offering a flexible solution that can be used with or without an electric pump. They typically have a foam core and air cells or channels.
   
   

Wellell Pressure Relief Mattresses

Wellell has become a trusted name in pressure-relieving devices, offering a comprehensive range of pressure relief surfaces tailored to different clinical needs. Their products are highly regarded for their clinical reliability, user-friendly interfaces, and robust infection control features.

The range includes:

Pro-care Auto Bariatric

Supports patients up to 450 kg with alternating mode, continuous low pressure and alternating low pressure. Rectangular air cells enhance pressure redistribution and comfort. Dual compressors ensure quiet operation. It is ideal for bariatric care in hospitals, suited to most common bariatric beds in the market.

Pro-care Auto

A versatile alternating low-air-loss and continuous low-pressure mattress system with automatic weight sensing and multi-mode therapy. Offers alternating, static, and max firm settings to suit patient needs. Designed for high-risk patients, it enhances skin protection, comfort, and caregiver efficiency in acute and long-term care environments.

The Qubicell design offers a greater surface area to support the buttock region and the last five Qubicells and at the foot end of the bed is the heel zone, preventing heel pressure injuries. The pump design has been engineered to reduce noise output.

It is extremely quiet in operation, ensuring patient rest is optimised. Should the patient need to be transferred, the mattress can be set to Transport Mode, which provides continued pressure relief and support during patient transport for up to 12 hours.

Image: Pro-care Auto Bariatric Mattress

Optima Prone

Specialised for prone-position therapy, this mattress supports respiratory care and pressure injury prevention. It is ideal for ICU patients requiring extended prone positioning and pulmonary therapy. All cells can be individually deflated or inflated if needed to target a particular area on the patient's body.

Image: Pro-care Auto 2000mm Mattress; Optima Prone/8" Mattress

Optima Turn

Suitable for patients requiring minimal disturbances and situations when facilities have reduced staffing. The Optima Turn automates lateral rotation up to 30° to reduce manual handling and improve pressure relief. Combines alternating pressure therapy with heel protection and moisture control. Ideal for immobile, palliative and rehabilitation areas, enhancing safety and comfort effortlessly.

Pro-care Bariatric and Paediatric Models

Specialised mattresses for bariatric and paediatric patients. Bariatric models support up to 454 kg with reinforced cells, while paediatric versions offer gentle pressure relief for smaller bodies. Both include alternating pressure and low-air-loss therapy for tailored care.

What Hospitals Should Consider

When selecting pressure relief devices, hospitals must weigh several factors:

• Patient Risk Profiles: Match the mattress type to the patient's mobility and skin integrity risk.
• Ease of Cleaning: Ensure materials meet infection control requirements.
• Durability and Warranty: Look for long-term value and manufacturer support.
• Compatibility: Ensure the mattress integrates with existing bed frames and equipment.
• Training and Support: Choose suppliers that offer staff training and responsive technical support.
• Budget Constraints: Balance upfront costs with long-term clinical and operational benefits.
  
  

Final Thoughts

As pressure injury prevention becomes increasingly central to patient safety and quality care, the need for pressure relief devices in Australian hospitals continues to grow. Brands like Wellell lead the way with innovative, evidence-based solutions supporting patients and healthcare professionals.

Whether you're upgrading equipment in a metropolitan hospital or selecting mattresses for regional facilities, investing in the right pressure care system is a decision that pays dividends in patient outcomes, staff wellbeing, and overall care quality.

For more information on Wellell Mattress, please contact Midmed.