foam overlay

Introduction

At least 4 inches thick. Decreases healing time of pressure ulcers.

Advantages

• inexpensive

Disadvantages

• bottoming out: when mattress is compressed to < 1 inch, pressure-relieving properties are reduced

Notes

• generally mattress of choice for patient at risk, but who has not yet developed pressure ulcers

More general terms

• support-surface (mattress, bed)