Finite Element Analysis and Empirical Analysis of a Cost-effective Pressure Ulcer-Preventing Mattress

Abstract

Pressure relief mattresses are recommended to prevent pressure ulcers (PU). Passive mattresses offer a cost advantage over dynamic mattresses. This study evaluates a new passive PU-preventing mattress. Finite element analysis was used to determine the curved surface design of a mushroom-shaped support. A novel mattress evaluation platform was developed integrating a pressure mapping sensor, laser doppler flowmetry (LDF) and precise temperature sensors to validate the effectiveness of the new passive mattress. Compared with standard hospital mattresses, the new passive mattress was found to provide a more even body pressure distribution (relative disparity of -0.7%) and better assisted subcutaneous blood flow (relative disparity of 18.78%). Experimental results demonstrated that the new passive mattress can provide an effective and economical solution for preventing PU.

Keywords

• Pressure ulcers
• Pressure relief mattress
• Interface pressure
• Subcutaneous blood flow