General
In both the Supine and Prone positions, patients should be positioned on the mattress
so that the shoulders are in line with the Shoulder Support (4th) cell.
It is important for the optimal use of the system that patients are positioned
correctly on the mattress.
Supine Position
Shoulder Support Cell (4)
Head Section Cells
(1 - 3) Alternating
Supine Position (face up)
Make sure the Vent Valves on the three Head Section cells are closed so that the cells
are fully inflated to support the head.
In Dynamic mode, all 20 mattress cells, including the Head Section cells, alternate
on a 10-minute cycle. This affords protection to all vulnerable areas including the
occiput (back of the head).
Rarely, some patients prefer not to have gentle cell alternation beneath the
head; this can be resolved by placing a thin pillow underneath the head.
Head Section Deflate: Supine Position
• When the patient is in the supine position, the Head Section cells can be deflated
to enable:
• Neck extension (e.g. for emergency procedures or cannulation).
• Access to the head (e.g. hygiene or wound care).
• The action should be supervised by a competent clinician.
• Always support the neck before and during Vent Valve operation.
• Open the Vent Valves on the three Head Section cells so that up to three of the
cells are fully deflated.
• Never leave the patient unattended.
• If the head cells are to remain deflated ensure adequate support of the head and
shoulders and provide other methods of routine pressure redistribution.
The Shoulder Support (4th) cell will continue to alternate.
(Alternating)
Prone Position
Shoulder Support Cell (4)
Head Section Cells
(1 - 3) Fully Deflated
19
(Alternating)