6 Support Surfaces and Prevention Strategies
Learn how to select and reassess support surfaces as part of an individualized, coordinated plan to prevent pressure injuries.
How contribute
help redistribute pressure and reduce friction and shear. Some models also manage moisture and heat at the skin interface. They are one component of prevention, not a replacement for , skin checks, , or nutrition support.
Choose and reassess the mattress
For a person at risk of pressure injury, a is a recommended initial choice. Select a surface that fits the person and bed safely, taking account of body size, mobility, skin response, care goals, and the environment. Continue assessing the skin and tissue response to determine whether the surface is working.
No single advanced surface is necessary for every person at risk. Avoid excess linen because it could interfere with the surface’s function. Choose according to assessed needs rather than relying on a product label alone.
Match features to assessed needs
Match surface performance to the person’s specific needs. For example, consider when moisture is a concern, as well as shear reduction when it is relevant. A label such as “low air loss” alone is not enough to determine whether a surface is appropriate.
Frequent perspiration, limited mobility, or early skin changes call for consideration of risk, skin response, mobility, and moisture-management needs. If the skin response is not as expected, reconsider the surface and the wider prevention plan.
Coordinate repositioning and skin checks
A support surface does not remove the need for assisted position changes or skin checks. Help a person who cannot reposition independently to change position according to an individualized plan, and document repositioning. Review the frequency and effectiveness of repositioning as well as surface selection if skin changes develop.
Assess the skin regularly rather than waiting for pain or visible redness to prompt action. Do not keep a person in the same position until redness appears.
Address pressure during sitting
For a person at risk who spends several hours sitting, assess seating needs and select a suitable . Include regular pressure relief in the person’s plan and coordinate it with skin checks.
Do not massage or rub skin to prevent pressure injury. Consider heel pressure relief when indicated.
Coordinate the whole prevention plan
Build prevention around the person’s identified risks rather than relying on an advanced mattress alone. Combine an appropriate support surface with , regular , moisture protection, and assessment of nutrition and hydration needs.
Incontinence and poor food intake are examples of concerns that should be addressed in the plan. Seek appropriate nutrition or hydration support when assessment identifies a concern; supplements are not automatically needed when intake is adequate. Reassess the plan as the person’s condition or skin changes.