Hospital beds often utilize specialized air support surfaces, such as alternating pressure mattresses or low air loss systems, which are designed to automatically inflate and deflate. These dynamic mattresses constantly change pressure distribution across the patient’s body to prevent skin breakdown. When a stable surface is needed for patient care or movement, this automatic, continuous movement can become a hindrance. Learning how to temporarily stop the inflation cycle provides the necessary stability for various procedures.
Understanding the Specialized Air Mattress Function
The primary purpose of these mattresses is to prevent pressure ulcers, commonly referred to as bedsores, which develop when prolonged pressure restricts blood flow. The alternating pressure system achieves this by cyclically inflating and deflating a series of internal air cells. Typically, half the cells inflate while the other half deflate, alternating every few minutes (ranging from 5 to 15 minutes) to redistribute the patient’s weight.
This automatic pressure relief eliminates the need for constant manual repositioning, improving blood circulation in vulnerable areas like the tailbone, hips, and heels. Low air loss features, often combined with the alternating cycle, push small volumes of air through tiny holes in the mattress cover. This manages the microclimate between the patient’s skin and the mattress, reducing heat and moisture that increase the risk of skin damage.
Activating Static Mode and Maximum Inflation
To halt the automatic inflation and deflation cycle, locate and activate the “Static Mode” function on the mattress control unit (pump), usually hanging at the foot of the bed. Static Mode, sometimes labeled “Hold” or “Constant Pressure,” stops the alternating cycle and maintains even pressure across all air cells, creating a firm and stable surface.
Activating this mode ensures the surface remains level and does not shift or sink while the patient is being moved or tended to. The pump holds the air cells at a uniform inflation level, often based on the patient’s pre-set weight. This stable surface is beneficial for procedures requiring patient immobilization, such as wound care or dressing changes.
Another temporary setting is “Maximum Inflation,” sometimes called “Fowler Boost” or “Max Firm.” This function fully inflates all air cells to their highest capacity, creating the firmest possible surface. This is useful for providing extra support when the patient is sitting up in the Fowler position or when preparing for a transfer.
Control panels often feature a “Lockout” button to prevent accidental changes. If the controls are unresponsive, the lockout feature may be engaged, usually indicated by a small light. To unlock the panel, press and hold the lock button for a few seconds until the indicator light changes. Once the desired mode is selected, the control panel can be relocked.
Safety Protocols for Patient Care and Transfers
Stopping the alternating function is necessary for specific scenarios requiring a stable surface. The most common use is during patient transfers, such as moving the individual from the bed to a wheelchair or stretcher. The stable surface created by Static Mode minimizes the risk of falls or injury that could occur if the mattress deflated unexpectedly.
The static setting is also necessary for routine care tasks, such as changing bed linens or providing physical therapy. For emergency situations, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), a stable, hard surface is immediately required for effective chest compressions. Many beds include a dedicated manual CPR release valve, often a brightly colored pull handle, which rapidly deflates the air mattress in seconds, providing a firm base.
Static Mode should only be used temporarily, not for extended periods. Leaving the bed in this mode defeats the mattress’s pressure relief function, increasing the risk of developing pressure ulcers. Once the transfer or care procedure is complete, the mattress must be immediately returned to its original Alternating Mode to ensure continuous pressure redistribution.