A change for the better? Measuring improvements in upgraded alternating-pressure air mattresses.

This study used measurements of interface pressure over time (the pressure relief index) to investigate improvements made to two alternating-pressure air mattresses. Two older models, the Nimbus 2 (Huntleigh Technology) and Pegasus Airwave (Pegasus Egerton), were compared with two new versions, the Nimbus 3 and Cairwave systems, respectively. Pressure relief was improved in seven out of 12 areas in the Nimbus 3 system, and in four out of 12 areas in the Cairwave. Significant differences in pressure relief index measurements at the heel between the Nimbus 3 and Cairwave products may explain the former's better clinical outcomes in this area, but superior pressure relief index performance at the sacrum did not predict better clinical outcomes. Therefore, different levels of pressure relief may be needed at different body sites. Individual practitioners must decide whether these improvements merit list price increases of 11% and 15%, respectively, and whether other features justify a 20% price difference between the two new systems.