Evaluating two dynamic mattresses in a nursing home setting.

A formal, ethically approved, prospective product evaluation was undertaken in a nursing home setting. The aim of the study was to generate patient-focused clinical outcome data in a 'real world' setting to support use of the dynamic Sidhil Plus (mattress replacement) and Solo (mattress overlay) for patients who were at an elevated risk of pressure ulcers. The primary outcome was for patients to remain free from additional pressure damage while the products were in use. Secondary outcomes of interest included patient and carer views of the product. The results reported here indicate that for this client group these 'low tech' products perform well. Of the 22 residents taking part, two developed pressure damage during the trial, however the position of the pressure damage indicated that the cause was most likely not the mattress.