Short Description
The MedexCare is a replacement alternating air mattress for patients at a high risk of decubitus ulcers. The power unit requires mains power for operation of the mattress. It comes in a standard or narrow width and has modular cells to assist with maintenance and cleaning.
More Details
Structure
The mattress has 19 air cells which inflate to 200mm (eight inches) in height. The cells between the shoulder and waist are ventilated to assist with air circulation and patient temperature management. Cells are modular in design. There is also a pillow function which has three cells that remain static over the head zone.
Cover
The cover is 100% nylon water resistant with a PU (polyurethane) backing and is removable. It has a two way stretch and is machine washable.
Attachment
The mattress is attached to the bed through a buckle which fastens around the bed frame.
Pump / Controls
The MedexCare power unit is a separate unit which requires mains power for operation. It attaches to the mattress by means of a coupling which is also quick release to assist with patient transfers. It has a micro processor and the pressure is set by entering the patients weight. The unit can be set for alternating or static mode and has its own internal pressure monitoring.
Safety Features
The power unit has visual and audible alarms to indicate a loss of pressure or power failure. It also has a CPR release tag for quick deflation in case of an emergency.
Considerations
All pressure reduction products must be monitored to prevent 'bottoming out'. This occurs when the user's weight bears down so hard on the product material that it is flattened and the bony parts are pressed against the surface below the cushion or mattress. Where bottoming out occurs even with correct use (eg correct inflation levels), a different product may need to be considered.
It is advisable that a health professional be consulted when considering a suitable pressure care product.
Maintenance
* Refer to the manufacturers instructions for detailed information about cleaning and maintenance.
* Mild detergent and water only should be used on the cover and mattress. The cover is machine washable in warm water but is not able to be tumble dried or dry cleaned.
Standards
Standards
Some assistive technology needs to meet Australian or other standards. Standards may relate to materials, manufacturing and installation. Products that meet Australian or international standards will have written certification. To find out if a product meets Australian Standards ask the supplier to show you the certificate. For more information about standards also see
www.ilcnsw.asn.au/home/assistive_technology/standards
TGA
Many of the items on the ILC NSW website are categorised as a Medical Device. Medical devices that are approved for use in Australia have been entered into a national database called the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), which is maintained by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). You can ask the supplier for the ARTG number for the device you wish to purchase and search the ARTG for the entry. To access information on the ARTG visit www.tga.gov.au
When buying a medical device it is advisable to only choose a medical device that is recommended by a healthcare professional and has been included on the ARTG.
Place Of Manufacture
Taiwan