General Questions and Answers
Here we answer general questions about our products.
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General Product Questions
We answer your questions about all general information related to our products and their associated services. This ensures that both you and we can be confident that our products maximize their benefits for both patients and caregivers.
Can Care of Sweden’s products be used even after their technical lifespan has passed?
When the product has reached its technical lifespan, our recommendation is that it undergoes servicing/replacement. Servicing and maintenance should always be carried out by Care of Sweden or one of our authorized technicians. Only use spare parts approved by Care of Sweden.”
When should one use a alternating pressure mattress system versus one with constant low pressure?
Mattress systems with constant low pressure primarily function in pressure redistribution and eliminating high peak pressures, reducing the risk of cell deformation. These systems are mostly used by patients with a certain level of mobility and an increased risk of pressure ulcers/injuries and/or existing pressure ulcers/injuries. Mattress systems with constant low pressure often make it easy to get in and out of bed, and the comfort level is typically perceived as high. The preventive and therapeutic effects in these systems are often significant. For example, this was observed in the study:
Mattress systems with alternating pressure (known as dynamic mattresses) primarily function in tissue perfusion, stimulating the tissue to avoid ischemia (tissue oxygen deficiency). Since there is currently no research to assess whether a patient is at risk of developing pressure ulcers/injuries due to ischemia or cell deformation, there is a need to address both of these factors to ensure patient safety. Therefore, Care of Sweden’s alternating pressure mattress systems are equipped with either Pulsating Mode or Gentle Alternating Low pressure, aiming to ensure tissue perfusion while also eliminating peak pressures through good pressure redistributive properties. This yields high values in terms of health economics, clinical function, and lifecycle cost. The clinical effectiveness of these systems has been proven in clinical studies, [link to the Pulsation study]. Dynamic mattress systems are mostly used by patients with reduced mobility and an increased risk of pressure ulcers/injuries and/or existing pressure ulcers/injuries.
Mattress systems with alternating pressure (known as dynamic mattresses) primarily function in tissue perfusion, stimulating the tissue to avoid ischemia (tissue oxygen deficiency). Since there is currently no research to assess whether a patient is at risk of developing pressure ulcers/injuries due to ischemia or cell deformation, there is a need to address both of these factors to ensure patient safety. Therefore, Care of Sweden’s alternating pressure mattress systems are equipped with either Pulsating Mode or Gentle Alternating Low pressure, aiming to ensure tissue perfusion while also eliminating peak pressures through good pressure redistributive properties. This yields high values in terms of health economics, clinical function, and lifecycle cost. The clinical effectiveness of these systems has been proven in clinical studies, [link to the Pulsation study]. Dynamic mattress systems are mostly used by patients with reduced mobility and an increased risk of pressure ulcers/injuries and/or existing pressure ulcers/injuries.
HOW SHOULD I THINK ABOUT BEDDING?
Never make the bed with more layers than necessary. More layers between the skin and the support surface can impair the pressure-relieving properties of the support surface. Therefore, always adjust the bedding based on the patient’s condition and general health. Learn more about it here!
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WHEN SHOULD I CONDUCT A MATTRESS AUDIT?
We recommend conducting a mattress audit regularly from a health economic and hygienic perspective. More information on how to conduct a mattress audit can be found here.
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Can a person with a plastic allergy use our support surfaces?
No, it is not something we recommend. There are many different plastic materials, and both the foam and hygiene covers contain plastic.
Do our support surfaces contain latex?
No, our support surfaces do not contain latex.
How should Care of Sweden’s extension parts be used?
Optimal Extension Part is used to extend the support surface so that it fits the bed. If the mattress cover has handles or straps on the short side, the extension part can be attached to these with the velcro. If the cover has nothing to attach to, place the extension part so that it is held in place between the support surface and the headboard. Make the bed with sheets for increased comfort. The extension part should be placed at the head end. The extension parts are available in heights of 11 cm (used for support surfaces 10-12 cm high), 14 cm (used for support surfaces 13-15 cm high), and 20 cm (used for support surfaces 19-21 cm high).
How long does it take to deflate the air from the air mattress systems?
Generally, the time depends on both the size of the support surface and the air pressure in the support surface when deflation begins. By using the system’s CPR function, CPR can be started immediately.
CuroCell A4 and CuroCell IQ are equipped with the Pack n Go function, which offers automatic deflation. This process takes approximately 20 minutes from the activation of the function. Pack n Go facilitates the work of a caregiver by eliminating the need to lie on used support surfaces and manually press out the air. This is particularly advantageous from a hygienic perspective as it significantly reduces the risk of infection spread.
CuroCell A4 and CuroCell IQ are equipped with the Pack n Go function, which offers automatic deflation. This process takes approximately 20 minutes from the activation of the function. Pack n Go facilitates the work of a caregiver by eliminating the need to lie on used support surfaces and manually press out the air. This is particularly advantageous from a hygienic perspective as it significantly reduces the risk of infection spread.
There are different types of automated systems on the market today; what is the difference between them?
The segment of automatic mattress systems can be divided into three different categories:
Category 1 – Automatic mattress systems requiring some manual adjustment:
In these systems, a caregiver or a relative sets the internal pressure of the support surface based on the user’s weight, which is done through manual adjustment on the pump. The internal pressure of the support surface is then automatically set according to this adjustment. These systems usually have a so-called sitting function that is handled manually. If the bed is adjusted to a sitting position, healthcare personnel or a relative must adjust the internal pressure of the support surface either through a specific sitting function button or the comfort mode on the pump. Example: CuroCell AUTO4
Category 2 – Automatic mattress systems without manual adjustments but with the same internal pressure for all patients:
Functionally similar to Category 1, these systems do not have any manual adjustments available. When the position of the support surface is adjusted, the internal pressure will be regulated but always to a preset value. These systems therefore do not offer individual customization and assume that all patients can use the same internal pressure.
Care of Sweden has previously provided the above types of products, which are now phased out of the range. The reason for this is that these products do not align with the company’s policy regarding sustainability, technical lifespan, and total cost impact. They also do not meet the patient safety and clinical functionality that the company aims to represent.
Category 3 – Autonomous mattress systems:
Example: CuroCell A4, CuroCell iQ, CuroCell iA AutomaticThese systems are developed with a AI-driven algorithm (code designed to act in various ways based on needs and adapt to different patients) that adjusts the pressure in the air cells individually based on the patient’s height, weight, and position. This eliminates the need for manual adjustments. If the patient changes position in the bed, the system detects this and autonomously adjusts the settings according to the new position.
Category 1 – Automatic mattress systems requiring some manual adjustment:
In these systems, a caregiver or a relative sets the internal pressure of the support surface based on the user’s weight, which is done through manual adjustment on the pump. The internal pressure of the support surface is then automatically set according to this adjustment. These systems usually have a so-called sitting function that is handled manually. If the bed is adjusted to a sitting position, healthcare personnel or a relative must adjust the internal pressure of the support surface either through a specific sitting function button or the comfort mode on the pump. Example: CuroCell AUTO4
Category 2 – Automatic mattress systems without manual adjustments but with the same internal pressure for all patients:
Functionally similar to Category 1, these systems do not have any manual adjustments available. When the position of the support surface is adjusted, the internal pressure will be regulated but always to a preset value. These systems therefore do not offer individual customization and assume that all patients can use the same internal pressure.
Care of Sweden has previously provided the above types of products, which are now phased out of the range. The reason for this is that these products do not align with the company’s policy regarding sustainability, technical lifespan, and total cost impact. They also do not meet the patient safety and clinical functionality that the company aims to represent.
Category 3 – Autonomous mattress systems:
Example: CuroCell A4, CuroCell iQ, CuroCell iA AutomaticThese systems are developed with a AI-driven algorithm (code designed to act in various ways based on needs and adapt to different patients) that adjusts the pressure in the air cells individually based on the patient’s height, weight, and position. This eliminates the need for manual adjustments. If the patient changes position in the bed, the system detects this and autonomously adjusts the settings according to the new position.
Can I use sheets with an air mattress, or does it disrupt the support surface’s function?
Yes, bed sheets can be used with all mattresses in Care of Swedens product range.
Can multiple layers of sheets, such as slide sheets, affect the pressure relief provided by the mattress?
Adding multiple layers can negatively affect the pressure relieving function of the mattress. We recommend that local procedures are followed, and that it is ensured that the bedding material does not have a negative impact on the clinical function of the mattress.
Choice of support surface
We answer your questions about all general information related to selecting a support surface.
What is the difference between a replacement mattress and a overlay mattress?
A replacement mattress can be placed directly on the bed base. An overlay mattress, for the safety of the care recipient, requires an underlying support surface with our recommendation of 6cm height.
Why is the size of the support surface important?
For the patient’s safety and to reduce the risk of pinch injuries, the size of the support surface should be adjusted according to the bed manufacturer’s recommendations. The same recommendation applies to both air and foam mattresses.
When is it appropriate to use a foam mattress compared to an air mattress?
The choice of support surface should be based on a comprehensive and carefully conducted risk assessment that takes into account the patient’s individual needs and health condition. Foam mattresses are often used as an aid where the patient has a certain level of mobility and an increased risk of pressure ulcers/injuries and/or existing pressure ulcers/injuries up to and including category 2. Air mattresses with constant low pressure are often used as an aid where the patient has a certain level of mobility and an increased risk of pressure ulcers/injuries and/or existing pressure ulcers/injuries up to and including category 3-4. Air mattresses with alternating pressure are often used as an aid where the patient has reduced mobility and an increased risk of pressure ulcers/injuries and/or existing pressure ulcers/injuries up to and including category 4.
How do I know which support surface to choose?
The choice of support surface should be based on a comprehensive and carefully conducted risk assessment that takes into account the patient’s individual needs and health condition. We provide various training sessions to share the latest research and offer knowledge on pressure ulcer assessment, risk factors, and preventive measures.
How should I think about the railing height?
The primary reason for using bed rails is to prevent and reduce the risk of falls and injury. The purpose may also be to provide support, facilitate getting up, or activate the patient. To ensure patient safety, the recommendation is that the distance between the unmade surface to the top edge of the railing is at least 22 cm. If the railing height is below the recommended 22 cm and the railing is used, a railing extension should be obtained. Because of this, it is always advantageous to choose support surfaces with a low bed height (such as CuroCell CX15)
How should one consider the choice between an overlay mattress and a replacement mattress?
The choice between an overlay mattress and a replacement mattress is based on the patient’s individual needs and the surrounding environment. Preferences for different types of support surfaces vary among different care settings and markets. In home environments, an overlay mattress is most commonly used, placed on top of the patient’s existing bed. In environments where hospital beds are available, it is common to use a replacement mattress. However, there are exceptions, such as when it is decided to provide a hospital bed in the home.
Covers
Here we answer questions about our product covers. For more information, please refer to our product sheets.
What does it mean that the covers are Oeko-Tex certified?
All our covers are Oeko-Tex 100 certified, which means they have undergone extensive testing to ensure they do not contain harmful substances, such as chemicals and heavy metals, that could be detrimental to human health. The certification involves regular inspection and monitoring to ensure that the high standards are maintained.
Are the covers waterproof?
Yes, all the covers offered are waterproof with a built-in liquid barrier.
What features does the Olivia cover have?
The Olivia cover is made of polyester with a PU coating. The cover is waterproof while also being vapor-permeable to transport any moisture and vapor away from the cover.
What features does the Steel cover have?
The Steel cover is made of elastic and durable polyamide. It features welded seams and is waterproof while also being vapor-permeable to transport any moisture and vapor away from the cover.
What features does the Stone cover have?
The Stone cover is made of elastic and durable polyamide. It features welded seams and is waterproof while also being vapor-permeable to transport any moisture and vapor away from the cover.
Are the covers flame retardant?
All the covers we offer have flame retardant properties and are tested according to international standards EN ISO 597-1 and EN ISO 597-2.
How often should a cover be replaced?
There are no recommended intervals for replacing covers; instead, replacement should occur when visible damage (tears, holes, etc.) is present or if anything has occurred that affects the cover’s function or the support surface’s intended use.
Logistics and Transport
Get your questions about logistics and transport answered. For other inquiries related to logistics and transport:
How long can foam mattresses be stored rolled up/compressed?
We recommend storing the mattress rolled and compressed for a maximum of 3 months. The mattress should be unpacked (laid flat) for about 2 hours before use. It may take up to 1 week for it to fully regain its length, width, and height. However, the mattress can be used immediately after unpacking if necessary.
Service and Maintenance
Get your questions about service and maintenance answered.
How are individual cells replaced in an air mattress with interchangeable cells?
If individual cells need to be replaced, the cells are unbuttoned where buttons are present. The T-connector (attached to the hose set) is disconnected from the valve in the cell to be replaced. Then, the cell is loose. Now, attach the new cell by connecting the T-connector from the hose set to the valve in the new cell and then button up the buttons. If the mattress is equipped with a separate heel section that needs to be replaced, it is replaced by unbuttoning the section from the rest of the mattress, disconnecting the T-connector, and replacing it with the new heel section.
Product-Specific Questions
CuroCell® IQ
CuroCell® A4
Optimal® 5zon
CuroCell® AREA Zone
CuroCell® S.A.M PRO
