Alternating Pressure Mattress Systems — Southwest Florida & Nationwide
Alternating pressure mattress systems are powered therapy surfaces that cycle air between cells on a timed interval — continuously redistributing pressure across the body to reduce the risk of pressure injuries and improve circulation in patients with limited mobility. Unlike static foam or innerspring mattresses, alternating pressure systems actively work while the patient rests, providing the kind of continuous pressure relief that manual repositioning alone cannot achieve.
Medical Department Store carries a full range of alternating pressure overlay and full mattress replacement systems — from entry-level home care units to advanced dual-therapy systems combining alternating pressure with low air loss. Clinical specialists are on staff at all five Southwest Florida showroom locations to help match the right system to your patient's specific diagnosis, risk level, and care environment.
📞 866-218-0902 | ✉ support@medicaldepartmentstore.com
How Alternating Pressure Systems Work
An alternating pressure system consists of a pump unit connected to a mattress or overlay with multiple air cells arranged in alternating rows. The pump inflates and deflates these rows on a timed cycle — typically every 5 to 10 minutes — so that at any given moment, only half the cells are fully inflated. This means no single area of the body sustains continuous pressure for more than a few minutes at a time, which is the clinical mechanism that prevents and helps treat pressure injuries.
The key variables that distinguish systems in this category are cycle time, cell height, the number of cells, whether the system also provides low air loss therapy, and the weight capacity of the pump and mattress. Our team can walk you through these differences and identify the right configuration for your patient's situation in a single phone call.
Alternating Pressure Overlays vs. Full Mattress Replacements
Alternating Pressure Overlays
Overlays sit on top of an existing mattress and connect to a pump unit. They are a cost-effective entry point for patients who need active pressure redistribution but whose current mattress is otherwise adequate. Overlays are easier to set up, easier to move between beds, and typically less expensive than full replacement systems. They are best suited for patients at moderate risk where the existing mattress provides adequate base support.
Full Mattress Replacement Systems
Full replacement systems replace the existing mattress entirely, typically combining air cells with a foam base layer that provides backup support during power interruptions and reduces the risk of bottoming out. For higher-acuity patients spending most of the day in bed, a full replacement system provides more consistent therapy and a more clinically complete solution than an overlay alone.
Alternating Pressure + Low Air Loss Dual-Therapy Systems
The most advanced systems in this category combine alternating pressure therapy with continuous low air loss — managing both pressure redistribution and microclimate control in a single unit. Low air loss adds a continuous flow of air through the mattress surface that helps regulate temperature and moisture at the skin, addressing two of the most critical factors in pressure injury prevention and treatment simultaneously. These systems are indicated for patients with stage III or IV pressure injuries or conditions where moisture management is also a clinical priority. See our Low Air Loss Mattress Systems collection for the full range.
Who Needs an Alternating Pressure Mattress System?
Alternating pressure systems are clinically indicated for patients who meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Limited mobility — unable to reposition independently or requires caregiver assistance for all turns
- Spending the majority of the day in bed due to illness, surgery, or chronic condition
- Existing pressure injury at any stage — particularly stage II or higher
- History of pressure injuries or recurrent skin breakdown
- Conditions that impair circulation or sensation — including diabetes, vascular disease, or neurological conditions
- Fragile or compromised skin integrity due to age, medications, or nutritional status
If you are uncertain whether your patient has reached the threshold for a powered system, call us. Our team can help you evaluate based on the patient's specific situation — and we will tell you honestly if a non-powered therapeutic mattress is still appropriate. 866-218-0902
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between alternating pressure and low air loss?
Alternating pressure redistributes pressure by cycling air between cells on a timed interval — the primary mechanism for pressure injury prevention and treatment. Low air loss adds a continuous airflow through the mattress surface to manage heat and moisture at the skin — addressing microclimate control in addition to pressure. Dual-therapy systems provide both. Your patient's specific clinical needs determine which approach is appropriate — call us to discuss. 866-218-0902
Does Medicare cover an alternating pressure mattress system?
Medicare Part B may cover alternating pressure mattress systems with a qualifying diagnosis and physician documentation. Coverage depends on the specific system, the patient's diagnosis, and the HCPCS code. We handle Medicare billing directly — call us before purchasing and we will verify your coverage first. 866-218-0902 | support@medicaldepartmentstore.com
What happens if the power goes out?
Full mattress replacement systems with a foam base layer provide backup support during power interruptions — the foam base prevents bottoming out if the pump loses power temporarily. Overlay systems without a foam base offer less protection during outages. For Southwest Florida patients, this is an important consideration given hurricane season. Call us to discuss power outage planning for your specific system. 866-218-0902
Can I use an alternating pressure system at home?
Yes — most systems in this category are designed for home care use as well as facility use. The pump connects to standard household power, and most systems are quiet enough for overnight use. Setup is straightforward and our team can walk caregivers through the process in person at any of our five Southwest Florida locations or by phone.
Do you service alternating pressure systems you did not sell?
Yes — all brands, all models, regardless of where purchased, at all five Southwest Florida locations. Home service calls available for patients who cannot come in. 866-218-0902
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Clinical specialists on staff · Hands-on demonstrations · Medicare billing · Repairs for all brands · Nationwide shipping
📞 866-218-0902 | ✉ support@medicaldepartmentstore.com
Monday–Friday 9AM–5PM | Saturday 9AM–3PM | Nationwide shipping available
