Choosing the Right Low Air Loss Mattress for Your Needs
Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure, usually over bony areas such as the heels, hips, and tailbone. They can also result from friction, shear, or moisture on the skin, making immobile or bedridden individuals particularly vulnerable. These ulcers range from Stage I (mild skin redness that does not blanch when pressed) to Stage III (full-thickness skin loss involving damage to the subcutaneous tissue), and can progress further to Stage IV if left untreated. Pressure ulcers not only cause discomfort and pain but also increase the risk of serious infections, reduce mobility, and can significantly impact overall quality of life. Managing and preventing pressure ulcers requires careful attention to skin care, repositioning, and especially support surfaces, and low air loss mattresses are an essential tool in this process. By redistributing pressure, improving blood flow, and keeping the skin dry, these specialized mattresses help reduce the risk of ulcer formation while promoting healing for existing wounds.
Understanding Low Air Loss Mattresses
Low-air-loss mattresses are designed to reduce pressure, enhance circulation, and manage moisture, making them a critical component in both the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers. They work by continuously circulating air through specialized air cells, which redistributes the patient’s weight evenly and minimizes prolonged pressure on vulnerable areas such as the heels, hips, shoulders, and tailbone.
These systems are especially helpful for individuals who are immobile, bedridden, recovering from surgery, or living with conditions that limit their ability to reposition on their own. By keeping the surface cool, dry, and well-ventilated, low-air-loss mattresses lower the risk of skin maceration, moisture buildup, and infection. This is particularly important for patients who already have fragile or compromised skin, since a stable environment supports faster healing and reduces complications.
Another benefit is improved microcirculation, which encourages blood flow to deeper tissues and supports the body’s natural repair process. For caregivers, these mattresses also lessen the need for frequent manual repositioning, which makes daily care more manageable without sacrificing patient comfort or safety.
Beyond the medical advantages, the gentle alternating airflow enhances comfort and can improve sleep quality and pain relief. By combining moisture management with consistent pressure redistribution, low-air-loss mattresses provide a supportive, healing environment that promotes long-term skin health and overall well-being.
Apex Medical Domus Series
The Apex Medical Domus series offers a comprehensive range of low air loss mattresses specifically engineered to meet the needs of patients across different levels of pressure ulcer risk. Each model in the series combines advanced technology with user-friendly design to provide optimal support, comfort, and protection. Whether a patient is at low risk, at moderate risk, or experiencing existing Stage I to III pressure ulcers, the Domus series provides solutions that effectively redistribute pressure, manage moisture, and enhance circulation.
Domus 1
The Domus 1 is ideal for patients at low risk of developing pressure ulcers or those who require preventive care during short-term recovery. Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to install and move between different care settings, which is especially useful for home caregivers or temporary medical use. The 2.5-inch bubble cells gently alternate pressure across the body to stimulate blood circulation and relieve stress on bony areas that are most vulnerable to skin breakdown. Although it is the most basic model in the Domus lineup, it still provides foundational low air loss support that helps keep the skin dry and protected.
This mattress is well-suited for individuals who are still somewhat mobile, can reposition themselves occasionally, or are recovering from surgery and need additional protection while healing. Because of its straightforward setup and quiet operation, the Domus 1 offers both convenience and comfort without overwhelming caregivers with complex controls or maintenance requirements. It is a practical and affordable solution for preventing early-stage pressure injuries before they progress into more serious conditions.
Domus 2
For patients at moderate risk of developing pressure ulcers, the Domus 2 offers an elevated level of protection compared to entry-level systems. It features a unique 1-in-2 alternating pressure system, meaning every other air cell inflates and deflates in cycles to provide more targeted relief to high-pressure areas. This dynamic redistribution of pressure helps promote blood flow, reduces the likelihood of prolonged compression on the skin, and supports overall tissue health.
Despite offering more advanced therapy, the Domus 2 is still lightweight and user-friendly, making it suitable for both home care and long-term care environments. Caregivers can easily install and maintain it without special training, and its durable construction ensures consistent airflow performance over extended periods. This model is particularly effective for individuals who are beginning to show early signs of skin damage or who already have Stage I or Stage II ulcers and need stronger preventive measures to avoid further deterioration.
The Domus 2 is also an excellent option for patients with reduced mobility who may not be able to reposition themselves frequently enough to relieve pressure naturally. By offering both comfort and therapeutic support, it helps slow or stop the progression of mild ulcers and provides an added layer of protection for patients who are at risk of developing more serious wounds.
Domus 3
The Domus 3 is tailored for high-risk patients or individuals who are already dealing with early to advanced-stage ulcers and require more intensive therapeutic care. This model features a 5-inch low air loss alternating pressure system that provides deeper immersion and better pressure redistribution than entry-level surfaces. By gently shifting the body’s contact points with each cycle, the mattress helps relieve sustained pressure on vulnerable skin tissue, promoting better circulation and oxygen delivery to damaged areas.
The integrated variable pressure pump allows caregivers to adjust firmness based on the patient’s comfort level, weight, and wound severity, making it a more customizable solution for long-term care. In addition to pressure relief, the Domus 3 also offers superior moisture control. The continuous airflow technology helps keep the skin cool and dry, reducing the buildup of heat and humidity that can contribute to maceration and delayed healing.
This mattress is particularly beneficial for patients with limited or no mobility who cannot reposition themselves independently. It supports healing for Stage II and Stage III pressure ulcers by creating an optimal microclimate for wound recovery and reducing the risk of skin breakdown in surrounding areas. With its enhanced durability and therapeutic performance, the Domus 3 provides a more advanced level of protection for patients with serious skin integrity concerns or ongoing wound care need.
How to Choose the Right Mattress
Choosing the right low air loss mattress is not just about comfort. It is a clinical decision that should take into account the patient’s skin condition, mobility, and daily care needs. Below are the key factors to consider when selecting the appropriate mattress from the Domus series:
1. Patient Risk Level
The first step is to determine how likely the patient is to develop pressure ulcers. Patients who are only at mild risk often require a basic alternating pressure system that helps promote healthy blood flow and prevents early-stage skin breakdown. These individuals may find the Domus 1 sufficient for daily use. However, patients at a higher risk of developing ulcers, such as those who remain in bed for most of the day or have limited ability to shift their weight, benefit more from advanced systems. The Domus 3 or Domus 4 provides additional therapeutic support and airflow for those who need more protection.
2. Existing Pressure Ulcers
The current stage of the ulcer is another important factor. For patients with Stage I or Stage II pressure ulcers, a moderate-level support surface like the Domus 2 can help relieve pressure and prevent the wound from getting worse. For individuals with Stage III ulcers or those with fragile or already compromised skin, higher-level models like the Domus 3 or Domus 4 are better suited because they manage both pressure and moisture, which are two major contributors to wound progression.
3. Mobility and Weight
A patient’s mobility affects how much relief they need from the mattress. Some individuals can adjust their position slightly throughout the day, which reduces the constant strain on one part of the body. Others, especially patients with limited physical strength or neurological conditions, rely completely on the mattress to relieve pressure. Weight capacity is also important. The mattress must be durable and firm enough to support the patient without losing its structure. Selecting the right size and weight capacity ensures the therapy is consistent and effective.
4. Ease of Use and Daily Care
Caregivers should also think about how easy the mattress is to set up, clean, and operate. A user-friendly pump, clear controls, and quick adjustments can make a significant difference in day-to-day care. Some models come with features such as quick-inflate technology, quiet operation for better sleep quality, and simple maintenance routines. This is especially valuable in home care environments where caregivers may not have access to the same equipment or staff support that a hospital offers.
5. Budget and Long-Term Value
When evaluating cost, it helps to look beyond the initial pricing and consider the long-term value. A more advanced mattress can help prevent hospital readmissions, reduce treatment costs, and protect the patient’s skin more effectively over time. The Domus series provides multiple options at different price levels, making it easier to find a solution that delivers both affordability and reliable clinical support. Choosing the right mattress early can also reduce the need for frequent upgrades later on.
Choose What’s Right For You
Choosing the right low air loss mattress is crucial for both preventing and treating pressure ulcers, especially for individuals who spend long periods in bed or have limited mobility. The Apex Medical Domus series provides a wide range of solutions tailored to different levels of risk, allowing caregivers to select a mattress that aligns with the patient’s current condition and long-term care needs. By choosing the appropriate model, patients benefit from consistent pressure relief, better circulation, and improved skin integrity.
Selecting the correct support surface also helps reduce the likelihood of ulcer progression, lowers the risk of infection, and minimizes discomfort caused by constant pressure on sensitive areas. For caregivers, the right mattress makes daily care easier and more effective by supporting proper positioning, reducing the need for frequent manual repositioning, and promoting a cleaner and drier skin environment.
Ultimately, matching the mattress to the patient’s individual needs not only enhances comfort and safety but also plays a major role in overall wound healing. With the Apex Medical Domus series, patients can receive targeted therapy that supports recovery, restores quality of life, and prevents complications before they begin.
References
Apex Medical Domus Series
- Domus 3-8″ Low Air Loss Alternating Pressure Mattress on Amazon
- Domus Series Catalog (PDF)
- Domus 3 Product Page on Key Way Medical
Clinical Guidelines & Evidence
- Clinical Guideline: Pressure-Reducing Support Surfaces (PDF)
- Beds, Overlays, and Mattresses for Preventing and Treating Pressure Ulcers
- Alternating Pressure (Active) Air Surfaces for Preventing Pressure Ulcers
Medicare & Coverage Information
