Forté Airmonte A5000 Overlay Alternating Air System

ACTIVE AIR THERAPY

Active Air Therapy changes the load distribution properties of a support surface with or without load by a powered air pump. Power is used to alter the immersion and envelopment characteristics of the surface, control the microclimate, and/or periodically redistribute the pressure.

Alternating powered air mattress systems work by sequentially altering the parts of the body that bear the load and so reduce the duration of loading on the tissue at any given anatomic location.

This is especially required for patients with limited or no mobility. There is good evidence that a support surface with active air therapy or an alternating pressure mattress is superior to a standard hospital mattress (static foam mattress). Some evidence suggests that existing pressure injuries may have fast healing rates on a support surface with active air therapy.

OVERLAY OR A FULL REPLACEMENT AIR SYSTEM?

The definition of an overlay, according to the Prevention and Treatment of Pressure Injuries: Clinical Practice Guideline, The International Guideline 2019, is an additional support surface designed to be placed directly on top of an existing surface. Overlays are thinner than full replacement systems – typically 5-inch / 125mm. Overlays are used to provide additional pressure relief to the existing surface.

Evidence generally suggests that full replacement systems and overlays have similar efficacy in terms of reducing pressure injury incidence.

Overlays can be quick and easy to fit as they dint require the existing mattress to be removed and stored elsewhere.

For individuals who have some independent mobility or can transfer in and out of bed, an overlay, which is thinner and less enveloping, may allow some additional mobility whilst providing adequate pressure leave. A full mattress replacement can be difficult to move around on ad can therefore limit the individual’s ability to move around the bed and get in/out of the bed.

Overlays are often used as an alternative to a full replacement system when budget and cost is a concern. However, Nixon et al (2006) identified that overlays could be more expensive than mattress replacements when overall costs were considered.

Safety can be a concern with overlays as they must be used with an underlay/static mattress. As such, there is a risk that:

a) if it is not used with an underlay and therefore poses a risk of bottoming out, and

b) if not secured properly to underlay with straps the overlay could slip off the bed putting the individual at risk of falls.

c) raising the overall height of the bed will make getting in and out of the bed more difficult, or cause safety issues if bed rails are in use.

QUIET, SIMPLE PUMP SYSTEM

The standard pump unit supplied with the Airmonte A5 overlay has been designed with patient and staff compliance in mind. The pump is almost silent and with minimal vibration – below 40 decibels (dB) at one meter. The pump is simple and easy to use – with a pressure/weight gauge, static/alternating option, on/off, and power alerts which means the system requires minimum staff training to be used effectively.

The Airmonte A5 overlay is supplied as standard with the same pump system as the Zephair Gentle Critical Care Air Mattress System.

UNIQUE CELL CONSTRUCTION

The Airmonte A5 has been designed with 24 alternating air cells manufactured out of strengthened flexible nylon with TPU backing.

An increased amount of air cells in an alternating air mattress brings with it many benefits including:

• Each cell is narrower and therefore cell movement is less disturbing to a patient
• Provides excellent comfort
• Effective pressure relief

Nylon/TPU cell materials maintain mattress integrity for longevity and consistency of patient care.

The Airmonte A5 Air system is lightweight making it easy to set up, store, and transport.

Sizes and Availability

A5000 - Stocked - Single

A5S1000AC - Made to Order - Single

A5S1000PC - Made to Order - Single

A5S1000PU - Made to Order - Single

A5KS1000AC - Made to Order - King Single

A5KS1000PC - Made to Order - King Single

A5KS1000PU - Made to Order - King Single