11
HAND CHECK TEST
Test the mattress’s function with a simple hand check.
To ensure that the mattress is providing the right therapeutic function, a simple hand check is
performed. The test should be performed each time a mattress is taken into operation in order to
detect any problems with the mattress’s air pressure. The test ensures that the patient does not
“bottom out”.
How the hand check is performed.
The hand check should always be performed when the patient is positioned on the mattress.
It is important to ask the patient not to try and lift their body during the test and to stay lying as
usual. It is not uncommon for patients to lift their body in the belief that it is easier for the staff,
but it may give an incorrect test result.
• Fold away the sheets and unzip the mattress cover to access the cells.
• Put one hand between two cells with the patient lying on the mattress.
(See illustration)
.
Depending on the size of the hand, it may sometimes be sufficient to use 2-3 finger height.
• Ensure that when the hand is in position, it fits between the bed base and the patient.
The important conclusion of the check is that there is space between the patient and the
bed base.
If the hand check shows that the patient is “bottoming out”.
If the patient is “bottoming out” and no alarm has triggered on the pump, the comfort level
should be raised
(position B on page 14)
. If it is already set to maximum and the patient does
not weigh more than the recommended maximum weight, then the mattress and pump need
troubleshooting by authorised personnel (see page 12).
