3
Device Information
Description of the Device
The system consists of a non-skid mattress base, a series of vented/foam filled air chambers, that
are encased in a foam cavity, and a low friction, anti-shear top cover. A viscoelastic comfort
layer foam topper is laminated to the top of the foam cavity and serves as the support surface
underneath the patient. The foam cavity also includes bolsters at the sides and ends of the
mattress, providing added patient stability and positioning. The system also includes a tapered
heel section that is designed to further reduce pressure for the sensitive heel area. The air cells
run laterally within the mattress. The optional air pump connects to the mattress at the patient
foot end.
CAUTION:
Use of the NP24, NP12, NP9 and NP4 is only one element of care in
the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers. Frequent repositioning, proper
care, routine skin assessment, wound treatment and proper nutrition are but a few
of the elements required in the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers. As
there are many factors that may influence the development of a pressure ulcer for
each individual, the ultimate responsibility in the prevention and treatment of
pressure ulcers is with the health care professional.
Purpose of the Device
The NP4, NP9, NP12 and the NP24 non-powered systems provide non-powered zoned pressure
redistribution or alternating pressure redistribution when utilizing a control unit. These systems
are used for the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers. The patient support surface fits any
standard hospital bed. The NP24 and NP12 consist of air cylinders that run laterally underneath
the entire body and are contained in a foam cavity. On top of the air cells is a viscoelastic foam
comfort layer laminated to a either a foam comfort layer. The heel section of the mattress is
tapered to further reduce pressure for the sensitive heel area. Both the air flotation system and the
foam top surface aid in pressure redistribution and in maintaining low interface pressures
throughout the surface. The optional alternating model comes with a quiet, energy-efficient
pump that provides a 10, 15, 20 or 25 minute cycle time designed to maintain low interface
pressures throughout the mattress, to redistribute peak interface pressures during the cycle and to
further relieve peak pressure points as the cycle alternates. The inflation levels are designed to
maintain low interface pressures throughout the mattress at all times. The surface is also
designed to be affective during treatment of pressure ulcers by preventing further tissue
breakdown.
The cover material is bacteriostatic, flame resistant, fluid proof, tear resistant, cleanable and
replaceable. Since the cover does not allow fluids to penetrate the surface, maintenance is
minimal. Clean and disinfect the outer surface using the cleaning protocol in this manual.
Indications for Use
The NP24, NP12, NP9 and NP4 are flotation therapy mattresses providing a pressure
management surface for the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers. The Alternating
Pressure mode provided with the APM pump is indicated for use as a preventive tool against
further complications associated with critically ill, or immobile, patients.
