How to use a vacuum mattress?

The vacuum mattress is an essential device for safely immobilizing and transferring patients, particularly those with suspected spinal injuries.

How to Use a Vacuum Mattress: A Step-by-Step Guide

Using a vacuum mattress involves a systematic process to ensure patient safety and effective immobilization. This medical device, when properly applied, conforms to the patient's body shape, providing stable support during transport.

Step-by-Step Application of a Vacuum Mattress

The application process emphasizes careful patient handling and precise mattress manipulation.

1. Patient Transfer onto the Mattress:

   • Preparation: Ensure the vacuum mattress is laid out flat on a stable surface, ready to receive the patient.
   • Transfer: Utilizing a Scoop stretcher or similar patient transfer device, carefully lift the patient off the bed or ground. The key is to maintain spinal alignment throughout this process.
   • Placement: Gently place the patient onto the center of the vacuum mattress. Position them so their body is fully supported by the mattress, from head to toe.

2. Securing and Shaping the Mattress:

   • Secure Straps: Once the patient is positioned, securely fasten all the straps across their body. These straps are crucial for holding the patient in place and preventing movement.
   • Fold and Mold: Carefully fold the mattress around the patient. This step is vital for the mattress to take on the precise contours of the patient's body. Ensure there are no large gaps between the patient and the mattress.

3. Deflation and Final Molding:

   • Connect Vacuum Source: Connect the vacuum pump (or a wall-mounted suction unit, if available) to the mattress's valve.
   • Begin Deflation: Start to deflate the mattress by activating the vacuum pump. As air is removed, the mattress will become rigid.
   • Simultaneous Molding: While the mattress is deflating, continue moulding it around the patient. Apply gentle pressure and adjust the mattress to ensure it perfectly conforms to the patient's unique body shape. This custom fit provides maximum immobilization and comfort. Continue until the mattress is firm and rigid.
   • Seal the Valve: Once fully deflated and rigid, close the valve securely to maintain the vacuum and the mattress's firm state.

Key Benefits of Vacuum Mattresses

Vacuum mattresses offer significant advantages in patient care and transport:

• Superior Immobilization: Unlike traditional backboards, vacuum mattresses conform to the patient's body, providing more complete and comfortable immobilization, which is especially beneficial for spinal and pelvic injuries.
• Reduced Pressure Points: The custom fit minimizes pressure points, reducing the risk of pressure sores during prolonged transport.
• Temperature Insulation: The trapped air within the mattress provides a degree of insulation, helping to maintain patient body temperature.
• Versatility: They can be used for a wide range of injuries and patient sizes, adapting to various body contours.

Summary of Vacuum Mattress Usage

By following these steps, healthcare providers can effectively use a vacuum mattress to stabilize and safely transport patients with various injuries, ensuring optimal patient outcomes.