Evaluation of mattresses using interface pressure mapping
Abstract
Objective:
To compare the ranking of mattresses using several different performance indices, calculated from interface pressure-mapping data.
Method:
Five mattresses were compared using interface pressure-mapping on 10 healthy volunteers. Mattresses were ranked in order, on the basis of several different specified performance indices.
Results:
Different performance indices ranked the mattresses in different orders.
Conclusion:
Elaborate performance indices should be used with care, since it is possible to construct a ‘tailor-made’ performance index to make any chosen mattress rank as the best. Care should be taken to ensure that a performance index is validated, preferably by some demonstrated link to clinical outcomes.
Declaration of interest:
This work was paid for by a grant from Huntleigh Technology Plc.
