What to Do When You Encounter a Lost Dog

 

When You Encounter a Lost Dog

 

It’s an unfortunate fact of life that many dogs do get lost or escape from their home.  Many dog owners have at least one story where we lost or encountered a lost dog. While it may be tempting to try and get a stray dog to safety, you may end up doing more harm than good.  To help you make helpful decisions about a stray dog’s welfare, we’ve put together a list of things you should do when you encounter a lost dog:

  1. Approach with extreme caution –  Depending on how long he’s been lost, a dog can easily pick up any number of diseases or parasites.  Furthermore, they can regress into a frenzied or feral state.  Unfortunately, there’s really no easy way to tell determine these factors when you encounter a lost dog.  So, it’s a good idea to approach any lost or stray dog with extreme caution. Watch for signs of aggression or anxiety.  Most importantly, make sure that you come off as non-threatening and as friendly.  It is recommended that you move slowly and use comforting language.  Also, make sure the dog has time to sniff your hand before you try to touch him.  You can also try offering food if he appears too aggressive. .
  2. Check the dog for a collar or dog tag – After you’ve managed to earn the dog’s trust, try to check for any source of identification.  Check to see if the dog has a custom or personalized dog collar on, and if his collar has any dog tags or ID attached to it.  Try to contact the owner as soon as possible if you find any number or name.
  3. Check the dog for open wounds or injuries – If possible, check for any injuries or open wounds. If you find any injury, take the dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Be gentle, careful, and considerate.
  4. Take the dog to the veterinarian – If the dog seems mal-nourished take the dog to the nearest veterinarian.  Additionally, you can also ask the veterinarian to check the dog for a chip.
  5. Spread the word through social media – If you are unable to take the dog home, leave him at a no-kill shelter.  Spread the word about him on social media platforms.  Take pictures of the dog, and include any distinguishing marks and spots.  Post the pictures your Facebook or Twitter with the date, time, and place that you found the dog.  Also, include his current location or a phone number where you can be reached.  Share on your friends accounts as well.  Try to reach as many people as possible.

These are just some of the things you can do when you encounter a stray dog.  Of course, you can always just call animal control if you don’t want to personally get involved. However, if you do nothing, then it’s a sure bet that the lost dog will never find its way back to safety.  So, make the right choice when you encounter a lost dog.

How to Shop for Curtains and Drapes

 

how to shop for curtains and drapes

 

One of the biggest things that can influence the look and feel of a room is the homeowner’s choice of drapes or curtains.  However, unless you’re an interior decorator by profession or have the services of one on speed dial, it can be very difficult to pick the perfect set for a room.

But don’t despair.  Choosing the perfect draperies is not impossible.  Knowing how to shop for curtains and drapes really isn’t difficult.  Here are a few tips on how to shop for curtains and drapes for your home.

Drapes or curtains?

A lot of people often advertise drapes and curtains as the same product. Although they may look similar and perform the same functions, drapes and curtains are actually considered different.

Curtains, for example, usually refer to lightweight window treatments.  The material is often sheer, which makes them perfect for framing or accentuating a window.  Furthermore, black out drapes, blinds, or shades fall into the curtain category as well.  Drapes, on the other hand, typically refer to products that are made out of stiffer and heavier materials.  They are usually lined on the inside and are great for blocking out light.  Additionally, the work well making an open-window room totally and completely private.

Another how to shop for curtains and drapes tip is the length. Curtains are usually cut short enough that they barely touch the floor.  They give the room a light and airy presence.  However, drapes are often tailored so they can puddle on the floor.  This is perfect if you want the room to feel more formal or grand.

So, before you start shuffling through color and pattern swatches, first decide whether the room decorating needs. Than consider whether you want curtains or drapes.

To match or to make a statement?

Another one of our how to shop for curtains and drapes tips is to think about the color and pattern of the fabric.  Curtains and drapes make a visual statement.  This means they can definitely influence the look and feel of a particular room.  So, the color or pattern that you pick for your curtain or drapes is essential.

Therefore, you have to decide what you want your curtains or drapes to do. Is the primary idea for them to match your currently-existing décor, or do you want them to pop out and make a statement?

If you want the draperies to make a visual statement, bring natural-light photographs of your room or décor.  As a result, you can more accurately pick the color that will match and compliment your room.  Be sure to take sample swatches of colors that you like home.  This gives you an opportunity to see the colors in your light

If you want your curtains or draperies to pop, then feel free to go as elaborate or ornate with the color or pattern.  Just make sure that the color doesn’t clash too much with the rest of your decor. You can prevent this by at least buying a pattern or color that fits the room’s theme. Even a potentially clashing color can surprise you if it matches the theme of the room.

However, if you just want a new set of curtains and don’t want them to be the main focus of the room choose a set in neutral colors.  This allows the curtains or drapes to gently blend into the room’s décor.  Furthermore, such colors can range from stark white to softer cream, beige, or a lighter shade of gray.

Fabric matters

Once you decided on the window treatment and the pattern or color, consider what material you want.  Additionally, your fabric choice should not only dictate how great your window treatments look , but how durable they are.

If you’re looking to maximize the look factor of your curtains, many designers agree that silk, faux silk, linen, and velvet make great choices. They will hang in luxurious and elegant ripples.

If your goal is to keep out cold weather or just blocking outside light and sound, then consider heavier materials.  Suede, velvet, tapestry, and tweed should be at the top of your list.

As for durability, organic silk has a tendency to degrade when constantly exposed to the sun.  So, don’t expect your silk curtains to last for too long if you don’t take care of them.  Additionally, you can counter this effect by using a liner or by choosing faux silk instead.  Faux silk is more durable than real silk.

Keeping the tips listed above foremost in your mind should help you get a much better idea of what you actually want and need.  Finally, make sure to research the products or materials you are considering.  Most importantly, buy only from trusted suppliers.

Easy Interior Update Ideas For Your Home

 

Interior Update Ideas

A dated interior can drag down your property value.  Furthermore, it can make your home less than enjoyable.  Unfortunately, not everyone has the funds to do a full remodel.  If you need to make some changes on a tight budget, then you’ll want to get a little creative with your solutions.  Here are a few nifty interior update ideas for your home that won’t break the bank.

Quick Fixes for Old Sheetrock

Cracked walls are a hassle, and repairing them can be both messy and expensive.  However, if you know that the damage is just cosmetic cover it over with fabric.  Furthermore, lightweight fabric that has been dipped in liquid starch will cling neatly to your wall.  Begin by removing the baseboards first so that you can run the fabric behind them.  Next, put some crown molding or a basic trim around the ceiling to help secure it. The luxurious finish will float right over most imperfections so that you can have a new look without worrying about the cracks.

Enclosed Radiators

If you have radiators in your home, then turn them into useful storage space.  By using some wood and painted pierced-metal panels, you can enclose them. The enclosures can be built to slide in and out of position for servicing the appliance. You’ll add a little valuable storage space to the room too.  You’ll also prevent little ones from hurting themselves on the radiator.

Colored Stain

If you have quality wood furniture that has a tired finish, then it’s time to update it with some fresh colors. You can make plain wood furniture look great by refinishing it with a black, white, or even red stain.  Some of the wood grain will still shine through, but you’ll have an updated piece that’s sure to look amazing.

Floor to Ceiling

Make your windows look bigger by stretching out your window treatments.  Hang the rod one to two feet above the window frame to make it look more impressive. You can also stretch out the sides and visually expand a small window by covering more of the wall on either side of the window. In addition, you can instantly transform a room and make it feel more luxurious by replacing the color of your lighting.

New Hardware

Other interior update ideas is your home’s hardware.  Update the look of almost any space with new hardware. Simply adding new pulls and handles can make your kitchen feel more current.  In the bathroom, look for new towel racks.  Also, consider replacing the doorknobs throughout your home to finish the upgrade.

Kitchen Gallery

Turn the kitchen into an art gallery by hanging some pieces above the cabinets or on open walls. It’s a great way to add color to the space and make it more visually appealing.  If you have vaulted ceilings in the kitchen, then you can use crown molding in areas to create a nice little shelf for the artwork.

With a little creativity, you can update your home without spending a small fortune with our interior update ideas. The little details can make a huge difference in how your property looks and feels. When you’re working with a tight budget, these clever ideas may be the answers you’ve been looking for.

Author bio: Jeff E. Brown is a freelance writer and a self-taught handy man with a knack for lifehacking and DIY projects. Based out of his home office where his two dogs keep him company while he types, Jeff loves writing about home improvement topics, teaching others all the tips and tricks he has learned since he moved out of an apartment and into a house. When he’s not writing, he loves organizing barbecue parties in his garden. You can contact Jeff via his landing page.

 

Organic Cleaning Tips for Parents With Small Children

 

organic cleaning tips

Research has come out recently about environmental toxins.  In particular their effect on the endocrine system.  Some household products are toxic.  Fortunately, most parents know the harmful ingredients (bleach, parabens, sodium sulfate, phthalates, etc.)  Unfortunately, there are literally dozens of other toxic ingredients in some of the cleaning products we use every day. This post discusses organic and non-toxic cleaning tips for parents of newborns and young children.

Always check the label

Products that say “organic” on the label contain little or no artificial ingredient or preservatives. However, some products marketed as “natural” and “organic” do have some ingredients that may be classified as unsafe for children. As a result, it is recommended that parents review the ingredients carefully.  You can get more information on this by visiting the Enviromental Working Group (EWG) website to find more information on specific ingredients.

Buy eco-friendly cleaners

Cleaners that have been endorsed by groups that support eco-friendly products (such as Greenseal.org) are ideal for parents with children.  These “green” cleaners don’t have ingredients known to cause skin irritation, sensitivity, or cancer.  Also, they don’t have phthalates and fragrances must be disclosed.

So, if you can’t immediately access safe cleaners consider making your own non-toxic cleaners at home.  For example, combine white vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice.  It’s perfect for cleaning bathtubs and porcelain sinks. If you need a solution that kills bacteria try hydrogen peroxide.

Products that are labeled non-toxic are deemed safe to use because they don’t cause any personal injury from contact or inhalation.  But, keep in mind that this doesn’t mean that the product is completely free of chemicals. Biodegradable simply means that the product will decompose after some time.  Most importantly, it is not an indicator of safety, especially for newborns.

Be very selective with plastics

Plastics are made with a variety of chemicals such as BPA and PVC.  Some can leak into food and drinks. The good news is you can find plenty of plastic materials that are free of BPA and other harmful ingredients.  Plastics that are labeled “microwave safe” only mean that the plastic won’t melt from the heat.  That doesn’t mean that other chemicals won’t leak from the plastic.  As a result, make a habit of hand-washing plastics instead of using the dishwasher.

Avoid commercial cleaners

Any cleaning product that advises using gloves or opening the windows is most likely unsafe to use around your child.  Home products such as table salt, tea tree oil, vinegar, and lavender can be used to clean windows, ovens, and walls.  Additionally, they also good for cleaning bathrooms, mold, and rugs.  Most commercial bathroom cleaners are toxic and can cause long-term health problems for infants. Vinegar and baking soda can be used to create a paste that cleans out scum.  Furthermore, it leaves the walls and floor of your shower perfectly clean.  Alternatively, use Castile soap and club soda for tougher stains.

When purchasing products such as hand soaps, sanitizers and air fresheners, check the label for chemicals that might be unsafe for your little one. The EWG database will provide more information on the ingredients.

Additional Resources:
http://www.empiremaids.nyc

How to Buy a Photo Scanner for Family Photos

Since you were born, your parents started taking photos of you.  The photo included other family members and other special events related to them.  However, these pictures can get lost or destroyed.  Unfortunately, along with the lost photos goes memories.  Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on how to buy a photo scanner.

photo scanner

 

 

The best way to save your family photos is to store them in your personal computer. Furthermore, one of the best methods is to use a high-quality scanner.  What does a scanner do?  It scans physical photos and transforms them into digital photos directly onto your computer.  Fortunately, you can save tons of them without worrying about them getting lost.

Also, scanners have existed since the 1950s.  However, they only became available for the larger public in the 90s.  The best photo scanner is are the flatbeds. They are easy to use and are compatible with almost every type of computer. If used excessively, many photo scanners can deteriorate your images. So, be sure to select a photo scanner that will endure usage.  Especially, if scanning your family photos is the main goal. 

In the $100 price range, there are lots of photo scanners that can do the job.  But, if you have used a camera with film negatives or you are planning on scanning artwork, a nice scanner can go up to $200. They can come with features that will hold your pictures in place.  This feature can be useful when scanning photos.  Additionally, you must pay attention to how they use the combination of light and mirrors.  If pixels are missing, and that is due to the light or the mirrors, the quality of your scan will be affected. 

As a result, there are three major points to consider when buying a photo scanner:

  • The first one is the resolution.  The more dots per square inch, the better your pictures will come out on the computer.
  • Secondly, image-sensing technology is very important too. Remember that contact image sensors are good for scanning documents.  However, the charged coupled device or CCD can hold a large number of photos and that is what you need.
  • Last, check the dynamic range and tonal range. The higher range it has, the better scan you will have.   For example, Letter D represents the top range. Same thing goes with the tonal range, the higher, the better.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of a photo scanner, you may also want to start considering a high-quality printer to reproduce your images as well.  Keep in mind that digital storage can be fragile, so “hard copies” are good to keep on hand. 

The types of printers used by artists for artwork should be considered.  However, these can become quite expensive.  Additionally consider a printing service, which uses very high caliber equipment to produce quality prints.

We hope you found our tips on how to buy a photo scanner helpful.  Go forth and start scanning your family photos! The market has a lot of scanners ready to be bought, coming in different shapes and colors, but remember that the specifications are the most important factor you have to look for when getting one.

The Packaging of Food Products Can Affect the Taste

 

Have you ever wondered why some things just taste better when eaten or drunk from certain containers?  For instance, it is believed that coffee will taste stronger if you drink it from a white mug as compared to a clear one.  This seems to be true even though it is the same brew.  Additionally, it appears that all senses are involved in the sensation of taste.  Packaging manufactures have taken note.  As a result, there are different types of boxes for different product types.  This is part of the food product packaging concept.

You can learn more here https://www.boxcoop.com/boxes-by-industry/food-beverage.  So, lets delve a little deeper into the matter and discover how and why these connections exist in our minds.

Suggestive Design Can Be Healthier

For instance, products that suggest saltiness can use a food product packaging concept that reduces the salt content without compromising the taste of the food.  Similarly, sugar content in a lot of foods could be significantly lowered with the use of these food product packaging concept too.  Again, what’s important is the suggestion that the product is healthier and there is no perceived change in the taste to consumers.

The Picture on the Package Goes a Long Way

Consumers seem to be trained to look for certain elements on packaging too.  In most cases, these clues are subconscious.  They are a reflection of what our ancestors looked for in the food they choose.  However, you can make a conscious effort to pick up on those clues.  For instance, if the package displays the product contained inside, customers are more likely to connect with the product being high quality and tasty.  This packaging concept is often employed by food brands.

The next time you go food shopping, take a closer look at the packaging. You may be pleasantly surprised and empowered by having knowledge of how brands advertise.

packaging food products

The Colors Affect 

For humans, colors can represent a lot of things.  But, there are some colors and associations which go beyond our conscious minds.  They delve deep into our primordial nature.  For instance, red and yellow are primary colors when it comes to food.  These colors stimulate hunger.  Which is why food brands will use these colors in their advertisement.

Brown and similar earthy tones are associated with nature and natural foods. The same kind of association comes with green, but the use of this color has reduced in the past few years.

Bright and bold colors are typically reserved for candy and other sweet products. The intensity of the color usually reflects the intensity of the taste of the product. On the other hand, reserved and pastel colors are used for savory products.  They signify a rich and deep flavor of high-end products.

The Tactile Texture Matters 

For many, the packaging is just a container.  It simply preserves and houses the product until it is used. However, there is so much more that goes on into packaging the product for potential consumers.  For example, the feel of the box can persuade you that the contents of the box are of high quality.  It can signify high quality even if is not.  Furthermore, the most recent texture marketing move was done by the potato chips producers.  The companies want to give the impression that their product is healthier.  As a result, they started using matte bags as opposed to the traditional shiny ones.

Finally, if you are in the food business, you should spend time designing your package.  Since, it will become a part of your product’s image the time will be an investment.  There are companies which can help you with that part, if you’re not design-savvy.  If you’re not in the food business, becoming knowledgeable of the packaging concepts can be beneficial simply because you’re a consumer.

How to Get Your Portable Generator Ready for Winter

Portable Generators

 

If you own a portable generator, you probably know by now that these devices require special treatment during cold winter days. This goes for both standby and portable models. And, people living in colder areas also know how dreadful it can be to lose power in the middle of winter and not be able to rely on your portable generator for backup.

To make sure this doesn’t happen to you, there are a few things you could do. The first is to subject your generator to regular maintenance.  This is important even if everything seems in order.  Proper maintenance will prevent unexpected malfunctions. The second is to properly winterize your generator. In this article, we’ll explain how.

Portable Generators

If you don’t intend to use your portable generator during the winter, you’ll need to properly winterize it so you can be sure it will be in working order once you need it again. To make sure it’s properly winterized, you have to make sure you are using a premium class fuel stabilizer.  Add the stabilizer to the fuel supply according to the label on the product.

Next, run the engine for around ten minutes so the stabilizer is evenly distributed. Drain the oil and replace it with a fresh supply. While you’re at it, replace the oil filter. With the engine running, add premium class fogging oil into the engine until it starts producing heavy smoke, then turn off the generator. This will help prevent condensation and moisture damage during the winter.

After that, take out the spark plug and use the same fogging oil to cover the hole of the plug. Make sure all nuts and screws are tight and that there are no damaged parts.

Standby Generators 

The same rules about protecting the generator during the winter apply to standby generators as well.  This will ensure they will be able to provide additional power even during the coldest months of the season. First and foremost, you should ensure that there’s no snow on and at least 5 feet away from the generator.  Check the battery to make sure it’s not low or dead. If the battery is low on power, you should recharge it. However, if the battery cannot hold the charge, you should replace it.

Use a battery warmer from a cold weather kit. It will make sure the temperature of the battery doesn’t drop under 40 degrees.  Diesel fuel tends to become gelatinous when the temperature drops, and there are several ways to make sure this doesn’t happen. You can add certain special additives that will prevent the fuel from becoming gelatinous or heat the fuel delivery lines.

The Necessary steps to service your portable or standby generators before cold snowy weather arrives.

 

 

Wedding Tips for the Flower Girl or Ring Bearer

Wedding Tips Making sure your flower girl or ring bearer walks down the aisle without incident can be a major undertaking. In many instances the short trip can end with a tantrum or tears.  So, how do you avoid drama with your flower girl or ring bearer?   The following are wedding tips on how to make your child shine when in the spotlight.

Strengthen the Relationship

You can do your best to teach your child good manners.  However, whether it’s due to a lack of sleep, irregular schedule or hunger, toddlers are going to have bad moments.  So, you will need to prepare your child for various situations.  Especially, if they have been asked to participate in a wedding as a flower girl or ring bearer.  They may be fearful, especially if the couple are not regulars to your home.  So, one of our wedding tips is to spend as much time with the bride and groom as you can.  Be sure to include your child so they can feel comfortable with them too.

Bribe Them

Although you don’t want to start a pattern of bribing your child, it could work when coaxing them down the aisle.  The bride and groom typically choose great groomsmen gifts to show their appreciation to the wedding party. Gifts can include cufflinks, engraved wallets and beer mugs. Also, personalized necklaces, bracelets, tote bags and wine openers are special mementos for the female attendants.  A plush toy, doll or race car can be a great incentive for coaxing toddlers down the isle.

Go Above and Beyond

Young children are less likely to misbehave when in a formal setting.  Go above and beyond the call of duty to create a fun environment for them.  If your male child loves cars, let him carry a toy sports car as he makes his way down the aisle. If your little lady loves horses, get her a mini stuffed pony.  You can place it in the flower basket and cover it with the flowers.  She can uncover it as she making her way down the aisle.

Practice Makes Perfect

Children are anything but perfect. But, if you want them to show less fear and anxiety give them time to become familiar with a setting.  Furthermore, show them a video where they will see what their duties entail. Let them become accustomed to people watching them. Guide them through the steps of walking down aisle.  Also, let them practice tossing petals or carrying the ring bearers pillow. It can take a number of sessions for your child to master this important job.  Patience is important.

Let Them Have a Voice in What They Wear

You want your children to be comfortable with their wedding attire.  Although you may want them dressed somewhat formally, let them have a voice in what they are wearing.  Pick out a few outfits that meet with the approval of the bride and groom.  Let them choose what they would like to wear.  Also, if you’re planning on having them at the reception for a period of time, pick out comfy clothes they can change into.

Stay on Schedule

Children do best when sticking to a schedule. If the bride and groom are planning to take photos hours before the actual wedding, they shouldn’t expect your child to sit through this long process.  If they don’t have children, they need to be reminded that kids get tired easily.  It may be best to take pictures immediately after the wedding ceremony. If there is time between the wedding and reception, put your child down for a nap.  Hopefully, they’ll be refreshed and ready for the next event.

Meet Your Child Down the Aisle

One of our biggest wedding tips is to not expect your little one to walk down the aisle without a hitch.  Have a member of the wedding party meet your child down the aisle. If they see a familiar face, they may be happy to glide their way down the isle.  However,  an adult should be ready to remove them in case they get unruly during the ceremony.

Even if you do everything right to try and keep your youngsters happy, children are unpredictable.  And, they may still experience a meltdown.  However, by using the wedding tips above you have a greater chance of the child surviving the ceremony without too much negativity.

 

3 Ideas To Achieve The Perfect Alternative To Christmas Dinner

 

alternative christmas ideas

 

Turkey and ham are great, but every year you yearn for something different.  However, every year you succumb to tradition.  It’s not that you don’t enjoy having the family around the table.  Who doesn’t love feasting on turkey, roasted potatoes, rich red wine gravy and bejeweled Christmas pudding.  But, you’re constantly thinking how it might be nice to mix it up once in a while.  There are plenty of ways in which you can still enjoy an alternative menu on Christmas Day.  Most importantly, you’ll be making new edible traditions for the family in the process.

First, you need to decide what sort of alternative cuisine you would enjoy.  Also, if there are any dietary requirements in your family make sure they are accounted for.  There’s no point serving chestnuts roasted with paprika and chili if your grandma is allergic to nuts. Take your time and explore all your options.

 

Alternative Christmas Dinner Ideas

Image by

 

Think Outside The Box

You may wish to forgo your oven and explore an entirely different method of cooking Christmas dinner this season.  Furthermore, you might like the idea of getting a smoker like the one available at BillyOh Barbecues.  You can cure and smoke your own salmon and herring.  Furthermore, it will save you a trip to the grocery store for a side of Gravlax or Hot Smoked Rainbow Trout.  You could take the barbeque theme even further, throw a few Ribeyes and Chops on the grill.  By embracing  different Christmas cuisines like a festive barbecue, you’ll ensure dinner on Christmas Day will be one to remember.

Themes

You may want to encapsulate a theme for your Christmas party.  Perhaps a Hawaiian themed party or a festive winter theme.  You can include a buffet or ‘bring a dish’ style dinner party.  Whatever theme you choose, you will want the food to be delicious.  So, choose wisely and embrace your ideas wholeheartedly.  Additionally, give your family plenty of notice.  They’ll enjoy experiencing something new over the holidays, and will love that you are hosting the party.

Image by

 

Your Experience

Perhaps it is the environment that needs to be a little different this year.  You could take a trip and volunteer for Christmas.  If travel is not an option, volunteer with a local charity.  An alternative to hosting Christmas dinner at home is to dish out a traditional dinner at the local homeless shelter.  You could also welcome a lonely senior into your home for Christmas lunch. You may find that doing a good deed on December 25th is all you need to feel like you’re making a difference.  By giving back to the local community over the holidays, you’ll be the epitome of showing goodwill to all men.

So, Christmas is a time of celebration, giving thanks and enjoying quality time with family and friends.  There’s no better way to share in the joy of the holiday season than whipping up Christmas dinner or treats in the kitchen for those around you to enjoy.

 

Choosing the Right Medical Mattress: Managing Pressure Injuries

Reshome health care

 

A good medical mattress is indispensable in the prevention and management of pressure injuries.  A medical mattress is particularly important for bed-bound patients.  Especially, overweight and limited mobility patients. Additionally, people with multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and those suffering from burns can benefit from a good medical mattress too.  Each of these patients are at high risk for developing pressure injuries or ulcers also known as bed sores.

There are various types of medical mattresses.  As a result, before buying one consider the needs of the user. For example, what is the current state of the patient’s skin integrity. Patients with more severe skin issues will usually require a mattress with extensive therapy options.

A patient with intact skin, a small blister, or shallow open bed sore is likely to only need a gel overlay or entry level foam mattress to manage the pressure injury. More advanced pressure wounds may require a specialized mattress to facilitate healing.

Various Types of Medical Mattresses

The most common medical mattresses include the alternating pressure mattress, low air-loss mattress, therapeutic foam mattress, and innerspring mattress.  Each has a different set of features that provide support, ease, and relief to patients at risk.

An alternating pressure mattress has individual air cells that inflate and deflate.  This type of mattress helps to effectively manage pressure and skin moisture. Additionally, it is good for relieving various pressure points.  It also improves blood circulation at the same time. This mattress can effectively prevent the formation of pressure injuries. Also, they promote the healing of existing ulcers.

Similar to an alternating pressure mattress is the low air-loss mattress. It also contains individual air cells that alternate pressure to stop wounds from forming. Additionally, it has a cooling function.  Each cell has a tiny hole that releases small amounts of air that targets hot spots on the body. It also regulates skin moisture and provides adequate support.

Meanwhile, a therapeutic foam mattress relieves pressure in specific areas of the body. It features soft foam in areas where pressure injuries are most likely to start. This includes the head, elbow, and back of the legs. The surrounding parts of the mattress have a more rigid foam.

Lastly, there is the innerspring mattress. This is similar to a traditional mattress and offers no protection against pressure sores. In fact, it can even cause the development of pressure injuries by adding pressure and increasing the temperature of the skin surface. Most importantly, while it is cheap, an innerspring mattress is NOT recommended for a patient who spends more than 10 hours a day in bed.

Important Considerations

Purchasing the right mattress can help in the prevention, maintenance, and healing of pressure injuries.  However,  that’s not all it takes. While a good mattress will lessen the manual work needed to control a pressure injury, a caregiver must still take responsibility for ensuring the health and daily care of the patient.

Just as important, special care must be given to patients who are incontinent.  The added moisture can aggravate pressure sores.  Restless patients should use perimeter guards.  These accessories can prevent falls.  Plus they help keep the mattress cover smooth to prevent shearing.

Finally, pressure prevention doesn’t stop with the mattress. If the patient spends a long time in a wheelchair, ensure that the seat is also adequately equipped to discourage the formation of pressure sores.