Which device is commonly used to help redistribute pressure for stage III–IV ulcers?

• A. Alternating pressure support surface
• B. Standard hospital foam mattress
• C. Water-filled mattress
• D. Soft pillow

Answer: (A)

Redistributing pressure away from the ulcer to prevent prolonged loading on any one area is essential for healing stage III–IV ulcers. An alternating pressure support surface achieves this by cycling air into and out of its cells, so different parts of the body are relieved of pressure at different times. This offloading reduces blood flow impairment in the wound area and surrounding tissues, helping to prevent further tissue damage and promote healing.

Static options like a standard hospital foam mattress provide some pressure relief but don’t actively redistribute load. A water-filled mattress distributes pressure but is less effective for consistent offloading and can be harder to manage. A soft pillow doesn’t provide full-body support or pressure redistribution. Therefore, the device commonly used for this purpose is the alternating pressure surface.