Pressure care overlays

Pressure care overlays are often used by people with mild to moderate pressure injury risk who find standard mattresses uncomfortable, or by people waiting for a full pressure care mattress to be supplied. Overlays can improve comfort and help spread pressure more evenly, but they should only be used under clinical guidance from a nurse or allied health professional as part of a wider care plan.

Often no. People with very high pressure injury risk, existing pressure injuries or extremely limited mobility usually require a dedicated pressure care mattress, such as a high-specification foam or alternating air system. The decision should always be made by a nurse, wound care team or therapist based on a full pressure risk assessment.

Quality overlays usually have covers, straps or textured undersides to help keep them in place, but bedding should still be checked regularly. It is important to look for wrinkles, bunching or slipping, as these can increase friction and pressure. Fitting instructions and diagrams are often included in our product catalogues .

Many overlays can be used on standard or hospital beds, but size, thickness and bed compatibility all matter. Overlays should match the mattress size and should not interfere with bed rails, profiling functions or safe transfers. Always check product specifications and seek advice from your therapist or our team before using an overlay on a particular bed.

Most pressure care overlays have removable, wipeable covers that can be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Some inserts may be washable, while others should not be soaked or machine washed. Avoid sharp objects, tight bedlinen and excessive heat. Regular checks for wear, damage and contamination are an important part of good pressure care in both home and facility settings.

In many cases, pressure care overlays are funded as assistive technology under the NDIS when they are prescribed or recommended by an allied health professional and linked to goals such as skin protection, comfort and staying at home safely. The funding pathway depends on the person’s risk level and overall pressure care plan. For more information on assistive technology, you can visit the NDIS page on assistive technology explained . Our team can provide quotes, product specifications and invoices for participants, support coordinators and plan managers.

Some pressure care products, including certain overlays, may be available for short-term hire, especially after surgery or while long-term equipment is being arranged. Current hire options and availability are listed on our dedicated hire website at https://hire.shhc.com.au/ . From our Bentleigh showroom in Melbourne, Victoria, we supply pressure care overlays and support surfaces across Melbourne, including the Mornington Peninsula and Bellarine Peninsula, with shipping to many locations Australia wide. If you are unsure which overlay is suitable, please contact our team with details from your nurse or therapist so we can help narrow down options.