GB2501477A

GB2501477A - Mattress cover

Info

Publication number: GB2501477A
Application number: GB201207092A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Richard Baker; Gary Baker
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2012-04-23
Filing date: 2012-04-23
Publication date: 2013-10-30
Also published as: GB201207092D0

Abstract

A mattress cover comprises first 8 and second 20 fabric layers with an intermediate layer 26 interposed there between, the first layer extending over the top, sides, ends 12 and at least a portion of the lower side 16 of the mattress, the second layer underlying at least a portion of the part of the first layer adjacent to the top of the mattress. Either or both of the first and second fabric layers may be an impermeable Polyurethane-coated fabric, and the intermediate layer may be foam, and may be impermeable. The mattress cover may have a releasable closure, preferably in the lower side and may provide a space to accommodate an intermediate 128 item such as a pillow. The mattress cover may be provided as part of an assembly comprising a cover and a mattress, which is preferably dynamic.

Description

A MATTRESS COVER

The present invention relates to a mattress cover, in particular to a mattress cover for covering mattresses having therapeutic and/or orthopaedic applications.

The present invention further relates to a mattress assembly comprising the mattress cover and a mattress.

It is well known to provide mattress covers for covering the upper surface of domestic mattresses. An unprotected mattress will absorb contaminants derived from bodily excretions and/or liquids resulting from spills into its inner core. Similarly, within the hospital environment, there is potential for cross infection if contaminated mattresses remain in use. Accordingly, mattress covers are used quite aggressively as a means for increasing the life of a healthcare mattress and keeping cross infection to a minimum.

Healthcare mattresses including foam and active or reactive mattresses are typically covered in waterproof, multi-stretch, moisture and vapour permeable polyurethane protective coverings. Whilst these covers are designed to both protect the patient's skin and the inner core of the mattress from contamination or damage, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) highlighted in their Medical Device Alert issued on 5 January, 2010 that they remain susceptible to damage at any time during their use or storage. For example, holes or cuts may result from the penetration of a needle or other sharp object during handling, transport or movement or inappropriate cleaning and decontamination procedures. If mattress covers are damaged in this way, body or other fluids can pass through and contaminate the inner core of the mattress. Accordingly, those responsible for the provision, inspection, use and maintenance of bed mattresses must adhere to a frequent inspection regime to extend the life of healthcare mattress and reduce cross infection.

This regime requires hospital stall to regularly inspect the exterior surface of each mattress cover for signs of damage such as holes or cuts. If the mattress cover is removable, the inside surface of the cover and the mattress core are also to be inspected, for staining and/or contamination. Damaged and/or stained covers are to be safely disposed of and contaminated mattress cores may be either cleaned and decontaminated or safely disposed of.

Procedures for decontaminating healthcare mattress covers and mattresses are costly. Accordingly, healthcare mattress covers are typically arranged so that they may be easily removed and replaced when damaged and/or stained. In particular, they cover only the upper surface and sides of the mattress, much like fitted sheets used for domestic mattresses. As a consequence however, body or other fluids may be absorbed through the base of the mattress increasing the risk of contamination and cross infection.

In addition to the above, healthcare mattress covers are required to provide a satisfactory level of comfort to the patient. Dynamic mattresses for example, are widely used in hospitals and clinics, in particular for patients with long term illnesses and difficulties requiring them to remain in bed for extended periods of time. Dynamic mattresses comprise a plurality of inflatable cells which are selectively inflated and deflated to avoid the patient developing pressure sores and other conditions symptomatic of extended periods reclining in bed. These mattresses are typically covered in waterproof polyurethane mattress covers as above. Despite this however, dynamic mattresses are still known to cause some discomfort to the patient.

In light of this problem, a foam layer is sometimes inserted inbetween the mattress cover and the inflatable cells. In most cases, the foam layer lies loosely in this position. This is preferred since different foam inserts of varying lengths, widths and thicknesses may be inserted and replaced according to the patients needs. On the other hand, loose foam inserts are easily displaced causing discomfort.

An alternative and less preferred method is to encapsulate the foam insert prior to its insertion between the inflatable cells and the mattress cover. Although the foam insert is less easily displaced, in this arrangement, the encapsulated foam layer tends to form wrinkles under the mattress cover. These wrinkles can cause discomfort and damage to the mattress cover affecting its ability to protect both the patient and the mattress. In addition, the wrinkles are likely to cause discomfort to the patient. Furthermore, sensation of the foam insert by the patient is weakened, since the foam layer is separated from the patient via two layers of fabric.

WO 201 0/099614 discloses a cover for a domestic mattress comprising top and lateral panels for covering the top and lateral surfaces of a mattress. Further, the lateral panel comprises an adjustment feature for securing the cover to the underside of mattresses varying in shape and size. A silk floss fill is also retained within the top panel for providing structural integrity, wicking and protection from irritants/allergens.

Accordingly, present techniques for improving the level of comfort provided by healthcare mattresses, remain unsatisfactory. Furthermore, these techniques necessarily require the user to first remove or displace the mattress cover before inserting the additional foam layer. As a consequence, the risk of contamination and cross-infection is increased.

It would therefore be of advantage if a mattress cover having all of the advantages of the aforementioned covers could be provided but wherein the abovementioned problems are resolved. In particular, it would be advantageous if a mattress cover was provided that improved the level of comfort but did not conversely affect the shape or configuration of the surface in contact with the patient's skin and reduced the risk of contamination or cross infection when the cover is damaged. In addition, it would be an advantage if the mattress cover, whilst improving the level of comfort provided, was easy to put on and remove from healthcare mattresses of varying shapes and sizes, for decontamination or disposal as discussed above.

Whilst efforts are being made to try to reduce cross-infection caused by contaminated healthcare mattresses, care assistants continue to use pillows for improving the degree of comfort and/or for (re)positioning a patient. However, these pillows are similar to domestic pillows in that they are generally formed from fibre, feather and/or foam materials. Accordingly, these pillows are easily contaminated and can cause cross-infection between patients. Even pillows contained within a waterproof cover tend to slip on the top surface of the mattress, causing the care assistant to continually reposition the patient.

Accordingly, it would be a further advantage if a mattress cover having all of the advantages of the aforementioned covers could be provided but wherein the abovementioned problems are also resolved.

In general, it has now been found that an improved mattress cover comprises: a first fabric layer comprising: a top portion for extending over the upper surface of a mattress; and first and second side portions extending from opposing sides of the top portion and for extending over the opposing sides of the mattress; a second fabric layer underlying at least a portion of the top portion of the first fabric layer; and a layer of an intermediate material interposed between the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer.

To provide the greatest level of protection against fluid ingress into the mattress and cross-infection between patients, the cover preferably encloses the mattress.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a mattress cover comprising: a first fabric layer comprising: a top portion for extending over the upper surface of a mattress; first and second side portions extending from opposing sides of the top portion and for extending over the opposing sides of the mattress; first and second end portions extending from opposing ends of the top portion and for extending over the opposing ends of the mattress; and a bottom portion for extending over the lower surface of the mattress; a second fabric layer underlying at least a portion of the top portion of the first fabric layer; and a layer of an intermediate material interposed between the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer.

References herein to top' and bottom' are in relation to the normal orientation of mattress on a bed and to the mattress cover when in place on the mattress in this position, with top' being in relation to the upper surface of the mattress and bottom' being in relation to the underside of the mattress.

As discussed above, the mattress cover of the present invention comprises a first fabric layer. The first fabric layer comprises an outer and inner surface, wherein the outer surface is for contacting the external environment and the inner surface faces away from the external environment and towards the mattress, when the cover isinuse.

The first fabric layer is preferably liquid impermeable to prohibit body or other fluids from passing through and contaminating the inner core of the mattress.

Accordingly, it is preferable that the first fabric layer is composed of a material or combination of materials having this property. Materials which render the first fabric layer breathable are also preferred. Suitable materials are known in the art and are commercially available. Polyurethane (PU) coated fabrics are commonly used to form healthcare mattress covers as they provide these characteristics. Reaction polymers such as polyurethane (PU) are therefore preferred materials for forming the first fabric layer of the present invention. However, it is to be appreciated that other waterproof materials such as rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), silicone elastomer, and fluoropolymers, as well as fabrics coated or impregnated with water resistant agents, such as wax, may also be used to form the first fabric layer of the present invention.

In one preferred embodiment, the inner surface of the first fabric layer is a different colour to the outer surface. More preferably, the inner surface is lighter in colour than of the outer surface. For example, the inner surface may be white. In this way, the passage of bodily or other liquids from the external environment through a damaged first fabric layer is more visible to the human eye and allows for the quick and easy detection of a possible contamination of the mattress.

If the first fabric layer is formed with its inner and outer surfaces of different colours, this construction is used at least for the top portion of the first fabric layer, in particular that part of the top portion opposing the underlying second fabric layer.

More preferably, the entire first fabric layer is provided with an inner surface and an outer surface of different colours.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the first fabric layer is formed from separate outer and inner fabric portions, which are connected together, for example, using stitching or adhesive, to form the first fabric layer. In this way, the outer layer of the first fabric layer may be formed using the same or different materials as the inner layer. Preferably, both the inner and the outer layers are formed from the same material, with a particular preference being for both layers to comprise materials which arc waterproof.

If the first fabric layer is provided with an inner layer and an outer layer, this construction is used at least for the top portion of the first fabric layer, in particular that part of the top portion opposing the underlying second fabric layer. More preferably, the entire first fabric layer is provided with the aforementioned two-layer construction.

The first fabric layer of the present invention comprises a top portion for extending over the upper surface of a mattress. First and second side portions extend from opposing sides of the top portion and are for extending over the corresponding opposing sides of the mattress. The first fabric layer of the present invention further comprises end portions extending from the opposing ends of the top portion and for extending over the opposing ends of the mattress. In this way the upper surface, opposing sides and ends of the mattress are covered and protected from contamination by bodily or other fluids.

The first fabric layer of the present invention further comprises a bottom portion to underlie the mattress to form an enclosure with the top portion, side portions and end portions. In this way, the mattress is covered in its entirety and is protected from bodily or other liquids passing from beneath the mattress or bed frame into its inner core.

The mattress cover, for example a side portion or the bottom portion of the mattress cover, preferably comprises an opening through which dynamic mattress pipe work can be inserted. In this way, the compressor (pump) may be connected, via the pipe work, to the various air chambers of the dynamic mattress within the mattress cover.

In one preferred embodiment of the mattress cover, the bottom portion of the cover is formed to have a non-slip outer surface. For example, the outer surface of the bottom portion may be provided with or be releasably attached to a non-slip material. The non-slip material acts to further secure the mattress onto the underlying bed frame. Suitable non slip fabrics are known in the art and are commercially available.

In a preferred embodiment, the first fabric layer is provided with a releasable closure means for allowing the enclosure formed by the mattress cover to be opened, in order to easily remove the mattress cover for disposal, cleaning or decontamination purposes. The releasable closure means may be any suitable means and include but are not limited to zip fasteners, hook and loop fasteners or releasable stud fastening mechanisms. The releasable closure means may extend along a sufficient portion of the cover to allow the cover to be removed from the mattress. For example, the releasable closure means may extend the length of at least one side or end portion. More preferably, the releasable closure means extends along at least one side portion and one end portion, still more preferably along both end portions and one side portion of the first fabric layer, to enable the mattress cover of the present invention to be more easily removed. The releasable closure means may be positioned at any suitable location in the cover. Preferably, the releasable closure means is located at a distance from the top portion of the first fabric layer, in particular in one or more side and/or end portions of the first fabric layer between the top portion and the bottom portion. The releasable fastening means is more preferably adjacent the boftom portion of the first fabric layer.

Positioning the closure means away from the top portion in this way means it is less likely to disturb or cause discomfort to an individual reclining on the top portion. In addition, this position reduces the chances of liquid entering the cover through the closure means.

The top, side, end and bottom portions may be formed of separate portions of fabric and joined together for assembly prior to use as a mattress cover. This may be achieved using known stitching methods or by way of adhesive, for example. One or more of the side, end and bottom portions may be releasably secured to one or more of the adjacent portions. Alternatively, two or more of the top portion, side portions, end portions and bottom portion may be formed from a single piece of fabric.

The mattress cover of the present invention further comprises a second fabric layer, wherein the second fabric layer underlies at least a portion of the top portion of the first fabric layer. More preferably, the second fabric layer underlies the entire surface of the top portion of the first fabric layer. This arrangement provides for maximum comfort for the patient and better prevents bodily or other liquids passing through any region of the first fabric layer reaching the mattress.

The second fabric layer is preferably liquid impermeable to prohibit body or other fluids from passing through and contaminating the inner core of the mattress.

Accordingly, it is preferable that the second fabric layer is composed of a material or combination of materials having this property. Materials which render the second fabric layer breathable are also preferred. Suitable materials are known in the art and are commercially available. Polyurethane (PU) coated fabrics are commonly used to form healthcare mattress covers as they provide these characteristics. Reaction polymers such as polyurethane (PU) are therefore preferred materials for forming the second fabric layer of the present invention. However it is to be appreciated that other waterproof materials such as rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), silicone elastomer, and fluoropolymers, as well as fabrics coated or impregnated with water resistant agents, such as wax, may also be used to form the second fabric layer of the present invention.

The second fabric layer is preferably formed from the same material as the first fabric layer as hereinbefore described.

The second fabric layer underlies the first fabric layer, more preferably the second fabric layer underlies the top portion of the first fabric layer. A layer of intermediate material extends between the second fabric layer and the top portion of the first fabric layer. Preferably, the second fabric layer, together with the top portion of the first fabric layer, forms an enclosure for housing the layer of intermediate material, described in more detail below.

The second fabric layer may be provided as a separate portion of fabric and connected to the top portion of the first fabric layer, for example using known stitching methods, or by way of adhesive, for example. Alternatively, the second fabric layer may be formed integrally with the top portion of the first fabric layer.

In one embodiment, the second fabric layer is releasably attached to the first fabric layer. The mattress cover preferably comprises releasable closure means in the top portion of the first fabric layer, and/or the second fabric layer, to allow the layer of intermediate material to be inspected, removed or replaced, as required in use. More preferably, the releasable closure means is situated in the second fabric layer. In this way, the releasable closure means is less likely to cause discomfort and most importantly, reduces the risk of fluid ingress through the first fabric layer into the mattress. Suitable releasable closure means are known in the art and are as hereinbefore described.

As discussed above, the mattress cover of the present invention further comprises a layer of intermediate material interposed between the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer. In this way, the layer of intermediate material is securely held in position underneath the top portion of the first fabric layer. Accordingly, there is no need to encase the layer of intermediate material within its own cover, as is the case with prior art systems. In addition, in this configuration the layer of intermediate material need only be separated from the patient's body via the top portion of the first fabric layer. In this way, sensation of the layer of intermediate material by the patient is considerably increased. Further, in this configuration, the layer of intermediate material overlying the second fabric layer will not be in direct contact with the upper surface of the mattress, when in use. Therefore, in cases where the first fabric layer is damaged, the layer of intermediate material, interposed between the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer, will act as a second barrier to fluid ingress into the mattress.

As noted above, it is preferred to provide the first and/or second fabric layers with releasable closure means to provide access to the layer of intermediate material.

In this way, should the clinician find that the layer of intermediate material is contaminated, the layer of intermediate material, for example contained within a releasable enclosure, may be safely removed, leaving the underlying mattress unaffected.

The layer of intermediate material is preferably composed of a material or combination of materials which are liquid impermeable and capable of acting as a waterproof barrier, prohibiting movement of bodily and/or other fluids from the surrounding environment onto the mattress through the intermediate material.

Suitable materials therefor include, but are not limited to various types of foam material such as polyurethane foams, memory foam, latex rubber foam, natural (wool and cotton) and synthetic fibres, gel and rubber materials.

In addition, the layer of intermediate material must be capable of providing a suitable level of comfort to an individual reclining on the top surface of the first fabric layer. Still further, it is preferable if the layer of intermediate material may be used to aid a clinician when trying to position a patient on the top surface of a healthcare mattress. Further, when the mattress cover of the present invention is used to cover a healthcare mattress, in particular a dynamic mattress, the layer of intermediate material must be capable of translating movement of the air chambers contained within the mattress cover to the patient reclining on the top portion of the first fabric layer of the mattress cover of the present invention.

The intermediate material may consist of a single layer of material or may comprise a plurality of layers of different materials which, when combined, provide the aforementioned properties required of the intermediate layer.

It is to be appreciated that the layer of intermediate material may provide the above characteristics as a single piece of material underlying the entire top portion of the first fabric layer, or as several portions arranged side by side and underlying the top portion of the first fabric layer. In the latter arrangement, each portion is preferably housed within a separate enclosure, each enclosure formed between opposing portions of the second fabric layer and the first fabric layer. The various portions of the intermediate layer may be formed from the same material.

Alternatively, the portions of the intermediate layer may be formed from different materials. In this way, the properties of the intermediate material may be selected according to the position of the respective portion on the mattress. For example, the portions of the intermediate material making up the intermediate layer may differ in one or more properties such as composition, water impermeability, density, stiffness and thickness. These physical properties are described in more detail below.

Further, each enclosure containing a portion of the intermediate layer preferably comprises releasable closure and/or fastening means, as hereinbefore described. In this way, the enclosures themselves and/or the portions of intermediate material may be easily removed or replaced.

The layer of intermediate material may have any suitable thickness to provide the properties described above. The thickness of the intermediate material will be determined by such factors as the properties of the material and the particular function to be performed, for example determined by the position of the material on the mattress when in use. The layer of intermediate material is preferably up to 55 mm in thickness. More preferably, the layer of intermediate material is up to 40 mm in thickness, still more preferably up to 30 mm in thickness. The layer of intermediate material is preferably at least 5 mm in thickness. More preferably, the layer of intermediate material is at least 10 mm in thickness, still more preferably at least 12 mm in thickness. In one preferred embodiment, the layer of intermediate material is from 12 mm to 30 mm in thickness. As noted above, the aforementioned thicknesses may be formed from a single layer of intermediate material or from a plurality of layers of material.

The intermediate material may be uniform in thickness along the length of the mattress cover. Alternatively, the thickness of the layer of intermediate material may vary according to its position along the length and/or width of the mattress cover.

This may be beneficial in terms of moulding the mattress cover to better correspond to the body of an individual reclining on the top portion of the first fabric layer. In this way, the level of comfort perceived by the reclining individual is increased. For example, the thickness of the section of intermediate material underlying the arch of a patient's back may be increased relative to the rest of the layer of intermediate material, thereby providing additional support for this region of the patient.

The layer of intermediate material may be of any density suitable for providing a minimal degree of comfort and, when intended for use on a dynamic mattress, for translating the movement of the air chambers of the mattress contained within the mattress cover to the patient reclining on the top portion of the first fabric layer. The density of the layer of intermediate material is preferably up to 50 kg/rn3, more preferably up to 40 kg/rn3, still more preferably up to 35 kg/m3. The lower limit for the density of the intermediate layer is preferably 10 kg/rn3, more preferably 20 kg/rn3, still more preferably 30 kg/m3. Yet still more preferably, the density of the layer of intermediate material is preferably from 30 kg/m3 to 35 kg/m3.

Further, the layer of intermediate material may be of any stiffness suitable for providing a minimal degree of comfort and an effective barrier against the entry of bodily or other fluids. The stiffness of the layer of intermediate material is preferably up to 180 N/rn, more preferably up to 160 N/m. The minimum stiffness for the intermediate material is preferably 100 N/rn, more preferably 115 N/m. Yet still more preferably, the stiffness of the layer of intermediate material is from 130 to 135 N/rn.

The layer of intermediate material may be secured to one or both of the first fabric layer and/or the second fabric layer, preferably releasably fastened to the same to allow the layer of intermediate material to be removed, as required. Suitable releasable fastening means include studs and hook and loop fasteners.

As noted above, care assistants are known to use different types of pillows of varying sizes and shapes, both for improving the degree of comfort and for (re)positioning a patient in a particular manner. However, these pillows are generally domestic pillows, formed from fibre, feather and/or foam materials. Accordingly, these pillows are easily contaminated and can cause cross-infection. Even pillows covered by a waterproof cover tend to slip on the top surface of the mattress cover, causing the care assistant to continually reposition the patient.

Accordingly, in a preferred embodiment the first fabric layer and second fabric layer of the mattress cover of the present invention form a number of releasable enclosures as hereinbefore described. One or more of the releasable enclosures may contain an intermediate item interposed between the first and second fabric layers, in addition or as an alternative to the layer of intermediate material.

One or more intermediate items may be inserted in a single enclosure, depending on where increased comfort and/or support of the patient is required. The intermediate item may be in addition to a portion of the layer of intermediate material or as an alternative thereto. More preferably, at least one intermediate item is inserted into the enclosure which underlies the portion of the top portion of the first fabric layer underlying the head of the patient. In this way the intermediate item may act as a pillow, providing comfort, whilst still being protected from contamination.

The intermediate items may be formed from the same materials as the intermediate layer as hereinbefore described. Alternatively, the intermediate items may be formed from materials which are generally used to form pillows and/or cushions. Materials used to form domestic pillows and/or cushions are known and commercially available.

Further, the intermediate items may be of any shape suitable for providing maximum comfort and/or support to a patient reclining on the top surface of a mattress. More preferably, if the intermediate item underlies the head of a patient, the intermediate item is preferably formed as a pillow. Any commercially available pillow and/or cushion may be inserted into the appropriate enclosure, in particular as they rarely exceed 75 cm in width. However, for the same reason, they may be easily displaced within the enclosures. Accordingly, it is particularly preferred that the intermediate item is formed to be of the same width as the mattress cover of the present invention.

In addition to providing increased comfort, the intermediate item is useful in aiding the clinician to (re)position a patient in a particular manner. This may be particularly useful if the patient has recently had surgery and for medical reasons cannot lie on their back. Accordingly, it is to be appreciated that intermediate items of any size and/or shape may be designed for positioning the patient in a particular way.

The or each enclosure formed between the first and second fabric layers may have any suitable shape. For example, in many embodiments, the or each enclosure is generally rectangular in shape. However, the enclosure may have any other shape suitable for housing and retaining an item, such as described above.

It is to be appreciated that the mattress cover of the present invention may be formed to cover mattresses of varying sizes, including single, queen and king mattresses. In addition, the mattress cover of the present invention may be formed to cover mattresses of varying thicknesses. More preferably, the mattress cover of the present invention is formed to cover dynamic mattresses, typically used in the healthcare sector.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a mattress assembly comprising a mattress and a mattress cover extending over the mattress, wherein the mattress cover comprises; a first fabric layer comprising: a top portion for extending over the upper surface of a mattress; first and second side portions extending from opposing sides of the top portion and for extending over the opposing sides of the mattress; first and second end portions extending from opposing ends of the top portion and for extending over the opposing ends of the mattress; and a bottom portion for extending over the lower surface of the mattress; a second fabric layer underlying at least a portion of the top portion of the first fabric layer; and a layer of intermediate material interposed between the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer.

The mattress cover of the present invention may be used in conjunction with any mattress. Suitable mattresses are well known in the art and are commercially available.

The mattress cover of the present invention is particular advantageous when used in conjunction with a so-called dynamic mattress' as indicated hereinbefore.

Dynamic mattresses are known in the art and comprise a plurality of elongated, gas-filled chambers extending across the mattress. The gas pressure within the chambers is regulated to provide the necessary support and comfort for the patient.

In addition, known dynamic mattresses are operable to have the gas pressure within some or all of the chambers varied over time, to provide care against the formation of pressure sores and ulcers. Again, such mattresses, their construction and operation are known in the art. Examples of dynamic mattresses include the range of mattresses available from Squirrel Medical Limited, England.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only, having reference to the accompanying drawings, in which; Figure 1 is a perspective view of a mattress encompassed by a mattress cover according to one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is a cross sectional view of the mattress assembly of Figure 1 along the line II -II; and Figure 3 is a cross sectional view of a second embodiment of the mattress assembly of the present invention.

With reference to Figure 1, there is provided a mattress assembly, generally indicated as 2, comprising a mattress 4 and a mattress cover 6 extending over the mattress. The mattress 4 is not visible in Figure 1, but is shown in outline cross section in Figure 2. The mattress cover 6 comprises a first fabric layer, generally indicated as 8, for extending around and encompassing the mattress 4. The first fabric layer 8 comprises a generally rectangular top portion 10, extending over the upper surface of the mattress 4. In addition, the first fabric layer 8 comprises first and second side portions 1 2a, 1 2b extending from opposing side edges of the top portion and extending over the opposing sides of the mattress 4. Further, the first fabric layer 8 comprises first and second end portions 14a, 14b extending from opposing ends of the top portion 10 and extending over the opposing ends of the mattress 4.

Yet still further, the first fabric layerS comprises a bottom portion 16 extending over the lower surface of the mattress 4, as shown in Figure 2. The top portion 10, side portions 12a, 12b, end portions 14a, 14b and bottom portion 16 generally have the same proportions as the underlying mattress to ensure that the mattress cover 6 fits over the mattress 4.

The first fabric layer 8 is formed from a water resistant or repellent materials.

The material of the first fabric layer S is preferably breathable, that is allows the passage of gas and vapour therethrough. More preferably, the first fabric layer 8 comprises polyurethane coated fabrics.

The first fabric layer 8 further comprises a releasable enclosure means in the form of a zip fastener 18 extending along the side portion 1 2a and the end portions 14a and 14b, as shown in Figure 1, for allowing the mattress cover 6 to be opened.

In this way, the mattress cover 6 may be easily removed for disposal, cleaning or decontamination purposes. The releasable zip fastener 18 extends along a sufficient portion of the mattress cover 4 to allow the cover to be removed from the mattress.

As shown in Figure 1, the releasable zip fastener 18, is located in the side and end portions at a distance from the top portion 10 of the first fabric layer 8, and is adjacent the bottom portion 16. Positioning the releasable enclosure means away from the top portion 10 in this way means it is less likely to disturb or cause discomfort to a patient lying on the cover and reduces the chances of liquid entering the cover through the closure means.

The mattress cover 6, further comprises a second fabric layer 20, which underlies the top portion 10 of the first fabric layer 8, as shown in Figure 2. The first fabric layer 8 and the second fabric layer 20 together form an enclosure, indicated as 22. The second fabric layer 20 is provided with a releasable closure means in the form of a zip fastener 24, to allow the enclosure 22 to be opened. By providing the zip fastener 24 in the second fabric layer, the risk of liquid entering the enclosure is reduced.

The mattress cover 6 further comprises an intermediate layer of foam 26 between the top portion 10 of the first fabric layer 8 and the second fabric layer 20, and situated in the enclosure 22. The foam layer 26 is preferably formed from polyurethane foam. However, other suitable materials include memory foam, latex rubber foam, natural (sheepskin, wool and cotton) and synthetic fibres, gels and rubber materials.

The foam layer 26 may lie loosely between the top portion 10 of the first fabric layer B and the second fabric layer 20. Alternatively, the layer of foam 180 is secured to one or both of the first and second fabric layers 8, 20, for example by being sewn onto the second fabric layer 20 or secured by releasable fastening means, such as studs or a hook and loop fastener. In this way, the foam layer 26 is interposed and held between the top portion 10 of the first fabric layer B and the second fabric layer more securely.

The foam layer 26 is of uniform thickness along its length, as shown in Figure 2. The foam layer 26 has a thickness of about 50 mm, a density of 33 kg/m3 and a stiffness of 135 NIm.

The mattress 4 may be any suitable mattress, as is known in the art, details of the mattress being omitted from the figures for clarity. The mattress 4 is most suitably a dynamic mattress, as described hereinbefore. In use, the mattress cover provides a high level of protection of the underlying mattress against damage and infection, in particular arising from the ingress of liquids and bodily fluids from patients. The foam layer 26 functions to provide increased comfort for the patient, in particular when lying on a dynamic mattress, but allows the movement generated by the normal operation of the dynamic mattress and the beneficial effects thereof to be passed to the patient.

Referring to Figure 3, there is provided a mattress assembly generally indicated as 102, comprising a mattress 104 and a mattress cover 106 extending over the mattress. The mattress cover 106 comprises a first fabric layer, generally indicated as 108, for extending around and encompassing the mattress 104. The first fabric layer 08 comprises a generally rectangular top portion 110, extending over the upper surface of the mattress 104. The first fabric layer 108 further comprises first and second side portions, first and second end portions and a bottom portion, having the same general configuration as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

The mattress cover 106 further comprises a second fabric layer 120, which underlies the top portion 110 of the first fabric layer 108, as shown in Figure 3. The first fabric layer 108 and the second fabric layer 120 together form three enclosures, indicated as 1 22a, 1 22b and 1 22c. The enclosures 1 22a to 1 22c are each provided with releasable closure means in the form of a zip fastener 124a, 124b, 124c, to allow the respective enclosure to be opened. By providing each zip fastener in the second fabric layer, as shown in Figure 3, the risk of liquid entering the enclosure is reduced.

Further, the enclosures l22ato 122c are each shaped to receive a layer of foam 126 and/or an intermediate item 128. As discussed above in relation to Figure 2, the layer of foam 126 may be of uniform thickness. Alternatively, the thickness of the layer of foam 126 may vary along its length and/or width, depending on where an increased level of comfort is required.

The intermediate item 128 may be of any suitable size and/or shape for providing maximum comfort and positioning a patient on the top portion 110. The intermediate item 128 shown in Figure 3 is thicker than the layer of intermediate material 126. Accordingly, the intermediate item 128 located at the head of the mattress serves as a pillow.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A mattress cover comprising: a first fabric layer comprising: a top portion for extending over the upper surface of a mattress; first and second side portions extending from opposing sides of the top portion and for extending over the opposing sides of the mattress; first and second end portions extending from opposing ends of the top portion and for extending over the opposing ends of the mattress; and a bottom portion for extending over the lower surface of the mattress; a second fabric layer underlying at least a portion of the top portion of the first fabric layer; and a layer of an intermediate material interposed between the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer.
2. The mattress cover according to claim 1, wherein two or more of the top portion, first and second side portions, first and second end portions and bottom portion are formed from a single piece of fabric.
3. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the first fabric layer is liquid impermeable.
4. The mattress cover according to claim 3, wherein the first fabric layer comprises a Polyurethane coated fabric.
5. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the inner surface of at least the top portion of the first fabric layer is different in colour to the outer surface.
6. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the first fabric layer is formed from separate outer and inner fabric portions.
7. The mattress cover according to claim 6, wherein the outer and inner fabric portions are formed from the same material.
8. The mattress cover according to either of claims 6 or 7, wherein the inner fabric portion is lighter in colour than the outer fabric portion.
9. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the first fabric layer comprises a releasable closure means.
10. The mattress cover according to claim 9, wherein the releasable closure means are located away from the top portion of the first fabric layer.
11. The mattress cover according to claim 10, wherein the releasable closure means are provided in a side portion and/or an end portion of the first fabric layer.
12. The mattress cover according to claim 11, wherein in releasable closure means are located adjacent the bottom portion of the first fabric layer.
13. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the second fabric layer underlies the entire top portion of the first fabric layer.
14. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the second fabric layer is liquid impermeable.
15. The mattress cover according to claim 14, wherein the second layer comprises a Polyurethane coated fabric.
16. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the second fabric layer is formed from the same materials as the first fabric layer.
17. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the second fabric layer and the top portion of the first fabric layer form an enclosure housing the layer of intermediate material.
18. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the second fabric layer is integrally formed with the top portion of the first fabric layer.
19. The mattress cover according to any of claims 1 to 17, wherein the second fabric layer is releasably fastened to the first fabric layer.
20. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein releasable closure means are provided in the first fabric layer and/or the second fabric layer to provide access to the layer of intermediate material.
21. The mattress cover according to claim 20, wherein the releasable closure means are provided in the second fabric layer.
22. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the intermediate material is liquid impermeable.
23. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the intermediate material is a foam.
24. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the layer of intermediate material comprises a plurality of portions of intermediate material arranged side by side.
25. The mattress cover according to claim 24, wherein each portion of the intermediate material is housed within a separate enclosure formed between the first and second fabric layers.
26. The mattress cover according to claim 25, wherein each enclosure is provided with a releasable closure means to provide access to the portion of intermediate material therein.
27. The mattress cover according to any of claims 24 to 26, wherein the portions of intermediate material have different properties.
28. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the layer of intermediate material has a thickness in the range of from 5 to 55 mm.
29. The mattress cover according to claim 28, wherein the layer of intermediate material has a thickness in the range of from 12 to 30 mm.
30. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the thickness of the layer of intermediate material is uniform along the length of the mattress cover.
31. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the intermediate material has a density in the range of from 10 to 50 kg/rn3.
32. The mattress cover according to claim 31, wherein the density of the intermediate material is in the range of from 30 to 35 kg/rn3.
33. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the intermediate material has a stiffness in the range of from 100 to 180 N/rn.
34. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein the layer of intermediate material is fastened to the first fabric layer and/or the second fabric layer.
35. The mattress cover according to claim 34, wherein the fastening is releasable.
36. The mattress cover according to any preceding claim, wherein an intermediate item is provided between the first fabric layer and the top portion of the second fabric layer.
37. The mattress cover according to claim 36, wherein the intermediate item is formed from the same material as the layer of intermediate material.
38. The mattress cover according to claim 37, wherein the intermediate item is formed to provide support to a subject lying on the top portion of the first fabric layer.
39. The mattress cover according to claim 38, wherein the intermediate item is a pillow.
40. A mattress assembly comprising a mattress and a mattress cover extending over the mattress, wherein the mattress cover is as claimed in any preceding claim.
41. The mattress assembly according to claim 40, wherein the mattress is a dynamic mattress.
42. A mattress cover substantially as hereinbefore described having reference to the accompanying Figures 1 or 2, or Figure 3.
43. A mattress assembly substantially as hereinbefore described having reference to the accompanying Figures 1 or 2, or Figure 3.