An inbuilt early warning system allows soiled mattresses to be identified and replaced as soon as they become contaminated.
Designer: Helen Hamlyn Centre, Royal College of Art
The problem
The design of existing mattresses makes it difficult to detect a puncture in their waterproof plastic covering, allowing bacteria such as C. difficile to contaminate the inner foam core.
The solution
A layer of hydrochromic ink in the mattress covering changes colour as soon as fluids seep through to the foam core, alerting staff to the risk of contamination.
How it works
The mattress cover is made up of three layers: transparent polyurethane, a layer of hydrochromic ink and an inner nylon knit. Beneath this is the inner foam core.
If the waterproof cover is penetrated by a sharp object, such as a hypodermic needle, or wears out, fluids may seep in to the mattress. The layer of hydrochromic ink in the mattress covering changes colour as soon as it comes into contact with any fluids.
Because the cover of the mattress is visible every time a member of staff changes the bed sheets, contamination can be identified and mattresses disposed of much earlier than current practice allows.