Fluid Immersion Simulation Mattress Systems

What Is Fluid Immersion Simulation (FIS)?

Fluid Immersion Simulation (FIS) is an active therapy that reduces pressure by simulating how the body would behave in a fluid medium.

The system automatically adjusts to the patient's weight, body shape, and position, creating an individualized immersion profile that supports minimal tissue deformation. This near-neutral buoyant state helps maintain normal blood flow, which is essential for wound healing.

FIS does not rely on alternating pressure cycles. Instead, it provides constant pressure redistribution, making it effective for patients with pressure injuries, skin grafts, or a high risk of soft tissue damage.

Its ability to eliminate gradient shear forces also improves comfort during prolonged rest.

For comparison, users may also consider alternating pressure mattress systems or low-air-loss alternating therapy mattress systems. View our full collection of fluid immersion simulation mattress systems to explore available options.

What Are the Benefits of FIS Mattress Systems?

FIS mattress systems offer a range of therapeutic and practical benefits that support recovery, reduce complications, and improve care efficiency. Key advantages include:

• Pressure redistribution: These systems continuously adapt to the patient's body, evenly distributing weight across the support surface. This reduces concentrated pressure on high-risk areas and helps protect soft tissue from damage.
• Reduced risk of pressure ulcers: FIS technology creates a stable, near-neutral buoyant state that minimizes soft tissue distortion. This lowers the likelihood of pressure injuries, especially in patients with limited mobility.
• Pain relief and comfort: By reducing surface tension and simulating immersion, the system supports the body without rigid pressure points, offering greater comfort for patients who require long periods of bed rest.
• Individualized immersion profile: Some models use dolphin fluid immersion simulation to automatically measure the patient's weight and body characteristics, allowing for more accurate support.
• Improved tissue perfusion: By eliminating gradient shear forces, FIS systems maintain normal blood flow, leading to better tissue oxygenation and faster wound healing.
• Ease of integration: Many FIS mattresses are compatible with existing bed frames, making them suitable for both home and clinical environments.
• Lower caregiver strain: These systems reduce the need for frequent repositioning, helping to prevent musculoskeletal injuries among caregivers.
• Hygienic design: Removable covers and cleanable surfaces help support infection control protocols in both short- and long-term care settings.
• Quiet performance: Silent operation enhances patient rest and minimizes disruption in care environments.
• Support for complex conditions: FIS systems are beneficial for patients with spinal cord injuries, skin grafts, chronic wounds, or stage 3–4 pressure sores. Certain models include low air loss or additional features to manage moisture and skin integrity.

Skyward Medical Is Authorized

How FIS Compares: Fluid vs Foam, Air, Gel

Support surfaces vary in effectiveness based on how they manage pressure and adapt to the body. Fluid Immersion Simulation offers a distinct advantage for patients with complex needs. Below is a comparison to help guide your decision:

• Foam mattresses provide basic pressure relief and are typically used for patients at lower risk. However, they offer limited contouring and do not respond dynamically to body movement.
• Air mattresses, such as those in our air mattress for hospital bed collection, use alternating pressure to reduce localized pressure points. While helpful, they offer less consistent immersion and may feel unstable to some users.
• Gel overlay mattresses, found in our gel overlay mattress collection, provide moderate conforming support. These are static systems and do not adjust in real time.
• Fluid immersion systems offer three-dimensional volumetric support. Unlike other surfaces, they continuously adapt to the patient’s weight and position. For individuals requiring higher weight capacity, our bariatric mattress collection includes fluid-compatible options designed for advanced support.

Who Needs a Fluid Immersion Mattress?

Fluid immersion mattresses are ideal for patients with advanced wounds or high-pressure risk. Those with Stage 3 or Stage 4 pressure ulcers need consistent pressure redistribution and steady blood flow to support healing.

Post-operative patients recovering from skin grafts or flap surgeries also benefit from reduced tissue deformation.

These systems are effective for individuals who are chronically bedridden, have spinal cord injuries, or cannot be repositioned often. In such cases, continuous support helps lower the risk of complications.

Bariatric patients also require stable weight distribution across a wider surface area. Overall, fluid immersion simulation offers a reliable solution for improving comfort and promoting recovery in patients with complex medical needs.

Most Purchased FIS Mattress System

The Joerns DolphinCare Integrated Bed System is among the most frequently chosen options for those seeking a clinically effective fluid immersion simulation system.

Joerns DolphinCare Integrated Bed System

The DolphinCare Integrated Bed System combines advanced therapy with a durable frame to meet the needs of both patients and caregivers. It delivers consistent fluid immersion simulation while supporting a range of clinical environments.

Designed for high-risk individuals, the system automatically adjusts to body weight and movement to maintain a near-neutral buoyant state. This minimizes tissue deformation and supports improved tissue perfusion, making it ideal for wound healing and recovery.

Key Details

• Advanced therapy system designed for pressure redistribution and wound treatment
• Integrated support surface creating fluid immersion without external mattress systems
• Dolphin system automatically measures the patient’s weight and adjusts the immersion profile
• Reduces soft tissue distortion and eliminates gradient shear forces
• Promotes early mobility and reduces caregiver strain
• Compatible with various care settings and room configurations
• Strong frame with high weight capacity for added safety and stability

How to Choose the Right FIS Mattress

Selecting the right fluid immersion mattress depends on several key factors. First, match the system to the patient's weight and body type to ensure proper immersion and support.

Choose the correct size, whether standard, bariatric, or pediatric, based on specific needs. It is also important to confirm that the system includes hospital-grade controls and a reliable battery with at least a 12-hour life for uninterrupted therapy.

Lastly, verify compatibility with existing bed frames and review warranty terms for long-term use. These details help ensure the system performs safely and effectively in your care setting.

Invest in Healing with a Fluid Immersion Mattress at Skyward Medical

Fluid immersion systems offer a reliable solution for patients requiring advanced wound care and pressure management. At Skyward Medical, we provide clinically effective options designed for safety, comfort, and performance.

Browse our certified FIS mattress systems and give patients the cutting-edge care they deserve.

For additional support solutions, explore our rotating adjustable beds, adjustable beds for seniors, best hi-low beds for the elderly, and best hi-low beds for disabled adults.

Sources

• Effectiveness of a Fluid Immersion Simulation System in the Acute Post‐Operative Management of Pressure Ulcers
• A Small-Scale Evaluation of the Dolphin Fluid Immersion Simulation® Mattress

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Fluid Immersion Mattresses Help Reduce the Need for Frequent Repositioning?

Yes. The even pressure distribution allows patients to stay in one position longer without increasing the risk of pressure injuries. This helps reduce caregiver workload and supports patient comfort.

Are Fluid Immersion Mattresses Suitable for Bariatric Patients?

Yes. Many models are built to support higher weight capacities while still maintaining therapeutic pressure relief and minimizing soft tissue deformation.

Do Fluid Immersion Mattresses Require a Special Hospital Bed Frame?

No. Most systems are compatible with standard or adjustable bed frames. However, always check product dimensions and power requirements to ensure a proper fit.