This hands-on workshop builds occupational therapists’ competence in prescribing pressure care mattresses using a personalised, evidence-informed approach. Participants will compare a variety of support surfaces: high-specification foam, foam-and-air, hybrid (pumpless and pumped), and alternating air, to support clinical reasoning aligned with the latest International Pressure Injury Guidelines.

Attendees will explore mattress features and new pump technology that optimise pressure redistribution, minimise shear, and support individual needs, and will perform clinical checks such as heel offloading. Several case examples will illustrate how injury stages, mobility levels, and comfort needs influence mattress choice.

An innovative new clinical app will be introduced to support surface selection, sizing, and to generate structured reports that simplify funding applications. The session will also demonstrate how correct setup, combined with profiling beds and repositioning strategies, can significantly improve clinical outcomes.

Participants will start in small group rotations, comparing support surfaces hands-on with Q&A integrated throughout. The whole group will then come together for a shared case study. The presenter will demonstrate the clinical app step-by-step, with attendees following along to see how the app guides mattress selection and generates a personalised recommendation.

Participants will attain skills to select appropriate support surfaces based on individual needs, configure mattresses and pumps for optimal pressure care and integrate surfaces with beds and repositioning techniques. They will be able to use an app to streamline selection and documentation
This workshop strengthens core OT capabilities in pressure care prescription, supporting safe, effective, and person-centred care across hospital, aged care, and community settings.