Dirty and Damaged Hospital Mattresses Put Patients at Risk

Inadequate mattress cleaning methods in hospitals are putting patients at risk of infection and illness, according to a study published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology, Infection Control Today reports.

Investigators assessing the condition of beds and mattresses at four hospitals in the Midwest found that 72% were damaged, 47% required mattress cover replacement, and 25% required replacement of the entire mattress.

Among the mattresses that needed replacing, 95% had large, visible stains. Stains were also the prevalent problem among mattress pads in need of replacement, along with holes.

Researchers found some rust on 24% of the beds, with widespread rust on 9% of them. The fire barrier was damaged on 11% of the beds.

“The results of this study reaffirm what previous research has shown—that cleaning methods used at hospitals today are inadequate, potentially endangering patients,” said study author Dr. Edmond A. Hooker, author of the study and a professor at Xavier University in Cincinnati.

As mattresses are the highest-touch element for a hospitalized patient, the risk of infection is potentially higher with a damaged mattress. After analyzing the study results, researchers concluded that hospitals must regularly inspect all mattresses and bed frames—regardless of age—to minimize infection risks for patients.