Abstract: A low air loss bed having an integral source of air mounted to the frame thereof. Sets of air bags are mounted on the frame, each set of air bags corresponding to a portion of the body of the patient to be supported on the bed. Separate gas manifolds are provided, each of which connects a single set of air bags to the gas source. Individually controlled valves are used to adjust the amount of air which flows to the gas manifolds and on into the air bags. Also, means are provided operable to selectively route a flow of additional air to the gas manifold which supplies air to the air bags which support the heavier portions of the patient. A low air loss air bag is provided, as is apparatus for adjusting the amount of air supplied to each set of air bags and for controlling the temperature of the air delivered. Also provided is a means for simultaneously fully inflating all the air bags and means for simultaneously deflating all the air bags.