Abstract: A mattress apparatus including a foam layer, an inflatable air cushion superposed with the foam layer, a first pneumatic line in fluid communication with the air cushion, and a non-shearing layer covering at least a portion of the air cushion. The air cushion can be inflated to support a patient such that the air cushion contours the patient's body and disperse pressure portions over a larger area, thereby helping eliminate pressure points which can cause or worsen skin wounds. The non-shearing layer can help prevent further tearing or pulling of the skin as a patient moves on the mattress. The foam layer can comprise viscoelastic polyurethane. The apparatus can include a removable cover at least partially surrounding the foam layer, inflatable air cushion, pneumatic first line, and non-shearing layer. An air passage can be defined through the removable cover.