Abstract: In one preferred embodiment, a patient moisture control support surface coverlet to draw moisture from a patient reposed thereon, the coverlet including: an outer layer of an air-tight, water-vapor-permeable material; an inner layer of an air- and vapor-impermeable material underlying the outer layer and sealed to the lower surface of the outer layer to define therebetween a volume to underlie a substantial portion of the patient; apparatus to introduce a flow of air to at least a portion of the volume; and apparatus to permit the flow of air to exit at least a portion of the volume.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a lateral rotation therapy mattress system for a patient, including: a plurality of side-by-side longitudinal air cells; a single air chamber underlying the air cells in proximity thereto and interacting therewith to support the patient; and apparatus to supply pressurized air to the air cells and to the air chamber and to control the levels of pressure in individual ones of and/or groups of the air cells and the air chamber. The mattress may also function as a low loss air bed.

Abstract: In one aspect of the invention, a bed structure having a mattress deck panel and side panels, with internal reinforcing bulkheads and single-piece head- and footboards serving as reinforcing bulkheads at the head and foot of the structure. In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a low-cost air bed employing the above structure. In an additional aspect of the invention, there is provided an air bed which incorporates the air supply and control components within the bed structure itself. In a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a low-noise air flow control pinch valve. In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a single air bag which simulates multiple air bags through the use of welded internal baffles. In yet an additional aspect of the invention, there is provided a bed siderail which is patient-operable.