Abstract: A hospital bed mattress including a removable insert which is positioned at one transverse edge of the mattress. The insert is slidable transversely relative to the mattress to expose a cavity into which additional equipment, such as a bed pan can be placed. The insert includes slide construction which is retained in association with the mattress to prevent the insert from falling after it is moved transversely to expose the cavity. The insert also includes a handle which faces in the direction of the patient to permit a bedridden patient to push the insert outwardly to expose the cavity and also, to pull the insert back into its original position to restore the mattress to its original condition.