Sizewise SW Alternate User manual

User
Manual
#8063 Rev. 8.0
03.04.2021
User Manual
SW Alternate™Mattress System
TM

1
Table of Contents
Definition of Symbols...................................................................................................................................2
Manual Definitions .......................................................................................................................................2
Warnings and Cautions.............................................................................................................................2
Device Information.......................................................................................................................................4
Description of the Device.........................................................................................................................4
Indications for Use....................................................................................................................................4
Specifications................................................................................................................................................5
Unpacking and Set-Up Instructions..............................................................................................................6
Operating Instructions...................................................................................................................................7
Patient Care Functions..................................................................................................................................9
Placing the Patient on the Mattress Surface .............................................................................................9
CPR...........................................................................................................................................................9
Positioning the Patient..............................................................................................................................9
Backrest Up or Fowler Position................................................................................................................9
Prone Position.........................................................................................................................................10
Bedpan Placement & Removal...............................................................................................................10
Removing the Patient from the Mattress Surface...................................................................................10
Control Unit At-A-Glance ..........................................................................................................................11
Mattress At-A-Glance.................................................................................................................................12
Keypad Quick Reference............................................................................................................................14
Maintenance................................................................................................................................................16
Mattress Cleaning Instructions....................................................................................................................19
Laundry Instructions:..............................................................................................................................20
Control Unit Cleaning Instructions:........................................................................................................22
Safety Tips..................................................................................................................................................23
Seven Zones of Bed Rail Entrapment.........................................................................................................23
Storage and Disposal..............................................................................................................................24
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC).......................................................................................................25
Troubleshooting..........................................................................................................................................30
Frequently Ordered Parts............................................................................................................................31
Warranty Information .................................................................................................................................32
User Assistance Information.......................................................................................................................33
HEPA Filter.................................................................................................................................................17

2
Definition of Symbols
Manual Definitions
Throughout this manual different type fonts and icons are used to aid user readability and
understanding of the content. Below are some examples.
—Standard Text Used for regular information.
—Bold Face Text Emphasizes a word or phrase.
—NOTE: Sets apart special information or important instruction clarification.
Warnings and Cautions
Warnings/Cautions: This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of
important operating, maintenance or servicing instructions. Disregarding a
warning could result in patient and/or user injury as well as damage to equipment.
Electrical Shock Hazard Warning: This symbol is intended to alert the user to
the presence of electrical shock hazards. It is important to follow all instructions
and special procedures to avoid electrical shock to the operator, care provider
and/or patient.
Fuse Specifications
Federal Communications
Commission
Unit Grounding Specifications
European CE Marking
Manufacture Date
Sizewise Logo
Edison Testing Laboratories Logo

3
Power Cord Label
The hazards and warnings
are indicated on the
shipping container by this
label.
This symbol signifies that the device is
properly protected from electrical shock.
Leakage
Test
Point
This symbol marks the location of the
leakage test point screw.
This symbol marks the location and
specification of the fuse.

4
Device Information
Description of the Device
The SW Alternate™ Clinically Effective Low Air Loss Mattress System is comprised of a
specialized inflatable air bladder (air mattress) and an electrically powered Blower/Control Unit.
Purpose of the Device
The purpose of the SW AlternateTM Clinically Effective Low Air Loss Mattress System is to
provide therapeutic benefit to patients at risk, or suffering from pressure ulcers.
The active component that has contact with the patient is a specialized, multi-cell air mattress
sized to fit a standard hospital bed frame. The air mattress serves as a replacement to the original
mattress and is equipped with 5 air tubes with connectors that mate with the Air Blower/Control
Unit. The Control Unit is a self-contained, totally enclosed module that hangs by hinged hooks
on the footboard of the bed. If the footboard is too wide, hang a blower hanger bar on the
footboard. If no hanger bar is available, use best judgment on blower placement.
NOTE: Do Not Place Blower Under The Bed!
The Control Unit is provided with a detachable hospital grade electrical cord and has a control
panel with selector switches and indicator lights. The switches and indicators are protected under
a flexible membrane to keep out liquid spills and enhance cleanup and sanitation. Inside the
Control Unit is a variable output blower and manifold that allow the air mattress to operate in a
static mode or provide pulsating pressure variations within the mattress. There is also a printed
circuit board which operates the electrical controls.
Indications for Use
The SW Alternate™ is a therapeutic mattress that provides either active or reactive pressure
redistribution and clinically effective low air loss therapy. When mobility, moisture and/or
inactivity are healthcare concerns, it is indicated for the prevention and treatment of pressure
ulcers and other skin related injuries.

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Specifications
SW AlternateTM
Control Unit
Mode of Use………………………………………………………………………………………………… For Indoor Use Only
Duty Cycle...............………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Continuous
Controller Dimensions………………………….…..…… (LxWxH) 7.5”(19 cm) x 18.5”(47 cm) x 12”(30cm)
Controller Weight……………………………………………………………………………………………… 16 Lbs. (7.26 kg)
Operating Temperature…………………………………………………………………….. -18°C to 35°C (0°F to 95°F)
Alarms………………………………………………………………………………………. Power Failure and Low Pressure
Electrical
Power Requirements………………………………………………………………………120VAC 60Hz 6.3A Maximum
Electric Shock Protection…………………………………………………………………………………………………..Class 1
Degree of Shock Protection……………………………………………………………………………………………….Type B
Maximum Relative Humidity.....................................................................................................95%
Storage Temperature…………………………………………………….……………………-18°C to 35°C (0°F to 95°F)
Environmental Conditions……………Product must be stored and transported in packaging free of
……………………………………………………..moisture and dust

User Serviceable Parts……….…Hooks, Hook Brackets, Absorber Pad, Power Cord, Fuses and Filters
Power Cord…………………………………………………..16’ (5 meters) detachable with hospital grade plug
Fuses……………………………………………………………………………T 6.3A 250V….5mm x 20 mm…Time Delay
Mattresses
Standard Dimensions 35”………..………………….(LxWxH) 80”(203.2cm) x 35”(88.9cm) x 10”(25.4cm)
Standard Mattress Weight 35”………………………………………………………………………….….19 lbs(8.62 kg)
Standard Weight Capacity 35”………………………………………………………350-600 lbs (158.8-272.35 kg)
Top Cover Material…………………………………………..…..70 Denier Polyurethane Coated Nylon Taffeta

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Air Blower/Control Unit
Unpacking and Set-Up Instructions
The two principle components of the SW Alternate™ Mattress System are a specialized air
inflatable bladder (Air Mattress) and an electrically powered, Air Blower/Control Unit.
UNPACKING / PARTS BREAKDOWN:
Parts:
- Air Blower/Control Unit
- Detachable Power Cord (Hospital Grade)
- Clinically Effective Low Air Loss Mattress Replacement
- Mattress Cover
Unpacking Instructions: Remove the products from the packing material and examine for
shipping damage. If damage is detected in shipping, contact the freight company and file a
damage complaint immediately.
Environmental Conditions:
CAUTION: Keep out of direct sunlight.
DO NOT expose to temperatures below 0°F (-18°C) or above 95°F (35°C).
DO NOT expose to moisture or areas of humidity greater than 95%.
Beware of Electromagnetic Interference from Radio Wave Sources such as: Hand-held portable
transceivers with the antenna mounted directly to the transmitting unit including citizen band
(CB) radios, “walkie-talkies, security, fire and police transceivers, cellular telephones and other
personal communication devices.
NOTE: Some cellular telephones and similar devices transmit signals while they are ON, even
when not being used.
Directions for Mattress Placement: Replace the existing bed mattress with Clinically Effective
Low Air Loss Mattress. Secure Air Mattress to the bed frame with straps provided.
Warning or Safety Instructions relating to setup:
WARNING: (120V unit) Make sure the power cord is plugged into a properly grounded
hospital grade 120V A/C outlet.
Clinically Effective
Low Air Loss
Mattress and Cover
Detachable 16’
Hospital Grade
Power Cord

7
Operating Instructions
The SW Alternate™ Mattress System can be placed on any conventional bed used in hospitals,
nursing homes or a home medical bed. The original bed mattress should be removed and stored
in an appropriate place. The following steps should be completed in installing the system:
1. Remove standard mattress from the bed.
2. Replace standard mattress with the SW Alternate™ mattress. (Be sure air tubing is at the
foot end of the bed).
3. Strap air support mattress to bed frame on all four sides with straps provided.
4. Place Control Unit on the footboard of the frame using the two hinged hooks located on
the back of the unit.
5. Attach the air tubing to the Control Unit, being sure it snaps in tight. (Be sure air tubing is
not kinked and is unobstructed).
6. Plug the control unit into a grounded hospital grade A/C outlet.
7. Turn the master power switch ON, located on the side of the unit.
8. Press the AUTO FIRM button for quick inflation. (see keypad quick reference section)
9. Place the patient on the bed AFTER inflation to ensure the air cells do not become
twisted or kinked.
10. After inflation, press the AUTO FIRM button again to exit Auto Firm mode. (If the
Control Unit is left in Auto Firm mode for 10 minutes then it will automatically return to
the previous mode of operation).
Modes of Operation
NOTE: See Keypad Quick Reference (table of contents) for further illustration.
1. Static Mode
a. Press the STATIC button.
b. Set the desired firmness with the SOFT and FIRM buttons on the control panel.
2. Alternate Mode
c. Press the alternate button to activate alternate mode. The blower will
automatically on the 3-minute alternating cycle.
d. Press the Cycle Time button until the desired time is shown by the indicator lights
above the button. (Cycle times are adjustable from 3-20 min.).
3. Fowler Mode
e. Manual Fowler
i. When elevating the head section of the mattress, press the FOWLER
button to increase airflow for seat inflation.
ii. After the head section of mattress is lowered, press the FOWLER button
to exit Fowler mode.
f. Auto Fowler (if equipped) Fowler Mode activates in two stages: 1.) When the
head deck angle reaches 25 degrees the fowler adds 15% pressure. 2.) When the
head deck angle reaches 45 degrees or above pressure is increased to 30% total.

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i. When elevating the head section of the mattress, the FOWLER mode will
automatically turn on. Fowler mode will automatically turn off when the
head section of the mattress is lowered.
4. Lock Out Feature
a. After 3 minutes of inactivity to blower settings, the lockout feature will activate
automatically.
b. Press and hold the LOCKOUT button to exit lock out status (hold approximately
3-5 seconds).
5. CPR Function (Push Button or Dial)
a. CPR button
i. Push the CPR button to activate the CPR function. (CPR alarm and light
will come on. After 10 seconds the alarm will beep every 5 seconds and
the light will start flashing).
ii. Push CPR button again to exit; Control Unit will return to the previous
mode.
b. CPR Dial
i. Turn the Control Unit’s CPR Dial clockwise to the CPR ON position.
ii. After mattress deflation is complete, turn off the Control Unit.
IN THE EVENT THE ALARM SOUNDS, THE INDICATOR LIGHT WILL APPEAR
INDICATING EITHER POWER FAILURE OR LOW PRESSURE. SEE THE
TROUBLESHOOTING SECTION INDICATED IN THE TABLE OF CONTENTS.
The CPR Dial is
located on the front
of the unit next to
the control panel.
The CPR button
is located on the
front center of the
Control Unit.

9
Patient Care Functions
Placing the Patient on the Mattress Surface
Place the patient on the mattress surface from a bed or stretcher with a transfer device. The
mattress should be set in the Auto Firm mode. In order to ensure proper immersion and
envelopment of the patient, the user should:
1. Position patient on surface in center of bed.
2. Initialize soft/firm settings on control unit.
3. Wait a moment to allow internal sensors to activate pressure redistribution. Generally,
depending on patient body makeup, initial pressure redistribution is complete in
approximately 2-3 minutes.
4. Elevate the head of the bed to at least 30 degrees.
5. Unzip the mattress and visually inspect the height of the cells for sufficient inflation.
There should be several inches between the patient and the frame of the bed. Adjust the
air flow accordingly. Ask the patient if they can feel the bed frame beneath them. If yes,
add air incrementally. Repeat until patient no longer feels the frame beneath them.
6. If the patient cannot reply verbally, unzip the mattress and visually inspect the height of
the cells for sufficient air inflation. There should be several inches between the patient
and the frame of the bed. Adjust the air flow accordingly.
CPR: The standards for life support recommended by the American Heart Association for
performing CardioPulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) recommend a hard level surface for
performing CPR, moving the person to the floor if possible. For performing CPR, place the CPR
board, lower the head of the bed, position the patient on their back and follow standard CPR
procedures of the facility.
Positioning the Patient
When moving a patient the control unit should be in the Auto Firm Mode.
To reposition the patient, change the control unit to Auto Firm Mode. This makes the mattress
surface firm and facilitates the repositioning of the patient with less strain on the care provider.
When the patient has been repositioned, press auto firm to return to the previous setting.
NOTE: DO NOT leave a patient unattended on the mattress surface with the safety side rails in
the down position. When leaving a patient, secure the safety side rails in the up position. Make
sure the safety side rails are high enough to properly protect the patient when the mattress is fully
inflated, while continuing to be mindful of the FDA guidelines on bed rail entrapment.
Backrest Up or Fowler Position
When the patient’s backrest is elevated, it may be necessary to manually increase the mattress
firmness to compensate for the additional weight placed in the center portion of the mattress.
Observe the patient for a short time after raising the backrest to make sure the buttocks and thigh
areas are not “bottomed-out”.

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Prone Position
DO NOT leave a prone patient on the mattress surface. If the patient is unable to move without
help, the patient’s airway may be compromised. If the patient is to be kept prone for an extended
period of time, consult a Sizewise representative for assistance.
Bedpan Placement & Removal
Position the patient’s hips over the center of the mattress. Using Static Mode, lower the pressure
setting with the Firm/Soft button. Turn the patient into the side-lying position and place the
bedpan.
The pressure in the center section of the mattress will lower to make inserting the bedpan easier.
The firmness setting may be adjusted to increase the firmness of the center section after the pan
is placed in position.
When the bedpan is to be removed, logroll the patient off the bedpan and remove it. Readjust the
firmness level to the appropriate setting. Select Static mode and wait for the mattress to
completely re-inflate before activating Alternate Pressure mode again.
NOTE: Always remove the bedpan before entering the Alternate mode.
Removing the Patient from the Mattress Surface
If the patient is to be removed with a transfer lift, set the control unit into Auto Firm mode.
Allow the mattress to firm and position the patient into the lift. When the patient has exited the
bed, the controller can be turned off.
If the patient can sit up and is mobile, lower the firmness level to the lowest setting and wait for
the mattress to soften in the middle. The patient can sit up and the mattress will conform to the
body making a more stable platform for patient egress. When the patient has exited the bed, the
controller can be turned off.

11
Control Unit At-A-Glance
Control Panel
Keyboard
CPR
Function
Operating
Instruction
Reference
Model Label
Sizewise Logo
Fuse Locations
Main
Power
Switch
Power Cord Receptacle
U.S.
Patent
Sticker
Power
Fail
Alarm
Switch
On/Off Side
Panel
Removable foam
filter/ HEPA Filter
Sizewise Rentals
Serial Number
Collapsible Hook
Sunflower
Medical Serial
Number
Auto Fowler
Attachment
Service
Port
Hose
Connection
CPC
Connection
Leakage Test
Point

12
Mattress At-A-Glance

13

14
Keypad Quick Reference
See the following page for explanation of features.

15
The features available on the Alternate™ Mattress System front panel are as follows:
Note: This chart is to be used as a reference ONLY. Final patient settings must be completed by
the patient’s caregiver.
Locks all functions,
automatically locks after 3
minutes. To unlock, press
& hold for 3 seconds.
Enables alternation with
pressure sensor regulating
airflow. Alternate cycle
times are adjustable from
3-20 min..
Quickly inflates mattress
to maximum firmness.
Automatically times out
in 10 minutes. To
manually exit press a
second time.
Enable static low air
loss therapy with
pressure sensors
regulating airflow.
Use when head
section of bed is
elevated. Increases
airflow to the
mattress.
Adjusts surface toward
firmer level. Increases
air flow.
Adjusts surface toward
softer level. Decreases air
flow.
Resets the audible alarm.
Light will remain
illuminated until problem
is corrected.

16
Maintenance
CAUTION: The mattress requires regular maintenance to ensure performance
and avoid premature wear, damage and injury.
Check the items on this chart at the indicated intervals. If any of the items are loose, worn, bent
or distorted immediately have them checked and/or repaired by an authorized Sizewise
technician. Frequent maintenance and servicing will improve performance and extend product
life. Weekly One Month Three Months
Foam Filter X
Top Cover X
Mattress Base X
Mattress Connections X
Control Unit Operation X
Power Cord X
The following is an equipment safety checklist that can be used with the maintenance chart to
maintain and service this product:
Inspect top cover for punctures, rips, tears or damage.
Inspect mattress base for punctures, rips, tears or damage.
Connect the control unit and verify proper operation (if installed).
Ensure air filter is clean and properly installed into control unit (if installed).
Ensure mattress is clean/disinfected and patient ready.
All power cords are fastened in a manner to keep them free from moving or pinching parts. At
any time parts are replaced, all cords should be secured into proper position to prevent damage.
Air Filter (Open cell foam filter)
The foam air filter on the back of the control unit must be
cleaned weeklywith disinfectant solution (see cleaning section).
Replacement of the foam filter is recommended every 6 months.
The filter is easily removed and
reinserted through the gap in the
back housing.
HEPA Filter
X

17
−Locate and remove factory filter on the top and back of the case.
−Filter is easily removed and reinserted through the gap in the back of the case.
−Ensure HEPA filter is clean.
−Place HEPA filter on front of factory foam filter.
−Re-install filters in blower case.
HEPA Filter
HEPA: (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter.
NOTE: HEPA filters aid in contamination control for facilities. HEPA filters do not filter out
gases and odor molecules such as chemical vapors and cigarette smoke.
NOTE: HEPA filter must be used in conjunction with the manufacturer supplied foam filter.
DO NOT attempt to install HEPA filter without the original equipment foam filter.
NOTE: Ensure factory open cell foam filter is completely dry before placing HEPA filter in
unit.
NOTE: The HEPA filter is to be installed in applicable models and pumps in conjunction
with the next factory filter cleaning procedure.
Installation
NOTE: Installation and/or handling of HEPA filter requires PPE. Service personnel
should wear a mask, gloves, and protective clothing to avoid exposure to possible
contaminants.
NOTE: Tools are not required for installation of filter.
NOTE: Ensure unit is off and/or removed from power source prior to servicing or
replacement of filter or HEPA filter.

18
Maintenance
NOTE: DO NOT MODIFY HEPA filter for installation. Order filter from Sizewise to receive
filter with correct dimensions.
NOTE: DO NOT attempt to clean HEPA filters, as they are to be removed and replaced
only.
−HEPA filters must be replaced monthly.
−Follow Installation procedure for monthly replacement of HEPA filter.
Troubleshooting
Storage
If you store your product for more than 30 days, we recommend:
−Remove HEPA filter.
−Place HEPA filter in an air-tight plastic bag or plastic wrap ensuring filter is sealed
to prevent exposure to outside contaminants.
−When you wish to operate product, reinstall HEPA filter.
Problem Cause Solution
Reduced Air flow Possible clogged filter Replace HEPA filter
Excessive noise Possible obstruction
Clogged filter
Ensure no
obstructions
Replace HEPA filter
Odor Excessive contaminants in
HEPA filter
Replace HEPA filter
HEPA Filter

19
Mattress Cleaning Instructions
WARNING and CAUTION:
It is recommended that gloves and protective clothing be worn at all times during
cleaning and disinfecting.
DO NOT autoclave.
NOTE: Improper cleaning, rinsing or the incorrect use of cleaning agents can lead to premature
fabric discoloration and breakdown of the fabric’s fluid-resistance, stain-resistance and fabric
strength. Properly rinsing all cleaning agents and disinfecting chemicals is a critical step in
extending the life of covers on medical mattresses and support surfaces.
Over time, cleaning solutions may cause damage to the integrity of the fabrics used for support
surfaces. Cleaning agents that are strong enough to be efficacious cleaners and disinfectants may
cause degradation of the same fabrics on which they are being used.
To minimize the negative impact of cleaning agents:
Contact time must be monitored and kept to the required time identified on the
manufacturer’s instructions.
All cleaning solutions must be diluted in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
All covers must be rinsed after every cleaning cycle. Rinsing of the support surface
covers with clean water as the immediate step after the disinfection process is
fundamental to extending the usable life of the covers.
NOTE: Only the outer cover of the mattress requires cleaning and maintenance. Disassembly
of the support surface for maintenance of internal components is not recommended. DO NOT
use harsh solvents or cleaners. Special care should be used to not puncture the mattress with
needles or sharp instruments. This may result in loss of integrity of the mattress cover or internal
components.
Recommended EPA Registered Disinfectants:
Wex-Cide 128 (Wexford Labs), EPA Reg. #34810-31
Equipment must be disinfected using an EPA registered, hospital-grade disinfectant, according to
the manufacturer’s recommendations for use.
Recommended Stain Remover(s):
Stain Away (ABC Compounding)
This stain remover is effective in removing most difficult stains and is intended to be used in its
original concentration.