Managing fire risk in housebound people who smoke and require air-alternating pressure-relieving equipment.

Air-alternating pressure mattresses are advised for housebound patients with poor mobility and at risk of developing pressure ulcers. However, those patients who smoke are under significant dangers of fire risks, especially as the pump to provide alternating pressure requires oxygen. This article describes the development and introduction of a comprehensive risk assessment to help guide community nurses' discussions with any patient on their caseload who smokes and also requires air alternative mattresses.