What is auto-regression on beds and stretchers?

Auto-regression is a function found on a number of beds and stretchers, which means the backrest moves backwards slightly when it’s being profiled.

Some beds and stretchers, such as the MultiFlow Stretcher, have double auto-regression, which means the knee break is also auto-regressing; meaning it will move forward slightly when it’s being profiled. 

What are the benefits of auto-regression?

Reduced shear and friction

Auto-regression allows for the natural lengthening of a patient’s body during profiling into a sitting position, which reduces shear and friction significantly. 

On a bed without auto-regression, it’s common to feel like the bed is compressing your body when it’s being profiled, and the amount of shear and friction between your body and the mattress increases.

Improved pressure distribution

Similarly, auto-regression allows for more of the patient’s body to be in contact with the mattress platform, improving pressure distribution and decreasing the risk of pressure damage over extended periods of time.

Facilitates patient movement and positioning

Auto-regression also allows the patient to have more room in the bed, facilitating easier movement and positioning, which again helps to reduce the risk of pressure damage over time. 

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