Effects of different bed sheets on bed climate and thermal response

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate how bed climate changes when disposable waterproof sheets are used in addition to usual ones. Methods: Thirty healthy female students (20.1 ± 1.1 years) consented to participate in the study, and were divided into three groups (cotton sheet only, additional disposable rayon sheet, additional polyester sheet). The skin temperatures of the subjects, bed climates (bed temperatures and relative humidity) and subjective sensations were measured for 45 min. Results: Both skin and bed climate temperatures showed significant increases as time passed (P < 0.05). The humidity on disposable waterproof sheets was the highest among the three groups (P < 0.05). All subjects gradually began to feel warmer and wetter. Conclusion: These results suggest nurses should consider not only cost and convenience when they use waterproof sheets, but also bed climate. This will also help to prevent pressure ulcers.