Table 3 PCM cooling mattresses offer relative advantage compared to existing cooling devices
Feature | PCM cooling mattresses | High-tech cooling devices | Low-tech cooling devices |
|---|---|---|---|
Cooling induction time | Rapid | Rapid | Slow |
Temperature fluctuations | No | No | Yes |
Slow and controlled rewarming | Slow and controlled | Slow and controlled | Hard to control |
Cost | ~£1800 | ~£20,000-30,000 | Low cost but higher risks of complications |
Portable | Yes | Not always | Yes |
Recurring expenses | No | Yes (e.g. disposable cooling blankets for Blanketrol II) | Yes (e.g. ice packs) |
Staff input for device monitoring | Moderate | Low | High |
Training | Low | High | Low |
Affected by environmental temperature | No | No | Yes |
Risk of adverse events | Minimal | Minimal | High |