WO2025240724A1

WO2025240724A1 - Patient interface pressure control using soft actuators

Info

Publication number: WO2025240724A1
Application number: PCT/US2025/029533
Authority: WO
Inventors: Darrell L. Borgman; Douglas E. Borgman; Taylor FRANKLIN; Brain J. HOFFMAN; Nicole Johannigman; Jnanesha RAMEGOWDA; Frank E. Sauser; Kathryn Ruth Smith; Taylor VOHLAND; Timothy Michael VOLK
Original assignee: Hill Rom Services Inc
Current assignee: Hill Rom Services Inc
Priority date: 2024-05-17
Filing date: 2025-05-15
Publication date: 2025-11-20
Anticipated expiration: 2026-11-17

Abstract

An adjustable patient interface includes an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient that includes a fluid filled cushion positioned to support the patient. The fluid filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in an electrical parameter to change an interface pressure, shape, and/or dimension of the bladder. The adjustable patient interface includes a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion. The controller is operable to vary the electrical parameter applied to the liquid to vary the bladder shape and/or detect a change in the electrical parameter.

Description

PATIENT INTERFACE PRESSURE CONTROL USING SOFT ACTUATORS

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C § 119(e), of U.S. Provisional Application Number 63/649,084, filed 17 May 2024, U.S. Provisional Application Number 63/661,821, filed 19 June 2024, U.S. Provisional Application Number 63/714,799, filed 31 October 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application Number 63/714,800, filed 31 October 2024, the disclosures of each of which are now expressly incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an adjustable patient interface for a patient support apparatus or accessory. More specifically, the present disclosure is related to an adjustable patient interface having fluid filled cushions that vary an interface pressure applied by the adjustable patient interface.

[0003] Patient support apparatuses or accessories can cause poor interface pressure where the apparatuses or accessories contact or support a patient. This can lead to discomfort and potential skin breakdown. The variables that affect the integrity of a patient's skin are of concern in hospitals and health care facilities around the world. Some examples of such variables are pressure, temperature, moisture, circulation, and skin shear. Lack of management in these areas can lead to lesions, pressure injuries, nerve damage, and destruction of tissue. Additionally, lying on a surface over extended periods can result in injury to a patient’s skin. When a patient is in a hospital bed, such as in a critical care hospital bed, the patient is often immobile due to sedation or serious injury.

[0004] The use of foam pads, gel pads, and inflatable air bladders in surfaces or mattresses of patient support apparatuses or accessories to help with interface pressure is well known. While these options provide an ability to reduce or control the interface pressure that supports the patient, they still have their shortcomings. A need exists for systems to control interface pressure that allow for quiet, instantaneous operation with localized control over smaller, specific areas of a patient.

[0005] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a patient monitoring layer for a patient support apparatus or accessory. More specifically, the present disclosure is related to a patient monitoring interface having fluid filled cushions and a monitoring system that senses a change in a variable of across the system. [0006] Traditional designs to sense patient vitals or interaction on patient surfaces typically requires complex software algorithms and electromechanical design such as load beams or pneumatic systems with feedback mechanisms. While these options provide an ability to sense or monitor patients, they still have their shortcomings. A need exists for monitoring or sensing systems that are quiet, are robust, can adapt to existing mattress systems, can be adaptable to different patient weights, and can provide a direct response to patient interaction.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to an adjustable section of a patient support structure. More specifically, the present disclosure is related to an adjustable section of the patient support structure having fluid filled cushions that vary the support provided by the adjustable section to a patient.

[0008] Patients often need to be adjusted, positioned, or moved, for example, during a medical procedure, during recovery, and/or during physical therapy. The use of foam pads, gel pads, and inflatable air bladders in patient support structures, such as surfaces or mattresses, is well known. While these options provide an ability to adjust a patient support structure to support or readjust the patient, they still have their shortcomings. A need exists for relatively less expensive systems to control patient support structures that allow for quiet, instantaneous operation with localized control over smaller, specific areas of a patient support structure.

SUMMARY

[0001] The present invention comprises an apparatus that has one or more of the features listed in the appended claims, or one or more of following features or thereof, which alone or in any combination may comprise patentable subject matter:

[0002] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a patient support structure, which is a patient support cushion or patient support apparatus, includes a cushion and an adjustable patient interface coupled to the cushion. The adjustable patient interface includes an interface layer configured to directly or indirectly contact a portion of a patient. The interface layer includes a plurality of fluid filled cushions positioned to support the patient. Each fluid filled cushion includes one or more bladders, each of which comprises a liquid. The bladder is configured to be responsive to variations in voltage, which in turn changes the bladder shape and an interface pressure of the cushion and the interface pressure exerted on a patient by the interface layer.

[0003] The adjustable patient interface includes a control system with a controller in electrical communication with the fluid filled cushion. The controller is configured to be operable to vary the voltage or other electric parameter, such as current or any other suitable parameter, applied to the liquid in the bladder of the fluid filled cushion to vary the bladder shape and interface pressure applied by the interface layer.

[0004] In some embodiments, the interface layer include a plurality of zones. For example, the interface layer includes three or more zones disposed at different locations on the patent support apparatus. At least one of the plurality of zones includes an array of fluid filled cushions.

[0005] In some embodiments, the interface layer includes a plurality of fluid filled cushions arranged in an array or other suitable pattern. Each one of the fluid filled cushions includes at least one respective bladder containing a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in voltage to change the bladder shape and an interface pressure of the fluid filled cushion.

[0006] In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions are distributed over substantially all of the surface of the interface layer. In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions are disposed only within a specific area or areas of the interface layer.

[0007] In some embodiments, the interface layer is disposed at an upper surface of a patient support structure. In some embodiments, the interface layer is disposed below a top layer of a surface of a patient support structure, where the top layer includes a cushion positioned between the fluid filled cushion on the interface layer and the top surface.

[0008] In some embodiments the interface layer is a portable blanket. In some embodiments the interface layer is coupled to a foam cushion. In some embodiments the interface layer is coupled to an air bladder. In some embodiments the interface layer is coupled to a spacer material. The spacer material allows air to be transferred through the spacer layer. In some embodiments, the interface layer is coupled to a patient supporting accessory.

[0009] In some embodiments the interface layer is coupled to a temperature regulating element. For example, in some embodiments, the interface layer is coupled to a heating element. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the interface layer is coupled to a cooling element.

[0010] In some embodiments the interface pressure of the fluid filled cushion is based on an input entered into the controller by a user. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the interface pressure of the fluid filled cushion is calculated by the controller based on a predetermined criteria related to the patient. In some embodiments the predetermined criteria massages a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer. In some embodiments, the predetermined criteria is operable to massage a particular portion of the patient by actuating the fluid filled cushions in a wave-like motion. [0011] In some embodiments the predetermined criteria provides a continuous pressure to a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer. In some embodiments the predetermined criteria provides an alternating pressure to a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer.

[0012] In some embodiments the predetermined criteria provides a localized pressure to a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer. In some embodiments the predetermined criteria provides pressure relief to the patient via the interface layer by achieving a localized reduction in the interface pressure applied to a portion of the patient. In some embodiments the predetermined criteria redistributes the interface pressure applied to a surface of a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer.

[0013] In some embodiments the patient support cushion is a patient bed. In some embodiments patient support cushion is a facial support pad.

[0014] According to another aspect, a method of adjusting an interface pressure applied to a patient includes locating the interface layer in contact directly or indirectly with a portion of the patient and varying the voltage applied to the bladders in the fluid filled cushions with the controller to vary the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient by the interface layer. [0015] According to another aspect, an adjustable patient interface includes an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient. The interface layer includes at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient. The at least one fluid filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a liquid with metallic particles suspended therein. The bladder is responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change a shape of the bladder of the at least one fluid filled cushion. The adjustable patient interface includes a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion. The controller is operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary the shape of the bladder and interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

[0016] In some embodiments, the liquid with the metallic particles suspended therein forms a thermally conductive suspension. In some embodiments, the adjustable patient interface comprises a temperature sensor disposed external to the at least one fluid filled cushion. In some embodiments, the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion is based on an input from the temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the liquid with the metallic particles suspended therein is configured to transfer heat from the patient in contact with the interface layer to the temperature sensor.

[0017] In some embodiments, the adjustable patient interface comprises a plurality of fluid filled cushions. Each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions includes a respective bladder comprising a liquid. The bladder is responsive to variations in the electric parameter to change the shape of the bladder and the interface pressure of each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions.

[0018] In some embodiments, the plurality of fluid filled cushions are distributed over substantially all of a surface of the interface layer configured to contact the portion of the patient. In some embodiments, the adjustable patient interface layer comprises a plurality of temperature sensors. Each one of the plurality of temperature sensors corresponding to a respective fluid filled cushion. In some embodiments, the interface pressure of the each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions is based on an input from the corresponding one of the plurality of temperature sensors.

[0019] In some embodiments, the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a plurality of bladders. In some embodiments, the plurality of bladders are positioned at least partially on top of one another. Each one of the plurality of bladders is in electrical communication with the controller.

[0020] In some embodiments, the adjustable patient interface comprises a second parameter. The metallic particles are responsive to the second parameter. In some embodiments, the second parameter is an electrical signal. In some embodiments, the second parameter is a magnetic signal. In some embodiments, the bladder with the liquid and the metallic particles suspended therein is responsive to the second parameter.

[0021] In some embodiments, the second parameter is configured to affect a flow of the liquid within the bladder. In some embodiments, the second parameter is configured to affect the shape the bladder. In some embodiments, the second parameter is configured to affect a position the bladder.

[0022] In some embodiments, the liquid comprises a phase change material. In some embodiments, the phase change material is configured to provide at least one of heating or cooling to the patient.

[0023] In some embodiments, the interface layer is disposed at an upper surface of a patient support structure. In some embodiments, the interface layer is below a top layer of a surface of a patient support structure, the top layer including a cushion positioned between the at least one fluid filled cushion and the top layer.

[0024] In some embodiments, the at least one fluid filled cushion includes at least two electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the bladder. The controller is in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion via the at least two electrodes. The controller is operable to vary the electric parameter applied across the at least two electrodes to vary the shape of the bladder.

[0025] In some embodiments, the adjustable patient interface includes battery to provide the electric parameter. In some embodiments, the battery is integrated into the adjustable patient interface to provide a wireless and mobile system.

[0026] In some embodiments, the interface layer is coupled to a patient supporting accessory. In some embodiments, a position of the patient on the adjustable patient interface is determined by the controller based on feedback from the temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion is calculated by the controller based on feedback from the temperature sensor.

[0027] In some embodiments, the controller is operable to provide pressure relief to the patient via the interface layer by achieving a localized reduction in the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient based on feedback from the temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the controller is operable to redistribute the interface pressure applied to a surface of a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer based on feedback from the temperature sensor.

[0028] In some embodiments, the adjustable patient interface is coupled to a surface of a cushion. The cushion included in a patient support cushion and/or patient support accessory. In some embodiments, the patient support cushion is coupled to a bed frame.

[0029] According to another aspect, a method of adjusting an interface pressure applied to a patient comprises locating an interface layer in contact with a portion of the patient. The interface layer includes at least one fluid filled cushion. The at least one fluid filled cushion includes a bladder containing a liquid with metallic particles suspended therein. The bladder is responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the interface pressure of the interface layer.

[0030] The method includes varying, via a controller, the electric parameter applied to the bladder to vary a shape of the bladder and the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient by the interface layer. The controller is in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[0031] In some embodiments, the electric parameter is voltage. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor is disposed external to the at least one fluid filled cushion. The method includes varying the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion based on an input from the temperature sensor. [0032] In some embodiments, the method includes transferring heat from the patient in contact with the interface layer to the temperature sensor via the liquid with the metallic particles suspended. In some embodiments, the metallic particles are responsive to a second parameter, and the method includes varying the second parameter.

[0033] According to another aspect, a patient monitoring system comprises a monitoring layer configured to contact a portion of a patient. The monitoring layer includes at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to contact the portion of the patient. The at least one fluid filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a liquid. A dimension of the bladder corresponds to an electrical parameter. The patient monitoring system comprises a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion. The controller is operable to detect a change in the electrical parameter to determine the dimension of the bladder.

[0034] In some embodiments, the least one fluid filled cushion includes a first electrode on a first side of the bladder and a second electrode on a second side of the bladder. The first side of the bladder is opposite the second side. In some embodiments, the dimension of the bladder is a distance between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0035] In some embodiments, the controller is operable to signal when the electrical parameter is outside of a predetermined range. In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds to the patient being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion. In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds to the patient not being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[0036] In some embodiments, the monitoring layer includes an array of fluid filled cushions. Each fluid filled cushion in the array is assigned a respective location in the array of fluid filled cushions that corresponds to a position on the monitoring layer. In some embodiments, the controller is operable to detect a position of the patient on the monitoring layer based on the electrical parameter. In some embodiments, the controller is operable to detect if the patient is in a side sitting or side laying position.

[0037] In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds to an immersion depth of the patient into the monitoring layer. In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds a baseline determined by the controller. In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds to an industry standard vital signal based on at least one of a size, age, or weight of the patient. In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds to a heart rate. In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds to a respiratory rate.

[0038] In some embodiments, the electrical parameter is a predetermined voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion. In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds to an expected dimension of the at least one fluid filled cushion that corresponds to the predetermined voltage. In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds to an expected voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to cause a predetermined displacement.

[0039] In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds to a frequency of operation under a predetermined input voltage with respect to a predetermined displacement. In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined capacitance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion. In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined impedance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion. In some embodiments, the predetermined range corresponds to an expected current consumption of the patient monitoring system.

[0040] In some embodiments, the controller is further operable to collect and store a baseline. The baseline corresponds to the electrical parameter. The predetermined range corresponds to the baseline. In some embodiments, the controller is operable to continuously monitor the electrical parameter and compare the monitored electrical parameter to the baseline. [0041] In some embodiments, the at least one fluid filled cushion includes bladders within the at least one fluid filled cushion. In some embodiments, the monitoring layer is integrated with a patient support surface. In some embodiments, the patient support surface is a cushion. In some embodiments, the monitoring layer is an independent component configured to be positioned on a variety of pre-existing surfaces. In some embodiments, the monitoring layer is a patient wearable accessory. In some embodiments, the monitoring layer is positioned under a chest area of the patient. In some embodiments, the monitoring layer is positioned under a high risk areas of the patient.

[0042] In some embodiments, the monitoring layer is integrated with a patient bed. The patient bed includes a bed frame and patient support cushion. The patient support cushion including the monitoring layer with the fluid filled cushion.

[0043] According to another aspect, a method of monitoring a parameter of a patient with a patient monitoring system includes locating the patient in contact with a monitoring layer of the patient monitoring system. The monitoring layer includes at least one fluid filled cushion having a bladder comprising a liquid. A dimension of the bladder corresponding to an electrical parameter;

[0044] The method includes providing an electrical input to the at least one fluid filled cushion via a controller. The controller is in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion. The method includes detecting, via the controller, a change in the electrical parameter to determine the dimension of the bladder.

[0045] In some embodiments, the method comprises comparing the electrical parameter to a predetermined range. In some embodiments, the method includes signaling an alert when the controller determines the electrical parameter is outside of the predetermined range.

[0046] In some embodiments, the method comprises determining a baseline measurement corresponding to the electrical parameter when the patient is not in contact with the monitoring layer. In some embodiments, the method includes storing the baseline measurement in a memory of the controller. The predetermined range corresponds to the baseline measurement. In some embodiments, the method includes continuously monitoring the electrical parameter. In some embodiments, the method includes comparing the monitored electrical parameter to the baseline measurement.

[0047] According to another aspect, a patient monitoring system comprises a patient bed having a bed frame, a mattress supported by the bed frame, and a monitoring layer supported by the mattress. The monitoring layer includes a plurality of soft actuators. Each soft actuator includes a fluid-filled cushion positioned to support a patient when a patient is positioned on the mattress. Each soft actuator is capable of providing a shape to the cushion in response to an electric signal applied to the soft actuator. The electric response of the soft actuator changes in correspondence to pressure within the fluid- filled cushion caused by a patient supported on the mattress.

[0048] The patient monitoring system includes a controller in communication with the soft actuators. The controller is operable to detect the electric response and to determine a patient parameter from the electric response. In some embodiments, the monitoring layer is integrated in the mattress.

[0049] In some embodiments, the patient parameter comprises a parameter indicating the pressure between the patient skin and the mattress or monitoring layer. In some embodiments, the patient parameter comprises a patient vital sign.

[0050] In some embodiments, the patient monitoring system comprising a nurse call system. The controller transmits a signal to the nurse call system when the patient parameter reaches a threshold.

[0051] In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a fluid, a first electrode on a first side of the bladder, and a second electrode on a second side of the bladder, the first side opposite the second side. In some embodiments, the electric parameter is related to a distance between the first electrode and the second electrode. In some embodiments, the first electrode and the second electrode are disposed on opposite sides of the bladder to displace the fluid in the bladder upon actuator of the first electrode and the second electrode, changing a shape of the soft actuator. In some embodiments, the fluid comprises a dielectric liquid.

[0052] The present invention comprises an apparatus that has one or more of the features listed in the appended claims, or one or more of following features or thereof, which alone or in any combination may comprise patentable subject matter:

[0053] According to another aspect, a patient support structure comprises an adjustable section and a controller. The adjustable section is configured to support at least a portion of a patient. The adjustable section includes at least one fluid filled cushion. The fluid filled cushion is positioned to vary the support provided by the adjustable section to the patient. The fluid filled cushion is responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the support provided by the adjustable section. The controller is in electrical communication with the fluid filled cushion. The controller is operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the fluid filled cushion to vary the support provided to the patient.

[0054] In some embodiments, the patient support structure includes a patient bed frame. In some embodiments, the patient support structure includes a patient support cushion having a first end and a second end. The patient support cushion may be coupled to the bed frame.

[0055] In some embodiments, the adjustable section includes a portion near the first end of the patient support cushion. The first end is configured to support a foot of the patient.

[0056] In some embodiments, the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall length of the patient support cushion. In some embodiments, the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the first end.

[0057] In some embodiments, the adjustable section includes a portion near the second end of the patient support cushion. The second end is configured to support a head of the patient. The adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the second end.

[0058] In some embodiments, the adjustable section includes a first portion of the patient support cushion extending along a length of the patient support cushion between the first end and the second end. The first portion of the patient support structure extends along an edge of an upper surface of the patient support cushion. The adjustable section may be positioned to vary an overall width of the patient support cushion. The adjustable section may be positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion along the edge of the upper surface. [0059] In some embodiments, the adjustable section includes a second portion of the patient support cushion extending between the first end and the second end of the patient support cushion along the upper surface on an opposite edge of the upper surface from the first portion.

[0060] In some embodiments, the adjustable section includes a central portion disposed between the first and the second end of the patient support cushion. The central portion is configured to support a chest of the patient. The adjustable section may be positioned to vary a pressure applied by the patient support cushion to a torso of the patient.

[0061] In some embodiments, the patient support structure comprises a plurality of fluid filled cushions. Each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions includes a respective bladder comprising a liquid responsive to variations in voltage to change an interface pressure of the bladder. The plurality of fluid filled cushions are disposed within the adjustable section.

[0062] In some embodiments, the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion applied to the patient is based on an input entered into the controller by a user. The adjustable section may be configured for use in physical therapy exercise.

[0063] In some embodiments, the patient support structure includes a footboard. The adjustable section may include a portion of the footboard. The adjustable section may be configured for use as a physical therapy tool.

[0064] In some embodiments, the patient support structure includes a sideboard. The adjustable section may include a portion of the sideboard.

[0065] In some embodiments, the adjustable section is configured to provide percussion and vibration to the patient. In some embodiments, the adjustable section is configured to stabilize a portion of the patient. In some embodiments, the adjustable section is configured to massage a portion of the patient.

[0066] In some embodiments, the patient support structure includes a patient lift. The adjustable section may be disposed on an end of the patient lift.

[0067] In some embodiments, the adjustable section includes a first member and a second member. The first member and the second member may be positioned to secure a portion of the patient between the first member and the second member.

[0068] In another embodiments, the patient support structure is a patient support accessory. The patient support accessory comprises an adjustable section and a controller. The adjustable section is configured to support at least a portion of a patient. The adjustable section includes at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to vary the support provided by the adjustable section to the patient. The fluid filled cushion is responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the support provided by the adjustable section. The controller is in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to vary the support provided to the patient.

[0069] In some embodiments, the patient support accessory is a wearable accessory. The patient support accessory may be a wearable cuff. The patient support accessory may be a brace. [0070] In some embodiments, the patient support accessory comprises a plurality of fluid filled cushions. Each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions includes a respective bladder comprising a liquid responsive to variations in voltage to change an interface pressure of the bladder. The plurality of fluid filled cushions are disposed within the adjustable section.

[0071] In some embodiments, the interface pressure of the fluid filled cushion applied to the patient is based on an input entered into the controller by a user. In some embodiments, the adjustable section is configured for use in physical therapy exercise.

[0072] In some embodiments, the adjustable section is configured to provide percussion and vibration to the patient. In some embodiments, the adjustable section is configured to stabilize a portion of the patient. In some embodiments, the adjustable section is configured to massage a portion of the patient.

[0073] According to another aspect, a method of adjusting support provided to a patient comprises locating an adjustable section of a patient support structure in contact with a portion of the patient. The adjustable section includes at least one fluid filled cushion responsive to variations in an electrical parameter to change support provided to the patient.

[0074] The method includes varying, via a controller, the electrical parameter to vary the support applied to the portion of the patient by the adjustable section. The controller is in electrical communication with the fluid filled cushion.

[0075] In some embodiments, varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a foot of the patient. In some embodiments, varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a head of the patient. In some embodiments, varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a side of the patient.

[0076] In some embodiments, varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a chest of the patient. In some embodiments, varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a torso of the patient.

[0077] In some embodiments, varying the electrical parameter comprises varying the electrical parameter based on an input entered into the controller by a user. In some embodiments, the method comprises providing percussion and vibration to the patient with the adjustable section. In some embodiments, the method comprises providing physical therapy to the patient with the adjustable section.

[0078] In some embodiments, the method comprises stabilizing a portion of the patient with the adjustable section. In some embodiments, the method comprise massaging a portion of the patient with the adjustable section. In some embodiments, the method comprises lifting a portion of the patient with the adjustable section.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0079] The detailed description particularly refers to the accompanying figures in which: [0080] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a patient support apparatus shown as a patient bed, showing the patient bed including a bed frame, a patient support cushion, and an adjustable patient interface layer including an array of fluid filled cushions disposed throughout the interface layer to support and/or monitor a portion of a patient and that are responsive to variations in voltage to change an interface pressure applied to the patient;

[0081] Figs. 2-4 are perspective views of another embodiment of a patient bed, similar to Fig. 1, showing a patient bed with an adjustable patient interface layer including fluid filled cushions disposed on only a portion of the patient bed, the patient bed having adjustable sections disposed on a head, a chest, and/or a foot portion of a support cushion, the adjustable sections each including an array of fluid filled cushions disposed throughout the respective adjustable section to support and/or interact with a portion of a patient and that are responsive to variations in voltage to change a pressure exerted by the adjustable section;

[0082] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a patient support cushion illustrating sub-layers of an adjustable patient interface layer, the adjustable patient interface layer including an array of fluid filled cushions and a cushion;

[0083] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a patient support cushion, similar to Fig. 5, with an interface layer disposed on a top surface of the cushion, where the interface layer is the top most surface of the patient support cushion;

[0084] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a patient support cushion, similar to Figs. 5 and 6, with an interface layer disposed underneath a top surface or an outer top layer of the patient support cushion;

[0085] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of an interface layer comprising an array of fluid filled cushions, each cushion comprising a plurality of fluid filled bladders; [0086] Figs. 9A-9C are illustrations showing a cross-sectional view of bladders within a fluid filled cushion during variations in voltage applied to the bladder by the control system;

[0087] Fig. 10 is a side, cross-sectional view showing a patient support cushion with multiple fluid filled cushions - some fluid filled cushions are energized and some fluid filled cushions are de-energized - as compared to the footprint of a traditional air bladder;

[0088] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a facial patient support cushion including an interface layer with fluid filled cushions and bladders;

[0089] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a patient blanket including an interface layer with fluid filled cushions and bladders;

[0090] Fig. 13 is a schematic view of the patient bed and a control system of Fig. 1;

[0091] Figs. 14A-14B are illustrations showing a cross-sectional view of bladders within a fluid filled cushion when an electrical parameter is applied to the bladders by a control system with and without external patient load applied to the fluid filled cushion;

[0092] Figs. 15 A-l 5E are examples of steps of methods of operation of a control system, a patient interface layer or monitoring layer, and/or a patient bed;

[0093] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a wearable patient accessory including fluid filled cushions and bladders;

[0094] Fig. 17 is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of bladders with particles suspended in fluid within the bladders;

[0095] Fig. 18 is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of bladders comprising a phase change material;

[0096] Fig. 19 is a schematic view of a patient bed and a control system;

[0097] Fig. 20 is a perspective view of a patient bed showing the patient bed including a bed frame, a patient support structure, and adjustable sections of the patient support structure disposed along foot and side portions of the support structure, the adjustable sections including an array of fluid filled cushions disposed throughout the adjustable sections to support and/or interact with a portion of a patient and that are responsive to variations in voltage to change a pressure exerted by the adjustable sections;

[0098] Figs. 21A-21B are top views of a portion of another embodiment of a patient support structure, similar to Fig. 20, with an adjustable section including fluid filled cushions disposed at the foot portion of the patient support structure and configured to expand and contract to adjust a length of the support structure;

[0099] Figs. 22A-22B are top views of a portion of another patient support structure similar to Fig. 20, with adjustable sections including fluid filled cushions extending across the width of the patient support structure and configured to expand and contract to adjust the width of the support structure;

[00100] Figs. 23A-23B are top views of a portion of another patient support structure similar to Fig. 20, with adjustable sections including fluid filled cushions disposed along the sides of the patient support structure and configured to expand and contract to adjust a width of the support structure;

[00101] Figs. 24A-24C are illustrations showing cross-sectional views of an embodiment of horizontally stacked bladders within a fluid filled cushion during variations in voltage applied to the bladders by a control system;

[00102] Figs. 24D-24F are illustrations showing cross-sectional views of another embodiment of vertically stacked bladders within a fluid filled cushion during variations in voltage applied to the bladders by a control system;

[00103] Figs. 25A-25B are side views of a portion of a patient support structure of Fig. 25C, with an adjustable section at a head of the support structure and including fluid filled cushions disposed at the head and configured to expand and contract to adjust a height of the support structure;

[00104] Fig. 25C is a perspective view of another embodiment of a patient bed, similar to Fig. 20, including a bed frame, a patient support structure, and adjustable sections of the patient support structure disposed along foot and side portions of the support structure, the adjustable sections including an array of fluid filled cushions disposed throughout the adjustable sections to support and/or interact with a portion of a patient and that are responsive to variations in voltage to change a pressure exerted by the adjustable sections;

[00105] Fig. 26 is a perspective view of a patient bed and a bed frame, similar to Fig. 20, with adjustable sections disposed on a footboard of the bed frame, the adjustable sections including an array of fluid filled cushions disposed throughout the adjustable sections to support and/or interact with a portion of a patient and that are responsive to variations in voltage to change a pressure exerted by the adjustable sections;

[00106] Fig. 27 is a perspective view of a patient bed and a bed frame, similar to Fig. 27, with adjustable sections of the bed frame disposed on sideboards of the bed frame, the adjustable sections including an array of fluid filled cushions disposed throughout the adjustable sections to support and/or interact with a portion of a patient and that are responsive to variations in voltage to change a pressure exerted by the adjustable sections;

[00107] Figs. 28-31 are illustrations of a variety of patient support structures each including adjustable sections with one or more fluid filled cushions disposed throughout the adjustable sections to support and/or interact with a portion of a patient and that are responsive to variations in voltage to change a pressure exerted by the adjustable sections; and

[00108] Figs. 32A-32C are illustrations of another patient support structure including adjustable sections with one or more fluid filled cushions configured to lift, move, and/or reposition at least a portion of a patient.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00109] Referring to Fig. 1, a patient support apparatus 100 is embodied as a patient bed including a frame 112 and a patient support cushion 114 coupled to the frame 112. The patient support cushion 114 illustratively includes a cushion 116 and an adjustable patient interface layer 118 including an array of fluid filled cushions 120, as will be described in further detail below. In Figs. 1-7, the patient support cushion 114 is embodied as a mattress. In other embodiments, the patient support cushion 114 is another type of patient support surface, patient interface surface, or patient support accessory suitable for supporting or being used to apply pressure to a portion of a patient, such as a facial support cushion 1114 (shown in Fig. 11), a moveable blanket 1214 or otherwise portable layer that may be placed on an existing surface such as a patient bed or chair (shown in Fig. 12), a wearable patient accessory 1614 (shown in Fig. 16), and/or any other suitable form of a patient interface surface.

[00110] The frame 112 illustratively includes a lower frame 144, an upper frame 146, and a lift system 148 coupled to the lower frame 144 and the upper frame 146, as shown in Fig. 1. The lift system 148 is configured to raise and lower the upper frame 146 relative to the lower frame 144. The patient support apparatus 100 also includes a deck 150 coupled to the upper frame 146 that supports the patient support cushion 114.

[00111] As seen in Fig. 1, the adjustable patient interface layer 118 with the array of fluid filled cushions 120 is distributed over a surface of the patient support cushion 114. For example, as seen in Fig. 1, the adjustable patient interface layer 118 covers or is distributed over substantially all of a top surface of the patient support cushion 114. The adjustable patient interface layer 118 is configured to support or contact a patient either directly or indirectly. For example, in some embodiments, the adjustable patient interface layer 118 may have a drape or other simple material layered over it between the adjustable patient interface layer 118 and the patient. A control system 111 is connected to the adjustable patient interface layer 118, as will be described in more detail below, via wires or any other means that provides for electrical communication with the adjustable patient interface layer 118 and bladders 130 within each fluid filled cushion 120. [00112] In some embodiments, the patient support cushion 114 is divided into zones 170, as shown in Fig. 1. Embodiments of a patient support apparatus 200, 300, 400 in accordance with the present disclosure are shown in Figs. 2-4. The patient support apparatus 200, 300, 400 is similar to the patient support apparatus 100 shown in Figs. 1 and 13 and described herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 200, 300, and 400 series indicate features that are common between the patient support apparatus 100 and the patient support apparatus 200, 300, 400. The description of the patient support apparatus 100 is incorporated by reference to apply to the patient support apparatus 200, 300, 400, except in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the respective patient support apparatus 200, 300, 400. [00113] In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 2-4, the zones 170 include or are grouped into an upper or head zone 122, a lower or feet zone 124, and/or a seat or mid-section zone 126. In some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 1, the adjustable patient interface layer 118 and the fluid filled cushions 120 are disposed over all of the zones 170. Alternatively, in some embodiments (as shown in Figs. 2-4) the adjustable patient interface layer 218, 318, 418 and the fluid filled cushions 220, 320, 420 and bladders the fluid filled cushions 230, 330, 430 are distributed over only certain zones 270, 370, 470 or a portion of the surface of the patient support cushion 214, 314, 414. As illustrated in Figs. 3-4, the adjustable patient interface layer 318, 418 and fluid filled cushions 320, 420 are only distributed over head 322, 422, mid-section 326, 426, and/or feet 324, 424 zones, in other words, zones of the adjustable patient interface layer 318, 418 under the head zone 322, 422, the mid-section zone 326, 426, and/or the feet zone 324, 424 of the patient. As illustrated in Fig. 2, the adjustable patient interface layer 218 and fluid filled cushions 220 are only distributed over the mid-section zone 226.

[00114] In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 120, 220, 320, 420 are only be used in areas of high risk of pressure injury, such as the seat zone 126, 226, 326, 426 and/or the feet zone 124, 224, 324, 424.

[00115] In some embodiments, a single fluid filled cushion 120, 220, 320, 420 is integrated into a portion of the adjustable patient interface layer 1 18, 218, 318, 418. In some embodiments, one or more fluid filled cushions 120, 220, 320, 420 are integrated into one portion of the adjustable patient interface layer 118, 218, 318, 418, as shown in Fig. 2. In some embodiments, multiple fluid filled cushions 120, 220, 320, 420 are integrated into one or more portions of the adjustable patient interface layer 118, 218, 318, 418 (as shown in Figs. 1-4), for example, where the response of the adjustable patient interface layer 118 in the form of either displacement or vibration is highest for a patient, such as the head 122, 222, 322, 422, seat t 126, 226, 326, 426, or feet 124, 224, 324, 424 zones. [00116] In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 120 are used to monitor vital signals of a patient, such as heart rate, respiration rate, and/or blood pressure. In some embodiments, one or more relatively larger fluid filled cushion 420, as shown in Fig. 4, which has a relatively larger footprint than, for example, fluid filled cushions 320 shown in Fig. 3, are used to monitor vital signals as the larger cushion 420 is more sensitive to relatively smaller movements associated with vital signals as opposed to larger patient movements, such as exiting a bed.

[00117] Referring to Figs. 5-7, the patient support cushion 114 illustratively includes the cushion 116, which comprises any material or structure suitable for providing support to a patient. For example, in some embodiments, the cushion 116 is a foam cushion. The cushion 116 forms the base or bottom portion of the patient support cushion 114. The adjustable patient interface layer 118 and the fluid filled cushions 120 form the top layer and/or top surface of the patent support cushion 114. The fluid filled cushions 120 (referred to below and shown in Figs. 8-9) are separated and held securely in place to the cushion 116 and/or within the adjustable patient interface layer 118 by seams. In some embodiments, the seams are RF welded or sewn.

[00118] As shown in Figs. 5-6, the adjustable patient interface layer 118 and the fluid filled cushions 120 are the top, upper most surface of the patient support cushion 114. Alternatively, in some embodiments as shown in Fig. 7, the patient support cushion 114 further comprises a cover layer or top layer 128 disposed on top of the adjustable patient interface layer 118 and the fluid filled cushions 120, so that the adjustable interface layer 118 is disposed between the cushion 116 and the cover layer 128. In some embodiments, the cover layer 128 is another cushion or supportive surface.

[00119] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the adjustable patient interface layer 118 with the fluid filled cushions 120 is integrated over air bladders, foam, spacer material, and/or other traditional surface constructions. In some embodiments, the adjustable patient interface layer 118 is integrated with temperature elements. For example, in some embodiments, the adjustable patient interface layer 1 18 and/or the fluid filled cushions 120 are integrated with cooling or heating features to provide additional comfort for the patient.

[00120] Referring to Fig. 8, a more detailed example of the adjustable patient interface layer 118 of Figs. 1-7 is shown. The adjustable patient interface layer 118 comprises multiple fluid filled cushions 120 disposed adjacent to one another. The fluid filled cushions 120 are arranged in any suitable fashion. For example, as shown in Fig. 1, the fluid filled cushions 120 are distributed evenly over the adjustable patient interface layer 118 and arranged in an array with each cushion 120 assigned a respective X position and Y position in the array, as shown in Fig. 1. In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 120 are distributed unevenly over the adjustable patient interface layer 118 or are arranged in any other suitable pattern needed to redistribute pressure applied to the patient by the adjustable patient interface layer 118 and/or monitor the pressure applied to the adjustable patient interface layer 118 by a patient. The adjustable patient interface layer 118 may also be referred to as a monitoring layer 118. In some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 2, the fluid filled cushions 220 are only distributed across certain zones or portions of the adjustable patient interface layer 218, for example, across zones 226 where monitoring is desired.

[00121] In illustrative embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 120 are separated into groups or subsets, for example, a group A, a group B, and a group C, as shown in Fig. 8. In illustrative embodiments, the groups of fluid filled cushions 120 are interwoven or dispersed among each other. For example, in illustrative embodiments, each group of fluid filled cushions 120 is distributed throughout the adjustable patient interface layer 118, intermingled amongst each other, e.g., group A, group B, and group C fluid filled cushions 120 are scattered through the adjustable patient interface layer 118 and fluid filled cushions 120 of each group are disposed among each other throughout the adjustable patient interface layer 118. In illustrative embodiments, during operation of the adjustable patient interface layer 118, the fluid filled cushions 120 A in group A are directed to apply a relatively low interface pressure, the fluid filled cushions 120B in group B are directed to apply an intermediate or relatively medium interface pressure, and the fluid filled cushions 120C in group C are directed to apply a relatively high interface pressure. In illustrative embodiments, the adjustable patient interface layer 118 could cycle and then direct the fluid filled cushions 120A in group A to apply a relatively high interface pressure, the fluid filled cushions 120B in group B to apply a relatively low interface pressure, and the fluid filled cushions 120C in group C to apply an intermediate or relatively medium interface pressure. In illustrative embodiments, the adjustable patient interface layer 118 could then cycle over and over, changing the relative pressure applied by each group of fluid filled cushions 120.

[00122] Now referring to Figs. 8 and 9A-9C, each fluid filled cushion 120 includes multiple bladders 130. For example, multiple bladders 130 may be stacked and/or positioned vertically on top of one another within the same fluid filled cushion 120. In some embodiments, the bladders 130 may be positioned on top of one another so that their outer perimeters align. In some embodiments, the bladders 130 may partially overlap. Any suitable number of bladders 130 may be stacked on top of one another in the same fluid filled cushion 120. Alternatively, in some embodiments, only one bladder 130 is disposed in a fluid filled cushion 120. In some embodiments, some of the fluid filled cushions 120 in the adjustable patient interface layer 118 include multiple bladders 130 and some of the fluid filled cushions 120 only include one bladder 130. In some embodiments, all of the fluid filled cushions 120 in the adjustable patient interface layer 118 include multiple bladders 130 stacked on top of each other. Alternatively, in some embodiments, all of the fluid filled cushions 120 in the adjustable patient interface layer 118 each include only one bladder 130.

[00123] Each bladder 130 within the fluid filled cushion 120 contains a liquid 132, positive electrodes 134 disposed on a portion of one side of the bladder 130, and negative electrodes 136 disposed on a portion of an opposite side of the bladder 130, across from the positive electrodes 134, with the liquid 132 between the positive 134 and negative 136 electrodes. The bladder 130 is made of any material capable of containing the liquid 132 and having electrodes 134, 136 disposed over the surface, such as a polymer material. The liquid 132 is any insulating liquid or fluid capable of providing electrical insulation between the electrodes 134, 136 and capable of changing shape due to movement of the electrodes 134, 136. In some embodiments, the liquid is, for example, a dielectric liquid.

[00124] As seen in Fig. 9A-9C, the positive electrodes 134 are disposed and extend over a portion of one side of the bladder 130. The negative electrodes 136 extend opposite the positive electrodes 134 on the opposite side of the bladder 130. When voltage is not being supplied to the electrodes 134, 136, or when the bladder 130 is not actuated, the positive 134 and negative electrodes 136 are spaced apart by the liquid 132, as seen in Fig. 9A. When voltage is applied to the electrodes 134, 136 on either side of the bladder 130, the positive 134 and the negative electrodes 136 are drawn towards each other, displacing the liquid 132 between them and forcing the liquid 132 towards the portions of the bladder 130 not covered in electrodes 134, 136, as seen in Figs. 9B and 9C.

[00125] Due to the placement of the electrodes 134, 136 on the bladder 130 and the dimensions of the bladder 130, by supplying voltage to the electrodes 134, 136, the electrodes 134, 136 force the liquid 132 into the portion of the bladder 130 not covered by electrodes, expanding and putting pressure on the uncovered areas of the bladder 130. The displacement of the liquid 132 causes the dimensions of the bladder 130 and/or thr fluid filled cushion 120 to change. For example, as seen in Figs. 9A-9C a maximum height Hi, 2 and/or length LI,2 of the fluid filled cushion 120 changes due to a change in voltage supplied to the electrodes 134, 136 of the bladders 130, causing actuation of the fluid filled cushion 120. This change in dimension causes the fluid filled cushion 120 to expand in height and/or contract in length. For example, the height H2 of the actuated bladder 130 as seen in Fig. 9C is greater than the height Hi of the unactuated bladder 130 as seen in Fig. 9A, and the bladder 130 exerts a greater interface pressure due to the greater height. Additionally or alternatively, the length L2 of the actuated bladder 130 as seen in Fig. 9C is less than the length Li of the unactuated bladder 130 as seen in Fig. 9A.

[00126] As a result of the expansion or contraction of the bladder 130 and the fluid filled cushion 120, the pressure exerted on a surface, for example to a portion of a patient, by the fluid filled cushions 120 in the adjustable patient interface layer 118 is applied, relieved, adjusted, and/or varied. In some embodiments, the amount of overall pressure variation able to be applied by the fluid filled cushions 120 is increased, for example, by stacking and layering multiple bladders 130 on top of each other within a single fluid filled cushion 120 of the adjustable patient interface layer 118 to increase the total amount of expansion and/or contraction used to vary the interface pressure.

[00127] Applying a voltage across the two electrodes 134, 136 that are separated by the liquid 132 results in a controllable shape change. For example, the design, shape, and positioning of the bladders 130 allows for expanding, contracting, bending, and twisting motions. As a result, actuation of the individual bladders 130 and/or fluid filled cushions 120 varies the interface pressure applied to the patient by the adjustable patient interface layer 118 to provide pressure therapy by turning on certain electrodes 134, 136, turning off other electrodes 134, 136, and switching the electrodes 134, 136 from off to on and vice versa.

[00128] The plurality of fluid filled cushions 120 and bladders 130 allow for localized pressure interface control. In some embodiments, for example, having multiple, independently controlled bladders 130 allows for the adjustable patient interface layer 118 to contour to the shape of the patient and control the interface pressure at individual locations to minimize hard spots and provide a specific interface pressure, for example, by providing uniform continuous low pressure, alternating low pressure across individual fluid filled cushions 120, vibration, massaging, and/or a wave-like movement via the adjustable patient interface layer 118.

[00129] In some embodiments, when functioning as an alternating pressure system, interface pressures in the balanced state can range from as low as 25 mm HG to as high as 100 mm HG in the sacral region dependent on patient weight and size. In some embodiments, in the alternated state, the high pressure cycle zone range will increase up to 100% maximum from the balanced state with an ideal increase of less than 50% from balanced state; the low pressure cycle zone range will decrease by 25% minimum from the balanced state with an ideal decrease of 50% to 100% from the balanced state. In some embodiments, during an alternated pressure cycle, pressure zones can be in an alternated state anywhere between 1 minute to 30 minutes, with typical alternated times between 2 and 10 minutes. In some embodiments, the balanced state, occurring between the alternated states, ranges between 1 minute and 20 minutes, with a typical balanced time between 2 minutes and 8 minutes. In some embodiments, the system can run indefinitely going from alternated state, to balanced, then back to alternated state.

[00130] Fig. 10 illustrates a side view of multiple fluid filled cushions 120 as compared to the footprint of a traditional air bladder 138. As shown in Fig. 10, multiple fluid filled cushions 120, and bladders 130 within each of the cushions 120, fit within the footprint of a single traditional air bladder 138. The use of multiple fluid filled cushions 120 allows for more precise pressure application and control by using the adjustable patient interface layer 118 as opposed to a single traditional air bladder 138. Fig. 10 also illustrates how adjacent fluid filled cushions 120 can be independently actuated or energized as compared to a single traditional air bladder 138, which allows for greater control and interface pressure applied to a patient via the adjustable patient interface layer 118.

[00131] Additionally, the fluid filled cushions 120 provide a relatively compliant interface as compared to traditional methods, such as the traditional air bladder 138. The fluid filled cushions 120 are relatively silent during operation as compared to traditional pneumatic designs. The fluid filled cushions 120 also provide a more compact, lightweight, configurable, portable, cost effective, and/or customizable option as compared to traditional methods. Additionally, the capability to operate each bladder 130 within the fluid filled cushions 120 at varying amplitudes and frequencies allows for greater adjustability.

[00132] The relatively high resolution (smaller size and larger number of individual adjustable zones) of the adjustable patient interface layer 118 and the fluid filled cushions 120 enable a better opportunity to contour and adjust the surface of the adjustable patient interface layer 118 and any patient support cushion 114 for comfort and caregiving needs. Traditional surfaces typically use foam, gel, or air bladders to support the patient. Foam and gel are both passive components that react to the patient load and cannot be adjusted. For example, a traditional full width seat air bladder can be replaced with ten, three-inch diameter fluid filled cushions 120. Having ten individual fluid filled cushions 120 instead of a single full width bladder allows for better immersion and envelopment to improve pressure redistribution performance. Such an arrangement is beneficial for alternating pressure by being able to relieve pressure in a specific area, for example, by actuating a single fluid filled cushion 120 or a pattern of fluid filled cushions 120 in the adjustable patient interface layer 118, without impacting patient comfort.

[00133] Embodiments of a patient support apparatus 1100, 1200 in accordance with the present disclosure are shown in Figs. 11-12. The patient support apparatus 1100, 1200 is similar to the patient support apparatus 100 shown in Figs. 1 and 13 and described herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 1100 and 1200 series indicate features that are common between the patient support apparatus 100 and the patient support apparatus 1100, 1200. The description of the patient support apparatus 100 is incorporated by reference to apply to the patient support apparatus 1100, 1200, except in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the respective patient support apparatus 1100, 1200. Figs. 11 and 12 illustrate additional, alternate embodiments of the adjustable patient interface layer 1118 on the facial support cushion 1114. Fig. 11 shows the adjustable patient interface layer 1118, fluid filled cushions 1120, and bladders 1130 arranged on a facial support pad 1140. Fig. 12 shows an adjustable patient interface layer 1218 with fluid filled cushions 1220 and bladders 1230 arranged in the blanket 1214, which is easily moveable, transportable, and free-form or non-ridged in shape. The blanket 1214 is able to be placed on top of patients or underneath them.

[00134] Fig. 13 illustrates a schematic view of the patient support apparatus 100, including the patient support cushion 114 and the control system 111. The control system 111 shown in Fig. 13 may be the control system and/or similar to a control system for any of the patient support apparatuses and/or patient support structures shown and/or described herein. The control system 111 shown in Fig. 13 may be the control system and/or similar to a control system 211, 311, 411, 1711, 1811, 2011, 2411, 2511, 2611, 2711 for any of the patient support apparatuses 100, 200, 300, 400, 1100, 1200, 1600, 2000, 2500, 2600, 2700, patient support cushions 114, 214, 314, 414, 1114, 1214, 1614, 2014, 2114, 2314, 2414, 2514, 2614, 2714, 2814, 2914, 3114, systems 3084, 3286, and/or interface/monitoring layers 118, 218, 318, 418, 1618, 1718, 1818, 2018, 2118, 2318, 2418, 2518, 2618, 2718, 2818, 2918 shown and/or described herein.

[00135] The control system 111 includes the adjustable patient interface layer 118, a controller 160, and a voltage source 166 that is in electrical communication with the electrodes 134, 136 (shown in Figs. 8-9C) disposed on each bladder 130 within the adjustable patient interface layer 118. In some embodiments, the adj ustable patient interface layer 118 also includes an array of pressure sensors 168 in addition to the array of fluid filled cushions 120. The controller 160 includes a memory 164 and a processor 162.

[00136] The control system 111 is in electrical communication with each of the bladders 130 within each of the fluid filled cushions 120 via wires connecting the voltage source 166 of the control system 111 to each of the electrodes 134, 136 of the bladders 130. In some embodiments, the control system 111 is able to independently actuate, de-actuate, energize, and/or de-energize each bladder 130 with the voltage source 166. For example, the control system 111 is able to independently control the actuation of each of the bladders 130 within each fluid filled cushion 120 based on the fluid filled cushion’s 120 specific location (e.g. the cushion’s 120 respective X and Y position within the array). In some embodiments, the control system 111 actuates, de-actuates, energizes, and/or de-energizes each bladder 130 within the same fluid filled cushion 120 together. In some embodiments, the control system 111 actuates each bladder 130 within the same fluid filled cushion 120 the same amount, such that each bladder 130 within the same cushion 120 is actuated to the same extent to apply the same amount of pressure. In other words, in some embodiments, the control system 111 supplies the same voltage to each bladder 130 within the same fluid filled cushion 120. In some embodiments, the control system 111 actuates each bladder 130 within the same fluid filled cushion 120 differing amounts, or supplies differing amount of voltage.

[00137] In some embodiments, the control system 111 controls the bladders 130 in accordance with a pre-selected program to apply, relieve, or redistribute the interface pressure applied to the patient via the adjustable patient interface layer 118. The pressure sensors 168 are disposed throughout the adjustable patient interface layer 118 to determine the pressure being applied directly or indirectly to a patient via the adjustable patient interface layer 1 18 at each fluid filled cushion 120 location (e.g. the cushion’s 120 respective X and Y position within the array). In some embodiments, the control system 111 is able to determine, calculate, and/or control the actuation of specific cushions 120 and adjust the pressure being applied by the adjustable patient interface layer 120 based on a desired pressure application and real time feedback from the pressure sensors 168. Additionally or alternately, in some embodiments, the control system 111 controls the bladders 130 based on an input entered into the control system 111 by a user. Additionally or alternately, in some embodiments, the control system 111 calculates the needed interface pressure based on a predetermined criteria related to the patient and adjusts the fluid filled cushions 120 accordingly. In some embodiments, the control system 111 utilizes the controller 160, the memory 164, and the processor 162 to carry out programs, user inputs, and/or desired adjustments to the adjustable patient interface layer 118.

[00138] As discussed above, due to the placement of the electrodes 134, 136 on the bladder 130 and the dimensions of the bladder 130, by supplying voltage to the electrodes 134, 136, the electrodes 134, 136 force the liquid 132 into the portion of the bladder 130 not covered by electrodes 134, 136, thereby expanding and putting pressure on the uncovered areas of the bladder 130. The displacement of the liquid 132 causes the dimensions of the bladder 130 and/or the fluid filled cushion 120 to change. For example, as seen in Figs. 9A-9C the height Hi, 2 and/or the length LI,2 of the fluid filled cushion 120 changes due to a change in voltage supplied to the electrodes 134, 136 of the fluid filled cushion 120. An external force caused by a patient or other external factor may also affect the shape and/or dimensions of the bladder 130 and/or a distance between the electrodes 134, 136, as shown in Figs. 14A-14B.

[00139] In some embodiments, due to the materials of the bladders 130 and the fluid 132 within, a predetermined or set voltage value correlates to a known or expected dimension of the fluid filled cushion 120. For example, as shown in Fig. 14A, the supplied voltage V2 correlates to a height of H2 of the bladder 130 in the fluid filled cushion 120 when no external weight or force is acting upon the fluid filled cushion 120. Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 14B, when the same voltage V2 is supplied to the fluid filled cushion 120 while the fluid filled cushion 120 is under a force F (represented by the arrow pushing down on the fluid filled cushion 120), such as the weight of a patient sitting or lying on the fluid filled cushion 120, the resulting height of the bladder 130 is H2’, where H2’ is smaller than H2.

[00140] For example, when supplied with the voltage V2, the external force F may force the bladders 130 to compress in height thereby forcing the fluid 132 between the electrodes 134, 136 to push the electrodes 134, 136 apart (as shown in Fig. 14B), even though the same voltage, V2, fully draws the electrodes together 134, 136 under no external force F (as shown in Fig. 14A). As will be explained in more detail below, the control system 111 is able to continuously monitor and determine the height of the bladders 130 and the fluid filled cushions 120 to monitor a patient in contact, directly or indirectly, with the fluid filled cushions 120.

[00141] Due to their design, the fluid filled cushions 120 and the bladders 130 have a versatile range of heights Hi, H2, H2’ and/or displacement due to the fluid filled cushions’ 120 ability to expand and contract. The circuit formed by the voltage source 166, the electrodes 134, 136, the bladders 130, the fluid 132, and the wires connecting these components, have multiple electrical parameters that are controllable by the control system 111. The electrical parameters may also include electrical responses or values related to the circuit that are measured and/or determined by the controller 160. The voltage source 166 is in electrical communication with the electrodes 134, 136 disposed on each bladder 130 within the monitoring layer 118. The controller 160, the electrodes 134, 136, and the voltage source 166 form a feedback system capable of determining a height and/or a displacement of the bladders 130 in the fluid filled cushions 120.

[00142] For example, the control system 111 is able to control and adjust voltage, frequency, and/or other electrical parameters supplied to the electrodes 134, 136. Additionally or alternatively, the control system I ll is able to measure and/or obtain an electrical parameter response from the circuit such as the capacitance and/or impedance caused by the displacement or distance between the electrodes 134, 136. Additionally or alternatively, the control system 111 is able to detect a change in a supplied electrical parameter or electrical parameter response, such as a change in the voltage or frequency of the circuit across the electrodes 134, 136 caused by a change in the external force F applied to the monitoring layer 118, such as a force F exerted by the patient on the bladders 130.

[00143] The control system 111 converts a detected change in the supplied electrical parameter or the electrical parameter response to a displacement of the bladders 130 (a distance between the electrodes 134, 136 of the bladder 130) and/or a force F exerted on the bladders 130 causing a change in the displacement of the electrodes 134, 136. These monitored electrical parameters and/or responses are then used to determine various patient movements on the monitoring layer 118 in accordance with the methods described herein.

[00144] In some embodiments, through expansion and contraction, the fluid filled cushions 120 are able to exert a force of hundreds of Newtons with bandwidth frequency ranging from 0 to 100 Hz. The materials and construction used in the fluid filled cushions 120, such as the outer material of the bladder 130 and the fluid 132 within, make the fluid filled cushions 120 and the bladders 130 adaptable to support surfaces and mattresses. The versatile range of the fluid filled cushions 120 and the control system 111 built into the patient support apparatus 100 result in a relatively more configurable, repeatable, and controlled design compared to traditional, external patient monitoring systems.

[00145] In some embodiments, the change in dimension from varying voltages is used to position the patient and/or redistribute pressure of the patient in addition to monitoring patient position. The varying voltage causes the fluid filled cushion 120 to expand in height and/or contract in length. For example, the height H2 of the actuated bladder 130 as seen in Fig. 9C is greater than the height Hi of the unactuated bladder 130 as seen in Fig. 9A, and the bladder 130 exerts a greater interface pressure due to the greater height H2. Additionally or alternatively, the length L2 of the actuated bladder 130 as seen in Fig. 9C is less than the length Li of the unactuated bladder 130 as seen in Fig. 9A.

[00146] As a result of the expansion or contraction of the bladder 130 and the fluid filled cushion 120, the pressure exerted on a surface, for example to a portion of a patient, by the fluid filled cushions 120 in the monitoring layer 118 is applied, relieved, adjusted, and/or varied. In some embodiments, the amount of overall pressure variation able to be applied by the fluid filled cushions 120 is increased, for example, by stacking and layering multiple bladders 130 on top of each other within a single fluid filled cushion 120 of the monitoring layer 118 to increase the total amount of expansion and/or contraction used to vary the interface pressure and/or move or adjust a position of the patient. [00147] Referring to Figs. 15A-15E, the control system 111 as shown in Fig. 13, or a control system for any embodiment is shown and/or described herein, is capable of determining displacement of the bladders 130 within the fluid filled cushions 120 through a variety of different methods. Figs. 15A-15E illustrate a process 1500 of operating the patient support apparatus 100 to monitor the location, immersion, and/or other status of a patient on the monitoring layer 118. The process 1500 shown in Figs. 15A-15E may have fewer or additional steps, may have repeated steps, and/or may be performed in a different order than shown. Any of the steps illustrated in Figs. 15A-15E may be performed with any of the other steps shown in Figs. 15A-15E. For example, one or more steps of the process 1500 shown in Figs. 15A-15E may be performed as a subprocess as a part of a larger process 1500 with other steps shown in Figs. 15A-15E. The steps shown in Figs. 15A-15E may be performed by any of the control systems, patient support apparatuses, interface layers, and/or systems shown and/or described herein.

[00148] In some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 15A, the process 1500 comprises a process step 1510, which includes locating and/or positioning a patient in direct or indirect contact with the monitoring layer 118 and one or more of the fluid filled cushions 120. The process comprises a process step 1520, which includes providing an electrical input, such as voltage from the voltage source 166 or another suitable input from the control system 111 to one or more of the bladders 130 in the fluid filled cushions 120 of the monitoring layer 118. The process comprises a process step 1530, which includes monitoring and/detecting, via the control system 111, a change in the electrical parameter that corresponds to a dimension of the bladder 130. The process comprises a process step 1540, which includes signaling and/or outputting an alert, via the control system 111, when the electrical parameter changes and/or falls outside of a predetermined range.

[00149] Some steps in the process 1500 may include multiple steps. For example, in some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 15B, the process step 1530 of detecting a change in the electrical parameter may include a process step 1532, which includes continuously monitoring the electrical parameter and/or a process step 1534, which includes comparing the measured/monitored parameter to the predetermined range. In some embodiments, the predetermined range may be determined or set by a user and may correspond to an acceptable range for the electrical parameter and/or a status of a patient on the monitoring layer 118. In some embodiments, the predetermined range may correspond to a determined baseline and/or a baseline measurement.

[00150] For example, in some embodiments, the process 1500 comprises a process step 1502, which includes determining, via the control system 111, an expected displacement and/or electrical parameter response baseline for a known electrical input, such as a supplied voltage, as shown in Fig. 15C. In some embodiments, the control system 111 determines a baseline input voltage required to produce an expected displacement of the bladder 130 without a weight. In some embodiments, the control system 111 determines a baseline and/or an expected current consumption. In some embodiments, the control system 111 determines a baseline and/or an expected voltage response to maintain a certain predetermined frequency. In some embodiments, the control system 111 determines a baseline frequency of operation under certain input voltage with respect to a known displacement without weight. In some embodiments, the control system 111 determines a baseline capacitance and/or a voltage difference across the electrodes 134, 136 without a weight. Additionally or alternatively, the control system 111 may use a combination of any of these methods to determine the displacement, or distance between the electrodes 134, 136, of the bladders 130.

[00151] The process 1500 comprises the process step 1510, which includes the patient weight being placed on the monitoring layer 118 and the fluid filled cushions 120. The process comprises the process step 1532, which includes the responses in the monitored electrical parameter monitored by the control system 1 11 changing as a result of the weight being placed on the monitoring layer 118. In some embodiments, the process step 1532 includes determining the displacement of the bladder 130 and/or a position of the patient, via the control system 111, by continuously monitoring one or more of the electrical parameters described herein and, the process step 1534, which includes comparing the detected parameters to the baseline response.

[00152] In some embodiments, for example as shown in Fig. 15D, the process 1500 comprises a process step 1504, which includes establishing a baseline, via the control system 111 using the controller 160, the processor 162, and the memory 164, for a specific electrical parameter, for example, without a patient weight and/or when no external force F is acting on the fluid filled cushion 120. The memory 164 stores the baseline and the control system 111 may continuously monitor the electrical parameter during use and compare it to the baseline.

[00153] In some embodiments, the process comprises a process step 1532, which includes determining patient movements and/or positions, via the control system 111, using the methods described herein. For example, the process step 1532 may include continuously monitoring the electric parameters, via the control system 111 , to sense when the patient exits the patient support apparatus 100, such as a bed, when the patient is off or out of the patient support apparatus 100, when the patient is awake and or sitting up on the patient support apparatus 100, as well as relatively smaller patient movements on the patient support apparatus 100. The electrical parameter response monitored by the control system 111 is sensitive to patient load changes. In some embodiments, the process step 1532 may include continuously monitoring the responses for real time response and/or the process step 1534 may include comparing the responses to the determined baseline stored in the memory 164 to determine and/or predict a status of the patient on the patient support apparatus 100.

[00154] In some embodiments, the process comprises a process step 1540, which includes triggering an alarm upon detecting change in the status of the patient to alert a caregiver. In some embodiments, the control system 111 uses the methods described herein to detect and/or determine a patient position on the patient support apparatus 100, such as side sitting, patient laying, patient side laying, patient migration etc., through the array of fluid filled cushions 120 integrated into the monitoring layer 118.

[00155] In some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 15E, the process 1500 comprises the process step 1532, which includes monitoring an electrical parameter, and a process step 1536, which includes determining a displacement of the bladders 130 based on the monitored electrical parameter. For example, in some embodiments, the process step 1536 includes determining immersion of a patient into the monitoring layer 118 via the control system 111 and the fluid filled cushions 120. The electrical parameter response monitored by the control system 1 11 is sensitive to a patient load and/or weight on the bladders 130 within the fluid filled cushions 120. The response is used to determine how far the patient is immersed into the monitoring layer 118, thereby minimizing any pressure injury by initiating the necessary surface operations to redistribute pressure.

[00156] In some embodiments, a baseline response is determined that corresponds to an ideal position and/or immersion depth of the patient. The control system 111 continuously monitors the electrical parameter response to compare the monitored, real time response against the baseline to determine the immersion level. Once the monitored electrical parameter reaches a predetermined range/value that corresponds to an immersion depth, such as when the immersion depth is bottoming out relative to a height of the patient support structure and/or below the idea range, an alert can be indicated to the caregiver.

[00157] In some embodiments, the control system 111 and the fluid filled cushions 120 are used to monitor a patient’s position in predetermined high risk areas or locations on the patient support apparatus 100 and/or monitor for no patient movement. Through continuous monitoring of the electrical parameter response, when the control system 111 detects a patient load outside of an ideal baseline within a risk location, or does not detect a change in patient load and/or a change in an electrical parameter response (no movement), the control system 111 alerts the caregiver, who can then take the necessary steps to prevent patient injury such as initiating patient movement and/or inspecting the risk locations. [00158] In some embodiments, the process 1500 comprises a process step 1506, which includes determining a predetermined value or acceptable range for a response corresponding to a specific vital signal based on a patient’ s weight, height, age, and/or other pertinent medical information. An industry standard correlating to a patient’s particular medical information is used to convert a standard or acceptable range for a specific vital signal to standard measurable units corresponding to a response monitored by the control system 111. The process comprises the process step 1532 that includes monitoring the response, the process step 1534 of determining if the monitored response exceeds or falls below the predetermined value or range, and the process step 1540 of signaling an alert via the control system 111 when the monitored response exceeds or falls below the predetermined value or range.

[00159] An embodiment of a patient support apparatus 1600 in accordance with the present disclosure is shown in Fig. 16. The patient support apparatus 1600 is similar to the patient support apparatus 100 shown Fig. 1 and 13 and described herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 1600 series indicate features that are common between the patient support apparatus 100 and the patient support apparatus 1600. The description of the patient support apparatus 100 is incorporated by reference to apply to the patient support apparatus 1600, except in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the respective patient support apparatus 1600.

[00160] Fig. 16 illustrates an additional and/or an alternative embodiment of a monitoring layer 1618 on the wearable accessory 1614, such as a wristband 1686. Fig. 16 shows the patient support apparatus 1600 and the monitoring layer 1618, the fluid filled cushions 1620, and the bladders 1630 arranged on the wearable accessory 1614, such as a wearable band or strap. The wearable accessory 1614 may be any patient accessory suitable for monitoring patient vitals. The wearable accessory 1614 is an independent component that is not attached to another patient surface.

[00161] Unlike traditional patient monitoring systems where bed frame load beam data is needed to determine patient interactions, or at minimum complex pneumatic systems are needed, the patient support apparatus 100 as described herein is able to be integrated into standalone surfaces, eliminating dependencies on the bed frame load beam data. The patient support apparatus 100 as described herein is also able to operate without complex pneumatic systems, making the patient support apparatus 100 and the monitoring layer 118 more versatile and adaptable as compared to traditional systems. Using the patient support apparatus 100 as described herein, even basic foam surfaces can be upgraded with improved patient position monitoring and care. [00162] Embodiments of a fluid filled cushion 1720, 1820 in accordance with the present disclosure are shown in Figs. 17-18. The fluid filled cushion 1720, 1820 is similar to the fluid filled cushion 120 shown Figs. 1 and 8-10 and described herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 1700 and 1800 series indicate features that are common between the fluid filled cushion 120 and the fluid filled cushion 1720, 1820. The description of the fluid filled cushion 120 is incorporated by reference to apply to the fluid filled cushion 1720, 1820 except in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the respective fluid filled cushion 1720, 1820. Additionally and/or alternatively, the fluid filled cushion 1720, 1820 may be a fluid filled cushion in any of the embodiments of the patient support apparatus, interface/monitoring layer, adjustable sections, and/or patient support cushion described and/or shown herein.

[00163] In some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 17, particles 1752 are suspended within liquid 1732 inside of bladders 1730. In the illustrative embodiment, the particles 1752 comprise metallic particles, and may comprise any metallic material that is electrically and/or magnetically conductive. In the illustrative embodiments, the fluid filled cushion 1720 includes one or more temperature sensors 1768. The metallic particles 1752 increase the thermal conductivity of the liquid 1732 and the bladders 130 such that when a patient is directly or indirectly in contact with the adjustable patient interface layer 1718 and the fluid filled cushions 1720, sufficient heat from the patient is conducted to the temperature sensors 1768 through the bladders 1730 and the liquid 1732 within. As described below, in some embodiments, the temperature sensors 1768 are used to determine a location of the patient on the adjustable patient interface layer, and the interface pressure applied by the fluid filled cushions 1720 is adjusted based on feedback from the temperatures sensors 1768. In some embodiments, the positional feedback from the temperature sensors 1768 is used to trigger an alarm or otherwise alert a caregiver when a patient requires positioning correction and/or is no longer in contact with the adjustable patient interface layer (such as when they exit the bed).

[00164] In some embodiments, the particles 1752 increase the electrical and/or magnetic conductivity of the liquid 1732 within the bladders 1730. The particles 1752 create an electric and/or a magnetic field within the bladders 1730 through actuation of electrodes 1734, 1736, an electric signal, and/or a magnetic signal, where the electric signal and the magnetic signal are generated by a source different from the electrodes 1734, 1736. The source may be external to the system or included in the control system. The conductive property of the liquid 1732 allows for increased control over the shape and/or motion of the bladders 1730. In some embodiments, the electric or magnetic signal is used to manipulate the liquid 1732 with the particles 1752 suspended there in. In some embodiments, the signal is used to adjust the flow of the liquid 1732 within the bladder 1730, for example, by increasing, decreasing, and/or halting the flow of the liquid 1732 in the bladder 1730. In some embodiments, the signal is used to halt or hold the flow of the liquid 1732 to freeze or hold a specific position/shape of the bladder 1730. In some embodiments, the signal is used to form a specific shape with the bladder 1730 based on a shape of the electric and/or magnetic field created by the signal. The shape and/or position of the electrodes 1734, 1736 on the bladders 1730 may vary based on a desired shape of the bladders 1730 when the electrodes 1734, 1736 are actuated. In some embodiments, the electric and/or magnetic current passing through the liquid 1732 creates a temperature gradient and causes electrothermal fluid flow, which can be used to manipulate the flow of the liquid 1732 within the bladders 1730.

[00165] In some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 18, the liquid 1832 within the bladders 1830 comprises a phase change material (PCM) 1852. The PCM 1852 within the bladders 1830 enables the fluid filled cushions 1820 to provide heating and/or cooling to the patient in contact with the adjustable patient interface layer 1818. The PCM 1852 may comprise any material capable of absorbing and/or releasing heat. In some embodiments, the PCM 1852 comprises an organic PCM, an inorganic PCM, and/or an eutectic PCM. The PCM may be a liquid-solid, a solid-liquid, a solid-gas, a liquid-gas, or a solid-solid PCM. In some embodiments, the PCM 1852 is used to absorb heat from a patient directly or indirectly in contact with the adjustable patient interface layer, thereby cooling the patient. In some embodiments, the PCM 1852 is used to heat a patient directly or indirectly in contact with the adjustable patient interface layer, thereby warming the patient.

[00166] An embodiment of a patient support apparatus 1900 in accordance with the present disclosure is shown in Fig. 19. The patient support apparatus 1900 is similar to the patient support apparatus 100 shown Figs. 1 and 13 and described herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 1900 series indicate features that are common between the patient support apparatus 100 and the patient support apparatus 1900. The description of the patient support apparatus 100 is incorporated by reference to apply to the patient support apparatus 1900, except in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the respective patient support apparatus 1900.

[00167] Fig. 19 illustrates a schematic view of the patient support apparatus 1900, including a patient support cushion 1914 and a control system 1911. The control system 111 shown in Fig. 19 may be the control system and/or similar to a control system for any of the patient support apparatuses and/or patient support structures shown and/or described herein. The control system 111 shown in Fig. 19 may be the control system and/or similar to a control system 211, 311, 411, 1711, 1811, 2011, 2411, 2511, 2611, 2711 for any of the patient support apparatuses 100, 200, 300, 400, 1100, 1200, 1600, 2000, 2500, 2600, 2700, patient support cushions 114, 214, 314, 414, 1114, 1214, 1614, 2014, 2114, 2314, 2414, 2514, 2614, 2714, 2814, 2914, 3114, systems 3084, 3286, and/or interface/monitoring layers 118, 218, 318, 418, 1618, 1718, 1818, 2018, 2118, 2318, 2418, 2518, 2618, 2718, 2818, 2918 shown and/or described herein.

[00168] The control system 111 includes an adjustable patient interface layer 1918, a controller 1960, and a voltage source 1966 that is in electrical communication with electrodes 1934, 1936 disposed on each bladder 1930 within the adjustable patient interface layer 1918. In some embodiments, the voltage source 1966 is a battery such that the patient support apparatus 1900 is mobile/self-contained and wireless without the need to be plugged into an external power source. In some embodiments, the control system 1911 includes an additional source 1969 that supplies a magnetic and/or an electrical signal to the bladders 1930. The adjustable patient interface layer 1918 also includes an array of sensors 1968 in addition to an array of fluid filled cushions 1920, each with respective bladders 1930 and electrodes 1934, 1936. The controller 1960 includes a memory 1964 and a processor 1962. In some embodiments, the sensors 1968 may comprise temperature sensors as describe above. In some embodiments, the sensors 1968 may comprise pressure sensors as described above.

[00169] The control system 1911 is in electrical communication with each of the bladders 1930 within each of the fluid filled cushions 1920 via wires connecting the voltage source 1966 and/or the signal source 1969 of the control system 1911 to each of the electrodes 1934, 1936 of the bladders 1930. In some embodiments, the control system 1911 is able to independently actuate, de-actuate, energize, and/or de-energize each bladder 1930 with the voltage source 1966. For example, the control system 1911 is able to independently control the actuation of each of the bladders 1930 within each fluid filled cushion 1920 based on the fluid filled cushion’s 1920 specific location (e.g. the cushion’s 1920 respective X and Y position within the array). In some embodiments, the control system 1911 actuates, de-actuates, energizes, and/or de-energizes each bladder 1930 within the same fluid filled cushion 1920 together. In some embodiments, the control system 1911 actuates each bladder 1930 within the same fluid filled cushion 1920 the same amount, such that each bladder 1930 within the same cushion 1920 is actuated to the same extent thereby applying the same amount of pressure. In other words, in some embodiments, the control system 1911 supplies the same voltage and/or signal to each bladder 1930 within the same fluid filled cushion 1920. In some embodiments, the control system 1911 actuates each bladder 1930 within the same fluid filled cushion 1920 differing amounts or supplies differing amount of voltage and/or signal.

[00170] In some embodiments, the control system 1911 controls the bladders 1930 in accordance with a pre-selected program to apply, relieve, or redistribute the interface pressure applied to the patient via the adjustable patient interface layer 1918. The sensors 1968 are disposed throughout the adjustable patient interface layer 1918 to determine the pressure and/or temperature being applied directly or indirectly to a patient via the adjustable patient interface layer 1918 at each fluid filled cushion 1920 location (e.g. the cushion’s 1920 respective X and Y position within the array). In some embodiments, the control system 1911 is able to determine, calculate, and control the actuation of specific cushions 1920 and adjust the pressure being applied by the adjustable patient interface layer 1918 based on a desired pressure application and real time feedback from the sensors 1968. Additionally or alternately, in some embodiments, the control system 1911 controls the bladders 1930 based on an input entered into the control system 1911 by a user. Additionally or alternately, in some embodiments, the control system 191 1 calculates the needed interface pressure based on predetermined criteria related to the patient and adjusts the fluid filled cushions 1920 accordingly. In some embodiments, the control system 1911 utilizes the controller 1960, the memory 1964, and the processor 1962 to carry out programs, user inputs, and/or desired adjustments to the adjustable patient interface layer 1918.

[00171] Embodiments of a patient support apparatus 2000 in accordance with the present disclosure is shown in Fig. 20. The patient support apparatus 2000 is similar to the patient support apparatus 100, 200, 300, 400 shown in Figs. 1-4 and 13 and described herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 2000 series indicate features that are common between the patient support apparatus 100 and the patient support apparatus 2000. The description of the patient support apparatus 100, 200, 300, 400 is incorporated by reference to apply to the patient support apparatus 2000, except in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the patient support apparatus 2000.

[00172] Referring to Fig. 20, the patient support apparatus 2000 is embodied as a patient bed including a frame 2012 and a patient support structure 2014 or a patient support cushion 114 coupled to the frame 2012. The patient support structure 2014 illustratively includes a cushion 2016 and adjustable sections 2018 including an array of fluid filled cushions 2020 as will be described in further detail below.

[00173] Embodiments of a patient support structure 2114, 2214, 2314, 2414, 2514 in accordance with the present disclosure is shown in Figs. 21A-25B. The patient support structure 2114, 2214, 2314, 2414, 2514 is similar to the patient support structure 114, 214, 314, 414, 2014 shown in Figs. 1-4, 13, and 20 and described herein and the patient support structure 2014 shown in Fig. 20 and described herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, and 2500 series indicate features that are common between the patient support structure 114, 214, 314, 414, 2014 and the patient support structure 2114, 2214, 2314, 2414, 2514. The description of the patient support structure 114, 214, 314, 414, 2014 is incorporated by reference to apply to the patient support structure 2114, 2214, 2314, 2414, 2514, except in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the respective patient support structure 2114, 2214, 2314, 2414, 2514. Additionally and/or alternatively, the patient support structure 2114, 2214, 2314, 2414, 2514 may be a patient support structure in any of the embodiments of the patient support apparatus described and/or shown herein.

[00174] In Fig. 20, the patient support structure 2014 is embodied as a mattress. In other embodiments, the patient support structure 2014 is another type of patient support surface or patient support accessory suitable for supporting or being used to apply pressure to a portion of a patient, such as a brace (shown in Fig. 28), a cuff or wristband, (shown in Figs. 29 and 31 ), or a patient stabilizer or lift system (shown in Figs. 30 and 32A-32C). In other embodiments, the patient support structure 2014 is another type of patient support surface or accessory suitable for patient interaction during, for example, physical therapy exercise, such as footboard or sideboard clusters (shown in Figs. 26 and 27).

[00175] The frame 2012 illustratively includes a lower frame 2044, an upper frame 2046, and a lift system 2048 coupled to the lower frame 2044 and the upper frame 2046, as shown in Fig. 20. The lift system 2048 is configured to raise and lower the upper frame 2046 relative to the lower frame 2044. The patient support apparatus 2000 also includes a deck 2050 coupled to the upper frame 2046 that supports the patient support structure 2014. The frame 2012 illustratively includes a headboard 2052, a footboard 2054, and side boards 2056 extending along either side of the patient support structure 2014.

[00176] As seen in Fig. 20, the adjustable sections 2018 with the array of fluid filled cushions 2020 are disposed throughout the patient support structure 2014. For example, as seen in Fig. 20, an adjustable section 2018 is distributed at a feet zone 2024 of the patient support structure 2014 and other adjustable sections 2018 are distributed along the sides of patient support structure 2014 between a head zone 2022 and the feet zone 2024 of the patient support structure 2014. In some embodiments, (as shown in Figs. 22A-22B), adjustable sections 2218 may extend across the entire width of the patient support structure 2214.

[00177] The adjustable sections 2018, 2118, 2218, 2318, 2418, 2518 as seen in Figs. 20-

25C are configured to adjust and/or alter the shape of the patient support structure 2014, 2114, 2214, 2314, 2414, 2514 through use of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120, 2220, 2320, 2420, 2520. For example, the adjustable section 2018, 2118 at the feet zone 2024 of the patient support structure 2014 (shown in Figs. 20 and 21A-21B) are adjusted to change the overall length of the patient support structure 2014, 2114. The adjustable sections 2318 along the sides of the structure 2314, 2914 (shown in Figs. 29 and 23A-23B) are adjusted to change the width of the structure 2314, 2914. A control system 2011 is connected to the adjustable section 2018, as will be described in more detail below, via wires or any other means that provides for electrical communication with the adjustable section 2018 and the bladders 2030 within each fluid filled cushion 2020.

[00178] In some embodiments, the patient support structure 2014 is divided into different zones 2070, as shown in Fig. 20, with one or more adjustable sections 2018 in at least one of the zones 2070. In some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 20, the zones 2070 include or are grouped into an upper zone or head zone 2022, a lower zone or feet zone 2024, and/or a mid-section zone or a seat zone 2026. In some embodiments, the adjustable section 2018 and the fluid filled cushions 2020 are disposed over all of the zones 2070. Alternatively, in some embodiments (as shown in Fig. 20) one or more adjustable sections 2018 and fluid filled cushions 2020 are distributed over only certain zones or a portion of the surface of the patient support structure 2014.

[00179] Referring to Fig. 20 the patient support structure 2014 illustratively includes the cushion 2016, which comprises any material or structure suitable for providing support to a patient. For example, in some embodiments, the cushion 2016 is a foam patient support structure. In some embodiments, the adjustable section 2018 and the fluid filled cushions 2020 are the top, upper most surface of the patient support structure 2014. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the patient support structure 2014 further comprises a cover layer or top layer disposed on top of the adjustable section 2018 and the fluid filled cushions 2020, so that the adjustable section 2018 is disposed between the patient support structure 2014 and the cover layer. In some embodiments, the cover layer is another patient support structure or supportive surface. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the adjustable section 2018 with the fluid filled cushions 2020 is integrated over air bladders, foam, spacer material, and/or other traditional surface constructions. In some embodiments, the adjustable section 2018 is integrated with temperature elements. For example, in some embodiments, the adjustable section 2018 and/or the fluid filled cushions 2020 are integrated with cooling or heating features to provide additional comfort for the patient. The fluid filled cushions 2020 are separated and held securely in place to the patient support structure 2014 and/or within the adjustable section 2018 by seams. In some embodiments, the seams are RF welded or sewn.

[00180] In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 20-23B, the adjustable section 2018, 2118, 2218, 2318 and the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120, 2220, 2320 form a side layer, a side surface, and/or are situated in a way that movement of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120, 2220, 2320 moves at least a portion of a side surface of the patient support structure 2014, 2114, 2214, 2314 to adjust the length or the width of the patient support structure 2014, 2114, 2214, 2314. For example, the adjustable section 2018, 2118, 2218, 2318 and the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120, 2220, 2320 may move a side surface outward or inward relative to the rest of the patient support structure 2014, 2114, 2214, 2314, increasing or decreasing a dimension of the patient support structure 2014, 2114, 2214, 2314 such as the length or the width. As will be discussed in more detail below, the dimensions of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120, 2220, 2320 in the adjustable section 2018, 2118, 2218, 2318 are adjusted based on expansion and contraction of the bladders 2030, 21 0, 2230, 2330 within the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120, 2220, 2320.

[00181] When the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120, 2220, 2420 are in lengthwise expansion

(shown in Figs. 21 A, 22B, and 24 A) a length of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120, 2220, 2420 may be greater than when the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120, 2220, 2420 are in lengthwise contraction (shown in Figs. 21B, 22A, and 24C). Additionally or alternatively, when the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2320, 2420 are in widthwise expansion (shown in Figs. 23A and 24C) a width of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2320, 2420 may be greater than when the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2320, 2420 are in widthwise contraction (shown in Figs. 23B and 24A). Additionally or alternatively, when the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2420, 2520 are in height-wise expansion (shown in Figs. 25B and 24F) a height of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2420, 2520 may be greater than when the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2420, 2520 are in height-wise contraction (shown in Figs. 25A and 24D). The fluid filled cushions 2020 are arranged in the adjustable sections 2018, and the bladders 2030 are arranged in the fluid filled cushions 2020, depending on what dimension of the adjustable section 2018 and the patient support structure 2014 is desired to be adjustable.

[00182] In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 20 and 21A-21B, the adjustable section 2018, 2118 is disposed at the feet zone 2024 of the support structure 2014, 2114 and is situated to increase or decrease a length L of the support structure 2014, 2114 by moving the feet zone 2024 or side of the patient support structure 2014, 2114 due to expansion or contraction of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120 in the adjustable section 2018, 2118. The fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120 may be oriented lengthwise parallel to the length of the support structure 2014, 2114, as shown in Fig. 21 A, such that when the bladders 2030, 2130 of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120 are in lengthwise expansion, the patient support structure 2014, 2114 has an expanded length of Li and the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120 have an expanded length Li . As shown in Fig. 21B, when the bladders 2030, 2130 of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120 are in lengthwise contraction, the patient support structure 2014, 2114 has a contracted length of L2, and the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120 have a length L2 , where Li is greater than L2 and Li is greater than L₂’.

[00183] In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 22A-22B, the fluid filled cushions 2220 in the adjustable section 2218 may be oriented with a length of the cushion 2220 extending perpendicular to a length of the patient support structure 2214. As shown in Figs. 22A-22B, the fluid filled cushions 2220 in the adjustable section 2218 may be situated to increase or decrease a width of the patient support structure 2214 due to expansion or contraction of the fluid filled cushions 2220. The fluid filled cushions 2220 and the adjustable section 2218 may be disposed over the entire length of the patient support structure 2214 such that expansion or contraction of the fluid filled cushions 2220 adjusts an overall width of the patient support structure 2214. As shown in Fig. 22A, when the bladders 2230 of the fluid filled cushions 2220 are in widthwise contraction, the patient support structure 2214 has a contracted width of Wj. As shown in Fig. 22B, when the bladders 2230 of the fluid filled cushions 2220 are in widthwise expansion, the patient support structure 2214 has an expanded width of W2, , where W2 is greater than Wi.

[00184] In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 20 and 23A-23B, adjustable sections 2018, 2318 are disposed along the sides of the patient support structure 2014, 2314 between the head zone 2022 and the feet zone 2024. The adjustable sections 2018, 2318 are oriented with the length of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2320 extending parallel to the length of the patient support structure 2014, 2314 as in Figs. 23A and 23B. The adjustable sections 2018, 2318 are situated to increase or decrease a width of the support structure 2014, 2314 due to expansion or contraction of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2320 in the adjustable sections 2018, 2318. As shown in Fig. 23A, when the bladders 2330 of the fluid filled cushions 2320 are in widthwise expansion, the patient support structure 2314 has an expanded width of Wi, and the fluid filled cushions 2320 have an expanded width of Wi . As shown in Fig. 23B, when the bladders 2330 of the fluid filled cushions 2320 are in widthwise contraction, the patient support structure 2314 has a contracted width of W2 and the fluid filled cushions 2023 have a contracted width of W2 , where W 1 is greater than W2 and Wi is greater than W2 .

[00185] In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 20 and 21A-21B, where an adjustable section 2018, 2118 is disposed at the feet zone 2024 of the patient support structure 2014, 2114, the adjustable section 2018, 2118 and the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120 are retractable to the foot end surface of the patient support structure 2014, 2114. This adjustment allows for customization of the overall length of the patient support structure 2014, for example, to help for ease of maneuvering of the patient support structure 2014 during transport (i.e. small elevators, smaller turning radius) and/or to reduce patient migration to the foot end of the patient support structure 2014. In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 20 and 22A-22B, where one or more adjustable sections 2018, 2218 are disposed on the sides of the patient support surface 2014, 2214, the actuators provide width adjustments for the patient support structure 2014, 2214. This adjustment, for example, may be used on bariatric beds that are required to retract to fit in tight spaces and expand to increase the patient space. In some embodiments, the cushion 2016 forms the base or bottom portion of the patient support structure 2014.

[00186] Another embodiments of a patient support apparatus 2500 in accordance with the present disclosure are shown in Figs. 25A-25C. The patient support apparatus 2500 is similar to the patient support apparatus 100, 200, 300, 400, 2000 shown in Figs. 1 -4, 13, and 20 and described herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 2500 series indicate features that are common between the patient support apparatus 100, 200, 300, 400, 2000 and the patient support apparatus 2500. The description of the patient support apparatus 100, 300, 400, 2000 is incorporated by reference to apply to the patient support apparatus 2500, except in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the respective patient support apparatus 2500.

[00187] In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 25A-25C, the adjustable section 2518 and the fluid filled cushions 2520 form a top layer, a top surface, and/or are situated in a way that movement of the fluid filled cushions 2520 moves the top surface of the patient support structure 2514. In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 25A-25C, the adjustable sections 2518 are disposed throughout the patient support structure 2514, for example, over one or more zones 2570 such as a head zone 2522, a mid-section zone 2526, and/or a feet zone 2524 of the patient support structure 2514. The adjustable sections 2518 are situated to increase or decrease a height of the support structure 2514 by moving a top layer of the patient support structure 2514 due to expansion or contraction of the fluid filled cushions 2520 in the adjustable section 2518. As shown in Fig. 25A, when the bladders 2530 of the fluid filled cushions 2520 are in height-wise contraction, the patient support structure 2514 has a contracted height of Hi. As shown in Fig. 25B, when the bladders 2530 of the fluid filled cushions 2520 are in height-wise expansion, the patient support structure 2514 has an expanded height of Hz, where Hz is greater than Hi. [00188] In some embodiments, the adjustable sections 2518, such as the ones shown in Figs. 25A-25C, are programmed to provide adjustable support in localized areas of the surface of the patient support structure 2514. In some embodiments, the adjustable section 2518 in the head zone 2522 of the patient support structure 2514 is adjustable for use as a head pillow and/or neck support. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the adjustable section 2018 in the head portion 2522 is used for patient support when performing endotracheal intubation and the patient is positioned in a sniffing position and/or a ramped position. The adjustable section 2518 may replace the use of pillows and blankets placed under the head or neck of the patient. In some embodiments, the adjustable section 2518 is positioned to provide the lift needed to ramp the patient and lift their head into the sniffing position.

[00189] In some embodiments, the adjustable sections 2518 along the side edges of the patient support structure 2514 are adjustable to create a soft restraint or physical boundary and/or the adjustable sections 2518 under one side of the body are adjustable to assist in maintaining a turned patient position. In some embodiments, the adjustable sections 2518 are actuated to provide a gentle physical prompt to a patient to move into a different position, for example, by having the adjustable sections 2518 on the left and right side of the surface of the patient support structure 2514 under the patient’s body. In some embodiments, the adjustable sections 2018 and the fluid filled cushions 2520 within provide pulsing and/or vibration at periodic intervals at one of the sides to encourage the patient to roll off that side of the patient support surface 2514. In some embodiments, the adjustable section 2518 and the fluid filled cushions 2520 are able to sense when the patient is laying on them, track the time in that position, and determine which side the patient needs to turn off of for skin offloading. In some embodiments, the adjustable section 2518 and the fluid filled cushions 2520 are used for sleep apnea patients to wake them up or encourage them to turn their head during apneic episodes by communicating with data to detect and respond. Additionally or alternatively, by articulating the adjustable sections 2518 in a wave like motion (progressively inflating then deflating rows) or a tilting motion, the adjustable sections 2518 can provide assistance for patient transfer.

[00190] In some embodiments, the adjustable section 2518 near the lower or feet zone 2524 of the patient support structure 2514 is adjustable to support the patient’s calves and/or for use as a heel pillow. These features aid in patient comfort and assist the caregiver by being more readily available in the surface of the patient support structure 2514 and provide a more adaptable patient support structure 2514 shape for contouring. In some embodiments, the adjustable section 2518 near the mid-section zone 2526 of the patient support structure 2514 is used to locally firm the surface of the patient support structure2514 for CPR compressions. In some embodiments, the adjustable section 2518 is actuated automatically when another CPR mechanism is activated. [00191] In some embodiments, the adjustable section 2518 near the mid-section zone 2526 of the patient support structure 2514 is disposed under the seat of a patient to raise the patient as they are trying to stand, for example, from a bed chair position or a side exiting position. In some embodiments, the adjustable section 2518 makes the surface of the patient support structure 2514 stiffer for stability and/or increases the height of the surface of the patient support structure 2514 to ease standing. In some embodiments, to better accommodate side sitting, the adjustable section 2518 becomes firm to provide support. In some embodiments, having multiple heights provided by the adjustable sections 2518 along the edge of the patient support structure 2514 allows for the shorter actuators to be energized during this time, as a reduced height and a firm area are better for side sitting. In some embodiments, adjustable/different heights for the fluid filled cushions 2520 in the adjustable sections 2518 assist in physical therapy progression. For example, as the patient becomes stronger, a shorter adjustable section 2518 could be used over time to test the patient's strength.

[00192] In some embodiments, the adjustable sections 2518 positioned in the articulation regions of the surface of the patient support structure 2518 provide an advanced articulation (AA) bladder alternative. For example, as the head of bed (HOB) is increased and a gap is formed in the articulation region, the fluid filled cushions 2520 of the adjustable section 2518 could fill the surface gap. In some embodiments, the adjustable sections 2518 positioned in the seat section of the patient support structure 2518 drop out and/or retract to provide a void under the patient seat. For example, this can be used for bed pan positioning and caregiving activities such as wound checks and wound care.

[00193] In some embodiments, the adjustable sections 2518 located in the seat section adjust based on the sensed load of individual fluid filled cushions 2520 from the patient’s weight to retain their position. For example, if the patient is lighter, they would not require as much firm support from the surface in order to prevent migration on the surface. If the patient is heavier, they would require the fluid filled cushions 2520 that can provide firm support to minimize shear and migration. Under the seat portion, where the load is detected by the fluid filled cushions 2520 as heaviest, the fluid filled cushions 2520 would stay contracted. Under the knees, where the load is lighter, the fluid filled cushions 2520 would increase in height to conform to the body and better keep the patient in their current position. This would work in coordination with frame auto contour to more precisely sense and lock in the patient’ s position and prevent sliding down in bed. [00194] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the adjustable sections 2518 are positioned in areas such as the face, chest, abdomen, or genitals to allow the surface of the patient support structure 2514 to decrease height under body parts that need additional space while a patient is in a prone position. The adjustable sections 2518 and the fluid filled cushions 2520 within are adjusted, for example, as selected by the user or automatically actuated down and/or contracted based on the high-pressure areas changing when the patient is moved in the prone position. By contouring body protrusions, the patient would be more comfortable, be able to breathe easier, and have reduced likelihood of pressure injuries.

[00195] In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 20-25, the adjustable sections 2018 each comprise one or multiple fluid filled cushions 2020 disposed adjacent to one another. The fluid filled cushions 2020 are arranged in any suitable fashion to fit the needs of the patient. In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 2020 are distributed evenly over the adjustable section 2018 and arranged in an array. In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 2020 are distributed unevenly over the adjustable section, or are arranged in any other suitable pattern needed to engage the patient using the adjustable section 2018, as described in more detail below. [00196] Referring to Figs. 24A-24C and 9A-9C, which show detail views of the fluid filled cushions 2420, each fluid filled cushion 2420 includes multiple bladders 2430. In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 24D-24F, multiple bladders 2430 may be stacked vertically on top of one another within the same fluid filled cushion 2420. In other embodiments, as shown in Figs. 24A-24C multiple bladders 2430 may be disposed horizontally adjacent to each other within the same fluid filled cushion 2420. In some embodiments, bladders 2430 may be stacked vertically and horizontally adjacent to each other in the same fluid filled cushion 2420. Any suitable number of bladders 2430 may be disposed adjacent to one another in the same fluid filled cushion 2420. Alternatively, in some embodiments, only one bladder 2430 is disposed in a fluid filled cushion 2420. In some embodiments, some of the fluid filled cushions 2420 in the adjustable section 2418 include multiple bladders 2430 and some of the fluid filled cushions 2420 only include one bladder 2430. In some embodiments, all of the fluid filled cushions 2420 in the adjustable section 2418 include multiple bladders 2430 stacked on top of each other. Alternatively, in some embodiments, all of the fluid filled cushions 2420 in the adjustable section 2418 each include only one bladder 2430. In some embodiments, multiple fluid filled cushions 2420 may be stacked adjacent to each other, horizontally and/or vertically within a support structure 2414, to achieve the needed pressure application requirements and/or expansion and contraction needed. [00197] Each bladder 2430 within the fluid filled cushion 2420 contains a liquid 2432, positive electrodes 2434 disposed on a portion of one side of the bladder 2430, and negative electrodes 2436 disposed on a portion of an opposite side of the bladder 2430, across from the positive electrodes 2434, with the bladder 2430 and the liquid 2432 between the positive 2434 and negative 2436 electrodes. The bladder 2430 is made of any material capable of containing the liquid 2432 and having electrodes 2434, 2436 disposed over the surface, such as a polymer material. The liquid 2432 is any insulating liquid or fluid capable of providing electrical insulation between the electrodes 2434, 2436 and capable of changing shape due to movement of the electrodes 2434, 2436. In some embodiments, the liquid 2432 is, for example, a dielectric liquid.

[00198] As seen in Figs. 24A-24F, the positive electrodes 2434 are disposed and extend over a portion of one side of the bladder 2430. The negative electrodes 2436 extend opposite the positive electrodes 2434 on the opposite side of the bladder 2430. When voltage is not being supplied to the electrodes 2434, 2436, or when the bladder 2430 is not actuated, the positive 2434 and negative electrodes 2436 are spaced apart by the liquid 2432 as seen in Figs. 24A and 24D. When voltage is applied to the electrodes 2434, 2436 on either side of the bladder 2430, the positive 2434 and the negative electrodes 2436 are drawn towards each other, displacing the liquid 2432 between them and forcing the liquid towards the portions of the bladder 2430 not covered in electrodes 2434, 2436, as seen in Figs. 24B-24C and 24E-24F.

[00199] Applying a voltage across the two electrodes 2434, 2436 that are separated by the liquid 2432 results in a controllable shape change. For example, the design, shape, and positioning of the bladders 2430 allows for expanding, contracting, bending, and twisting motions. As a result, actuation of the individual bladders 2430 and/or the fluid filled cushions 2420 varies the pressure applied by the fluid filled cushions 2420 and/or dimension adjustment of the support structure 2414 at the adjustable section 2418 by turning on certain electrodes 2434, 2436, turning off other electrodes 2434, 2436, and switching the electrodes 2434, 2436 from off to on and vice versa. The plurality of fluid filled cushions 2420 and the bladders 2430 will allow for localized control of the adjustable section 2418 and the support structure 2414. In some embodiments, for example, having multiple, independently controlled bladders 2430 allows for the adjustable section 2418 to contour to the shape of the patient and control the applied pressure at individual locations.

[00200] Due to the placement of the electrodes 2434, 2436 on the bladder 2430 and the dimensions of the bladder 2430, by supplying voltage to the electrodes 2434, 2436, the electrodes 2434, 2436 force the liquid 2432 into the portion of the bladder 2430 not covered by electrodes 2434, 2436, expanding and putting pressure on the uncovered areas of the bladder 2430, as seen in Figs. 24C and 24F. The displacement of the liquid 2432 causes the dimensions of the bladder 2430 and/or the fluid filled cushion 2420 to change. For example, as seen in Figs. 24A-24F a height, a length, and/or a width of the bladder 2430 changes due to actuation of the electrodes 2434, 2436 of the fluid filled cushion 2420. This change in dimension of one or more of the bladders 2430 causes the overall dimension of the fluid filled cushion 2420 to change, for example, expanding in height and/or contract in length.

[00201] In the horizontally stacked bladders 2430 shown in Figs. 24A-24C, the width W2 of the actuated bladder 2430 as seen in Fig. 24C is greater than the width Wi of the unactuated bladder 2430 as seen in Fig. 24A. Additionally or alternatively, the length L2 of the actuated bladder 2430 as seen in Fig. 24C is less than the length Li of the unactuated bladder 2430 as seen in Fig. 24A. In some embodiments, fluid filled pouches with horizontally stacked bladders 2430, like the ones shown in Figs. 24A-24C may be used when width and/or length adjustability is desired in the patient support structure 2414. The fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120, 2220 in Figs. 20-22B include horizontally stacked bladders 2030, 2130, 2230 where the change in length L of the bladders 2030, 2130, 2230 during actuation of the electrodes is utilized to change the length L of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2120, 2220 in the adjustable sections 2018, 2118, 2218 and, consequently, the overall length L and/or width W of the support structure 2014, 2114, 2214. The fluid filled cushions 2020, 2320, 2420 in Figs. 20, 23A-23B, and 24A-24C include horizontally stacked bladders 2030, 2330, 2430 where the change in width W of the bladders 2030, 2330, 2430 during actuation of the electrodes 2434, 2436 is utilized to change the width of the fluid filled cushions 2020, 2320, 2420 in the adjustable sections 2018, 2318, 2418 and, consequently, the overall width W of the support structure 2014, 2314, 2414.

[00202] In the vertically stacked bladders 2430 shown in Figs. 24D-24F, the height H2 of the actuated bladder 2430 as seen in Fig. 24F is greater than the height Hi of the unactuated bladder 2430 as seen in Fig. 24D. Additionally or alternatively, the length L2 of the actuated bladder 2430 as seen in Fig. 24F is less than the length Li of the unactuated bladder 2430 as seen in Fig. 24D. The fluid filled cushions 2420, 2520 in Figs. 24D-24F and 25A-25C include vertically stacked bladders 2430, 2530 where the change in height of the bladders 2430, 2530 during actuation of the electrodes 2434, 2436 is utilized to change the height of the fluid filled cushions 2420, 2520 in the adjustable sections 2418 and, consequently, the overall height of the support structure 2414, 2514.

[00203] In some embodiments, as a result of the change in shape of the bladders 2030, the bladders 2030 exert a greater pressure on the patient support structure 2014 due to an increase in a specific dimension, which in turn are used to adjust, move, and/or interact with at least a portion of the patient support structure 2014 to result in movement or interaction with the patient via the patient support structure 2014. In some embodiments, the amount of overall pressure variation or dimension adjustment capable via the fluid filled cushions 2020 is increased, for example, by stacking and layering multiple bladders 2030 on top of or adjacent to each other within a single fluid filled cushion 2020 of the adjustable section 2018 to increase the total amount of expansion and/or contraction. Additionally or alternatively, a fluid filled cushion 2020 may include both horizontally and vertically stacked bladders 2030. Additionally or alternatively, a patient support structure 2014 may include fluid filled cushions 2020 with only horizontally stacked bladders 2030, fluid filled cushions 2020 with only vertically stacked bladders 2030, fluid filled cushions 2020 with both horizontally and vertically stacked bladders 2030, or some combination thereof. [00204] Multiple fluid filled cushions 2020 and bladders 2030 within each of the patient support structures 2014, may fit within the footprint of a single traditional air bladder. The use of multiple fluid filled cushions 2020 allows for more precise pressure application and control by using the adjustable section 2018 as opposed to a single traditional air bladder. Additionally or alternatively, adjacent fluid filled cushions 2020 may be independently actuated or energized as compared to a single traditional air bladder, which allows for greater control of adjustments and pressure applied to a patient via the adjustable section 2018.

[00205] Additionally, the fluid filled cushions 2020 provide a relatively compliant interface as compared to traditional methods, such as air bladders. The fluid filled cushions 2020 are relatively silent during operation as compared to traditional pneumatic designs. The fluid filled cushions 2020 also provide a more compact, lightweight, configurable, portable, cost effective, and/or customizable option as compared to traditional methods. Additionally, capability to operate each bladder 2030 within the patient support structures 2014 at varying amplitudes and frequencies allows for greater adjustability.

[00206] The relatively high resolution (smaller size and larger number of individual adjustable zones) of the adjustable section 2018 and the fluid filled cushions 2020 enable a better opportunity to contour and adjust the surface of the adjustable section 2018 and any patient support structure 2014 for comfort and caregiving needs. Traditional surfaces typically use foam, gel, or air bladders to support the patient. Foam and gel are both passive components that react to the patient load and cannot be adjusted. For example, a traditional full width seat air bladder can be replaced with ten, three-inch diameter fluid filled cushions 2020. Having ten individual patient support structures 2014 instead of a single full width bladder allows for better immersion and envelopment to improve pressure redistribution performance. Such an arrangement is beneficial for alternating pressure by being able to relieve pressure in a specific area, for example, by actuating a single fluid filled cushion 2020 or a pattern of fluid filled cushions 2020 in the adjustable section 2018, without impacting patient comfort.

[00207] Embodiments of a patient support apparatus 2600, 2700 in accordance with the present disclosure are shown in Figs. 26-27. The patient support apparatus 2600, 2700 is similar to the patient support apparatus 100 shown in Figs. 1 and 13 and described herein. Accordingly, similar reference numbers in the 2600, 2700 series indicate features that are common between the patient support apparatus 100 and the patient support apparatus 2600, 2700. The description of the patient support apparatus 100 is incorporated by reference to apply to the patient support apparatus 2600, 2700, except in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and the drawings of the respective patient support apparatus 2600, 2700.

[00208] Figs. 28-32C illustrate additional, alternative embodiments of the adjustable sections on a different embodiments of patient support structures, such as a brace 2880, a cuff 2982, a stabilization structure 3084, a wristband 3186, and a lift system 3286. Fig. 26 shows adjustable sections 2618, fluid filled cushions 2620, and bladders 2630 arranged on a footboard 2654 of the patient support apparatus 2600. Fig. 27 shows adjustable sections 2718, fluid filled cushions 2720, and bladders 2730 arranged on sideboards 2756 of the patient bed. In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 26-27, the footboard 2654 and/or the sideboards 2756 have multiple adjustable sections 2618, 2718 with the fluid filled cushions 2620, 2720. In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 2620, 2720 may have multiple bladders 2630, 2730. In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 2620, 2720 are horizontally stacked and/or vertically stacked. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 2620, 2720 may have only one bladder 2630, 2730. In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 2620, 2720 have sensors 2668, as shown in Figs. 24A-24E.

[00209] In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 2620, 2720 located on the footboard 2654 and/or the sideboards 2756 are used for patient physical therapy. For example, a patient may squat against the fluid filled cushions 2620, 2720 in the footboard 2654 for physical therapy. The sensors 2668 in the fluid filled cushions 2620 sense the force for target pressure. The target pressure could be adjusted over time to strengthen the patient’s muscles. Additionally or alternatively, with the fluid filled cushions 2620 on the footboard 2654, a patient may place their feet on the fluid filled cushions 2620 to receive a massage, and a control system 2611 may direct the fluid filled cushions 2620 to pulse and vibrate via actuation and de-actuation of the bladders 2630. [00210] In some embodiments, there are several adjustable sections 2618, 2718 with fluid filled cushions 2620, 2720 located on the sideboards 2656, 2756, a headboard 2652, 2752, and/or the footboard 2654, 2754. Physical therapy may be disguised through gamification of the sensors 2668. For example, the control system 2611 directs one sensor 2668 at a time to light up and the patient would need to push the lit up sensor 2668 to turn off the light. Then, another sensor 2668 would light up, and the process would repeat. These actions would encourage patients to move their bodies, extend their limbs, and also practice visual cues. Additionally or alternatively, the control system 2611 may direct a specific fluid filled cushion 2620, 2720 to vibrate via actuation of the bladders 2630, 2730, and the patient would need to locate the vibrating spot.

[00211] Figs. 28 and 29 illustrate other embodiments of the fluid filled cushions 2820, 2920 and adjustable sections 2818, 2918 that may be used for physical therapy. Fig. 28 shows the adjustable sections 2818 with fluid filled cushions 2820 and bladders 2830 arranged on a brace 2880. Fig. 29 shows the adjustable sections 2918 with fluid filled cushions 2920 and bladders 2930 arranged on a cuff attachment 2982 coupled to the patient bed, for example, to a sideboard 2956. The brace 2880 and/or the cuff attachment 2982 include the adjustable sections 2818, 2918 with fluid filled cushions 2820, 2920 to provide tension on a patient's limbs or to provide assistance. The brace 2880 is shown as a knee brace, but in other embodiments may be shaped to fit another body part. In some embodiments, the brace 2880 may be a foot brace 2880 or a sock containing the adjustable fluid filled cushions 2820. The brace 2880 and/or the cuff attachment 3982 assist patients during physical therapy, for example, with a therapist. In some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 29, the cuff attachment 2982 is attached to the bed frame to provide variable resistance during therapy.

[00212] Fig. 30 shows adjustable sections with fluid filled cushions 3020 and bladders 3030 arranged on a patient stabilization structure 3084. In some embodiments, for example, while a patient is on a surgical table, the fluid filled cushions 3020 hold the patient's position. In some embodiments, the patient stabilization structure 3084 is wearable and, for example, is placed on a joint to freeze the patient's limb. In some embodiments, fluid filled cushions are disposed on the ends or arms of the patient stabilization structure 3084, and are used to grab onto the patient's body to secure it to the table. This would be applicable, for example, for supporting or bracing patient limbs during surgery.

[00213] Fig. 31 shows adjustable sections with fluid filled cushions 3120 and bladders 3130 arranged on a wearable wristband accessory 3186. In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 3120 are used as a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit, either separately, or as an additional feature to on brace or built into the surface of a patient support structure 3114. TENS can help reduce a patient’s pain and help with neuropathy.

[00214] Figs. 32A-32C show adjustable sections with fluid filled cushions 3220 and bladders 3230 arranged on a lift system 3286. In some embodiments, fluid filled cushions 3220 positioned on the ends of the lift system 3286 hold onto a patient limb and simulate movement, for example, for exercise. In some embodiments, the lift system 3286 acts as additional physical therapy support outside of interaction with a physical therapist. In some embodiments, the lift system 3286 also aids in blood circulation by moving patient limbs as required.

[00215] When physical therapists visit a hospital room, they have to travel with all of their equipment. Alternatively, patients have to travel to another room in the facility to receive physical therapy, which increases a patient's risk for falling while travelling to another room. Patient support structures 114 with adjustable sections 118 and actuating fluid filled cushions 120 built into the surface/frame assembly of the structures 114 as described above and shown in the figures allow for a patient to conveniently partake in physical therapy even when the therapist is not present.

[00216] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the adjustable sections 118 and fluid filled cushions 120 are used to provide percussion and vibration (P&V) to patients. For example, the fluid filled cushions 120 in patient support structures 114 such as a mattresses and/or wearable products may provide P&V with relatively broader operating frequencies and with more direct control of displacement. For example, in some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 120 have a versatile range of displacement (expand and contracting) and can exert a force of hundreds of Newtons with bandwidth frequency ranging from 0 to 100 Hz. The design of the fluid filled cushions 120 as describe herein results in relatively more configurable, repeatable, and controlled P&V design.

[00217] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, because the fluid filled cushions 120 are operated by the application of voltage or another electrical parameter across two electrodes separated by polymer pouches, this helps to maintain its performance unaffected by the ambient pressure. In some embodiments, sensors and control systems built into the fluid filled cushions 120 and their adjustable sections 118 help in controlling amplitude/displacement of the bladders 130 and can be easily configurable for different patient weights. In some embodiments, the fluid filled cushions 120 provide relatively quiet operation of a P&V design, have fewer moving parts, provides more consistent performance across ambient pressure variations, and provides a relatively simpler design with more robust P&V function than other P&V designs. [00218] Referring back to Fig. 13, a schematic view of the patient support apparatus 100 is shown and includes the patient support structure 114 and the control system 111. The control system 111 includes the adjustable section 118, the controller 160, and the voltage source 166 that is in electrical communication with the electrodes 134, 136 (shown in Figs. 24A-4C and 9A- 9C) disposed on each bladder 130 within the adjustable section 118. The adjustable section 118 also includes the array of pressure and/or force sensors 168 in addition to the array of fluid filled cushions 120, each with respective bladders 130 and electrodes 134, 136. The controller 160 includes the memory 164 and the processor 162.

[00219] The control system 111 is in electrical communication with each one of the bladders 130 within each one of the fluid filled cushions 120 via wires connecting the voltage source 166 of the control system 111 to each one of the electrodes 134, 136 of the bladders 130. In some embodiments, the control system 111 is able to independently actuate, de-actuate, energize, and/or de-energize each bladder 130 with the voltage source 166. For example, the control system I l l is able to independently control the actuation, expansions, and/or contraction of each of the bladders 130 within each fluid filled cushion 120 based on the fluid filled cushion’s 120 specific location relative to the patient or the rest of the patient support structure 114. In some embodiments, the control system 111 actuates, de-actuates, energizes, and/or de-energizes each bladder 130 within the same fluid filled cushion 120 together. In some embodiments, the control system 111 actuates each bladder 130 within the same fluid filled cushion 120 the same amount, such that each bladder 130 within the same patient support structure 114 is actuated to the same extend or applying the same amount of pressure. In other words, in some embodiments, the control system 111 supplies the same voltage to each bladder 130 within the same fluid filled cushion 120. In some embodiments, the control system 111 actuates each bladder 130 within the same fluid filled cushion 120 differing amounts, or supplies differing amount of voltage.

[00220] In some embodiments the control system 111 controls the bladders 130 in accordance with a pre-selected program to support and/or interact with the patient via the adjustable section 118. The pressure sensors 168 are disposed throughout the adjustable section 118 to determine the pressure being applied directly or indirectly to a patient via the adjustable section 118 at each patient support structure 114 location. In some embodiments, as described above, the control system 111 is able to determine, calculate, and control the actuation of specific patient support structures 114 and adjust the pressure, support, and/or force being applied by the adjustable section 120 based on a desired pressure application and real time feedback from the sensors 168. Additionally or alternately, in some embodiments, the control system 111 controls the bladders 130 based on an input entered into the control system by a user. Additionally or alternately, in some embodiments, the control system 111 calculates the needed applied pressure or motion based on a predetermined criteria related to the patient and adjusts the patient support structures 114 accordingly. In some embodiments, the control system 111 utilizes the controller 160, memory 164, and processor 162 to carry out programs, user inputs, and/or desired adjustments to the adjustable section 118.

[00221] Although this disclosure refers to specific embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the subject matter set forth in the accompanying claims. For example, while the disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive. The disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. From reading the present disclosure, other modifications will be apparent to a person skilled in the art. Such modifications may involve other features, which are already known in the art and may be used instead of or in addition to features already described herein. In the claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality.

[00222] While the concepts of the present disclosure are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific exemplary embodiments of the disclosure have been shown by way of example in the drawings. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit the concepts of the present disclosure to the particular disclosed forms; the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[00223] As used in this application, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” of the presently described subject matter are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Specified numerical ranges of units, measurements, and/or values include, consist essentially, or consist of all the numerical values, units, measurements, and/or ranges including or within those ranges and/or endpoints, whether those numerical values, units, measurements, and/or ranges are explicitly specified in the present disclosure or not.

[00224] Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The terms “first”, “second”, “third”, and the like, as used herein do not denote any order or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another. The term “or” and “and/or” is meant to be inclusive and mean either, all, or any combination of the listed items. In addition, the terms “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings, and can include electrical connections or couplings, whether direct or indirect. Direct connection and/or coupling can include such connections and/or couplings where no intermittent connection or component is present between two endpoints, components or items. Indirect connection and/or coupling can include where there is one or more intermittent or intervening connections and/or couplings present between respective endpoints, components or items.

[00225] Approximating language, as used in this application throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about,” “substantially,” or “essentially” is not to be limited to the precise value specified. In some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and/or interchanged. Such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise.

[00226] As used in this application, the terms “may” and “may be” indicate a possibility of an occurrence within a set of circumstances; a possession of a specified property, characteristic or function; and/or qualify another verb by expressing one or more of an ability, capability, or possibility associated with the qualified verb. Accordingly, usage of “may” and “may be” indicates that a modified term is apparently appropriate, capable, or suitable for an indicated capacity, function, or usage, while taking into account that in some circumstances, the modified term may sometimes not be appropriate, capable, or suitable.

[00227] It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used individually, together, or in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the subject matter set forth herein without departing from its scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the disclosed subject matter, they are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the subject matter described herein should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. [00228] While only certain features of the described apparatus have been illustrated and described in this application, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that fall within the true spirit of the invention.

[00229] The following numbered clauses include embodiments that are contemplated and non-limiting:

[00230] Clause 1. An adjustable patient interface comprising an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient.

[00231] Clause 2. The adjustable patient interface of clause 1, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer includes at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient.

[00232] Clause 3. The adjustable patient interface of clause 2, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a liquid.

[00233] Clause 4. The adjustable patient interface of clause 3, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the bladder is responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change a shape of the bladder and/or an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion. [00234] Clause 5. The adjustable patient interface of clause 4, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable patient interface comprises a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00235] Clause 6. The adjustable patient interface of clause 5, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary the shape of the bladder and/or the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

[00236] Clause 7. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer includes a plurality of zones.

[00237] Clause 8. The adjustable patient interface of clause 7, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein at least one of the plurality of zones includes the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00238] Clause 9. The adjustable patient interface of clause 7, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer includes at least 2 zones.

[00239] Clause 10. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions. [00240] Clause 11. The adjustable patient interface of clause 10, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions includes a respective bladder comprising a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in the electric parameter to change the shape of the bladder and/or the interface pressure of each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions.

[00241] Clause 12. The adjustable patient interface of clause 11, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are distributed over substantially all of a surface of the interface layer configured to contact the portion of the patient. [00242] Clause 13. The adjustable patient interface of clause 11, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the plurality of fluid fdled cushions are disposed within the portion of the interface layer.

[00243] Clause 14. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a plurality of bladders.

[00244] Clause 15. The adjustable patient interface of clause 14, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the plurality of bladders are stacked on top of one another.

[00245] Clause 16. The adjustable patient interface of clause 15, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein each one of the plurality of bladders is in electrical communication with the controller.

[00246] Clause 17. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is disposed at an upper surface of a patient support structure.

[00247] Clause 18. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is below a top layer of a surface of a patient support structure.

[00248] Clause 19. The adjustable patient interface of clause 18, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the top layer includes a cushion positioned between the at least one fluid filled cushion and the top layer.

[00249] Clause 20. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is a portable blanket.

[00250] Clause 21. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a foam cushion.

[00251] Clause 22. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is coupled to an air bladder. [00252] Clause 23. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a spacer material, the spacer material configured to allow air to be transferred through the spacer material.

[00253] Clause 24. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a patient supporting accessory.

[00254] Clause 25. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a temperature regulating element.

[00255] Clause 26. The adjustable patient interface of clause 25, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a heating element.

[00256] Clause 27. The adjustable patient interface of clause 25, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a cooling element.

[00257] Clause 28. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion is based on an input entered into the controller by a user.

[00258] Clause 29. The adjustable patient interface of clause 6, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion is calculated by the controller based on a predetermined criteria related to the patient.

[00259] Clause 30. The adjustable patient interface of clause 29, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to massage a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer.

[00260] Clause 31. The adjustable patient interface of clause 30, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to massage the particular portion of the patient by actuating the at least one fluid filled cushion in a wave-like motion.

[00261] Clause 32. The adjustable patient interface of clause 29, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to provide a continuous pressure to a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer.

[00262] Clause 33. The adjustable patient interface of clause 29, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to provide an alternating pressure to a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer.

[00263] Clause 34. The adjustable patient interface of clause 29, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to provide a localized pressure to a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer. [00264] Clause 35. The adjustable patient interface of clause 29, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to provide pressure relief to the patient via the interface layer by achieving a localized reduction in the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

[00265] Clause 36. The adjustable patient interface of clause 29, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to redistribute the interface pressure applied to a surface of a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer.

[00266] Clause 37. A patient support cushion comprising a cushion and an adjustable patient interface coupled to a surface of the cushion.

[00267] Clause 38. The patient support cushion of clause 37, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable patient interface includes an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient.

[00268] Clause 39. The patient support cushion of clause 38, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer includes at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient.

[00269] Clause 40. The patient support cushion of clause 39, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00270] Clause 41. The patient support cushion of clause 40, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable patient interface includes a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00271] Clause 42. The patient support cushion of clause 41, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary a shape of the bladder and/or the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

[00272] Clause 43. The patient support cushion of clause 42, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support cushion is a patient bed.

[00273] Clause 44. The patient support cushion of clause 42, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support cushion is a facial support pad.

[00274] Clause 45. A patient bed comprising a bed frame and a patient support cushion coupled to the bed frame. [00275] Clause 46. The patient bed of clause 45, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support cushion comprises a cushion and an adjustable patient interface coupled to a surface of the cushion.

[00276] Clause 47. The patient bed of clause 46, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable patient interface includes an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient.

[00277] Clause 48. The patient bed of clause 47, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer includes at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient.

[00278] Clause 49. The patient bed of clause 48, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00279] Clause 50. The patient bed of clause 49, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable patient interface includes a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00280] Clause 51. The patient bed of clause 50, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary a shape of the bladder and/or the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

[00281] Clause 52. An adjustable patient interface comprising an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient.

[00282] Clause 53. The adjustable patient interface of clause 52, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer includes a plurality of fluid filled cushions positioned to support the portion of the patient.

[00283] Clause 54. The adjustable patient interface of clause 53, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions includes a respective bladder including at least two electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the bladder and a dielectric liquid.

[00284] Clause 55. The adjustable patient interface of clause 54, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the bladder is responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change an interface pressure of each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions

[00285] Clause 56. The adjustable patient interface of clause 55, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable patient interface includes a controller in electrical communication with the plurality of fluid filled cushions via the at least two electrodes. [00286] Clause 57. The adjustable patient interface of clause 56, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the dielectric liquid to vary a shape of the bladder and the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

[00287] Clause 58. A method of adjusting an interface pressure applied to a patient, the method comprising locating an interface layer in contact with a portion of the patient.

[00288] Clause 59. The method of clause 58, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer includes at least one fluid filled cushion, the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder containing a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the interface pressure of the interface layer.

[00289] Clause 60. The method of clause 59, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the method includes varying, via a controller, the electric parameter applied to the bladder to vary a shape of the bladder and/or the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient by the interface layer, the controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00290] Clause 61. A method of adjusting an interface pressure applied to a patient, the method comprising locating an interface layer in contact with a portion of the patient, the interface layer including a plurality of fluid filled cushions.

[00291] Clause 62. The method of clause 61, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions includes a respective bladder including at least two electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the bladder and a dielectric liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

[00292] Clause 63. The method of clause 62, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the method includes varying, via a controller, the electric parameter applied to the bladder to vary a shape of the bladder and/or the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient by the interface layer, the controller in electrical communication with the plurality of fluid filled cushions.

[00293] Clause 64. The method of clause 63, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the electric parameter is voltage.

[00294] Clause 65. An adjustable patient interface comprising an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the interface layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder comprising a liquid with metallic particles suspended therein, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change a shape of the bladder of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00295] Clause 66. The adjustable patient interface of clause 65, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable patient interface includes a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary the shape of the bladder and/or an interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

[00296] Clause 67. The adjustable patient interface of clause 66, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the liquid with the metallic particles suspended therein forms a thermally conductive suspension.

[00297] Clause 68. The adjustable patient interface of clause 66, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a temperature sensor disposed external to the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00298] Clause 69. The adjustable patient interface of clause 68, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion is based on an input from the temperature sensor.

[00299] Clause 70. The adjustable patient interface of clause 68, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the liquid with the metallic particles suspended therein is configured to transfer heat from the patient in contact with the interface layer to the temperature sensor.

[00300] Clause 71. The adjustable patient interface of clause 66, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in the electric parameter to change the shape of the bladder and/or the interface pressure of each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions.

[00301] Clause 72. The adjustable patient interface of clause 71, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are distributed over substantially all of a surface of the interface layer configured to contact the portion of the patient. [00302] Clause 73. The adjustable patient interface of clause 72, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a plurality of temperature sensors, each one of the plurality of temperature sensors corresponding to a respective fluid filled cushion.

[00303] Clause 74. The adjustable patient interface of clause 73, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface pressure of the each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions is based on an input from the corresponding one of the plurality of temperature sensors. [00304] Clause 75. The adjustable patient interface of clause 66, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a plurality of bladders.

[00305] Clause 76. The adjustable patient interface of clause 75, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the plurality of bladders are positioned at least partially on top of one another, each one of the plurality of bladders in electrical communication with the controller.

[00306] Clause 77. The adjustable patient interface of clause 66, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a second parameter, wherein the metallic particles are responsive to the second parameter.

[00307] Clause 78. The adjustable patient interface of clause 77, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is an electrical signal.

[00308] Clause 79. The adjustable patient interface of clause 77, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is a magnetic signal.

[00309] Clause 80. The adjustable patient interface of clause 77, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the bladder with the liquid and the metallic particles suspended therein is responsive to the second parameter.

[00310] Clause 81. The adjustable patient interface of clause 80, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect a flow of the liquid within the bladder.

[00311] Clause 82. The adjustable patient interface of clause 80, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect the shape the bladder.

[00312] Clause 83. The adjustable patient interface of clause 80, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect a position the bladder.

[00313] Clause 84. The adjustable patient interface of clause 66, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the liquid comprises a phase change material.

[00314] Clause 85. The adjustable patient interface of clause 84, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the phase change material is configured to provide at least one of heating or cooling to the patient.

[00315] Clause 86. The adjustable patient interface of clause 66, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is disposed at an upper surface of a patient support structure. [00316] Clause 87. The adjustable patient interface of clause 66, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is below a top layer of a surface of a patient support structure, the top layer including a cushion positioned between the at least one fluid filled cushion and the top layer.

[00317] Clause 88. The adjustable patient interface of clause 66, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes at least two electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the bladder, wherein the controller is in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion via the at least two electrodes and operable to vary the electric parameter applied across the at least two electrodes to vary the shape of the bladder.

[00318] Clause 89. The adjustable patient interface of clause 66, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a battery to provide the electric parameter.

[00319] Clause 90. The adjustable patient interface of clause 89, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the battery is integrated into the adjustable patient interface to provide a wireless and mobile system.

[00320] Clause 91. The adjustable patient interface of clause 66, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a patient supporting accessory. [00321] Clause 92. The adjustable patient interface of clause 68, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein a position of the patient on the adjustable patient interface is determined by the controller based on feedback from the temperature sensor.

[00322] Clause 93. The adjustable patient interface of clause 92, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion is calculated by the controller based on feedback from the temperature sensor.

[00323] Clause 94. The adjustable patient interface of clause 92, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to provide pressure relief to the patient via the interface layer by achieving a localized reduction in the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient based on feedback from the temperature sensor.

[00324] Clause 95. The adjustable patient interface of clause 92, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to redistribute the interface pressure applied to a surface of a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer based on feedback from the temperature sensor.

[00325] Clause 96. A patient support cushion comprising a cushion, and an adjustable patient interface coupled to a surface of the cushion. [00326] Clause 97. The patient support cushion of clause 96, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable patient interface includes an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the interface layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient.

[00327] Clause 98. The patient support cushion of clause 97, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a liquid with metallic particles suspended therein, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change a shape of the bladder of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00328] Clause 99. The patient support cushion of clause 98, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable patient interface includes a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary the shape of the bladder and interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

[00329] Clause 100. A patient bed comprising a bed frame, and a patient support cushion coupled to the bed frame.

[00330] Clause 101. The patient bed of clause 100, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support cushion comprises a cushion, and an adjustable patient interface coupled to a surface of the cushion.

[00331] Clause 102. The patient bed of clause 101, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable patient interface includes an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the interface layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient.

[00332] Clause 103. The patient bed of clause 102, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a liquid with metallic particles suspended therein, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change a shape of the bladder of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00333] Clause 104. The patient bed of clause 103, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable patient interface includes a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary the shape of the bladder and/or interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

[00334] Clause 105. The patient bed of clause 104, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the liquid with the metallic particles suspended therein forms a thermally conductive suspension. [00335] Clause 106. The patient bed of clause 104, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a temperature sensor disposed external to the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00336] Clause 107. The patient bed of clause 106, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion is based on an input from the temperature sensor.

[00337] Clause 108. The patient bed of clause 106, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the liquid with the metallic particles suspended therein is configured to transfer heat from the patient in contact with the interface layer to the temperature sensor.

[00338] Clause 109. The patient bed of clause 104, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in the electric parameter to change the shape of the bladder and the interface pressure of each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions.

[00339] Clause 110. The patient bed of clause 109, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are distributed over substantially all of a surface of the interface layer configured to contact the portion of the patient.

[00340] Clause 111. The patient bed of clause 110, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a plurality of temperature sensors, each one of the plurality of temperature sensors corresponding to a respective fluid filled cushion.

[00341] Clause 112. The patient bed of clause 111, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the interface pressure of the each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions is based on an input from the corresponding one of the plurality of temperature sensors.

[00342] Clause 113. The patient bed of clause 104, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a plurality of bladders.

[00343] Clause 114. The patient bed of clause 113, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the plurality of bladders are positioned at least partially on top of one another, each one of the plurality of bladders in electrical communication with the controller.

[00344] Clause 115. The patient bed of clause 104, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a second parameter, wherein the metallic particles are responsive to the second parameter.

[00345] Clause 116. The patient bed of clause 115, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is an electrical signal. [00346] Clause 117. The patient bed of clause 115, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is a magnetic signal.

[00347] Clause 118. The patient bed of clause 115, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the bladder with the liquid and the metallic particles suspended therein is responsive to the second parameter.

[00348] Clause 119. The patient bed of clause 118, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect a flow of the liquid within the bladder.

[00349] Clause 120. The patient bed of clause 118, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect the shape the bladder.

[00350] Clause 121. The patient bed of clause 118, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect a position the bladder.

[00351] Clause 122. The patient bed of clause 104, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the liquid comprises a phase change material.

[00352] Clause 123. The patient bed of clause 122, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the phase change material is configured to provide at least one of heating or cooling to the patient.

[00353] Clause 124. The patient bed of clause 104, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes at least two electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the bladder, wherein the controller is in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion via the at least two electrodes and operable to vary the electric parameter applied across the at least two electrodes to vary the shape of the bladder.

[00354] Clause 125. The patient bed of clause 104, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a battery to provide the electric parameter.

[00355] Clause 126. The patient bed of clause 125, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the battery is integrated into the adjustable patient interface to provide a wireless and mobile system.

[00356] Clause 127. A method of adjusting an interface pressure applied to a patient, the method comprising locating an interface layer in contact with a portion of the patient, the interface layer including at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00357] Clause 128. The method of clause 127, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder containing a liquid with metallic particles suspended therein, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the interface pressure of the interface layer. [00358] Clause 129. The method of clause 128, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the method includes varying, via a controller, the electric parameter applied to the bladder to vary a shape of the bladder and/or the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient by the interface layer, the controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00359] Clause 130. The method of clause 129, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the electric parameter is voltage.

[00360] Clause 131. The method of clause 129, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the liquid with the metallic particles suspended therein forms a thermally conductive suspension.

[00361] Clause 132. The method of clause 129, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a temperature sensor disposed external to the at least one fluid filled cushion, the method comprising varying the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion based on an input from the temperature sensor.

[00362] Clause 133. The method of clause 132, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising transferring heat from the patient in contact with the interface layer to the temperature sensor via the liquid with the metallic particles suspended.

[00363] Clause 134. The method of clause 129, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a plurality of bladders.

[00364] Clause 135. The method of clause 129, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a second parameter, wherein the metallic particles are responsive to the second parameter, the method further comprising varying the second parameter.

[00365] Clause 136. The method of clause 135, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is an electrical signal.

[00366] Clause 137. The method of clause 135, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is a magnetic signal.

[00367] Clause 138. The method of clause 135, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the bladder with the liquid and the metallic particles suspended therein is responsive to the second parameter.

[00368] Clause 139. The method of clause 135, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect a flow of the liquid within the bladder.

[00369] Clause 140. The method of clause 135, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect the shape the bladder. [00370] Clause 141. The method of clause 135, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect a position the bladder.

[00371] Clause 142. The method of clause 129, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the liquid comprises a phase change material.

[00372] Clause 143. The method of clause 142, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising providing at least one of heating or cooling to the patient via the phase change material.

[00373] Clause 144. A patient monitoring system comprising a monitoring layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the monitoring layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to contact the portion of the patient.

[00374] Clause 145. The patient monitoring system of clause 144, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a liquid, a dimension of the bladder corresponding to an electrical parameter.

[00375] Clause 146. The patient monitoring system of clause 145, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient monitoring system comprises a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to detect a change in the electrical parameter to determine the dimension of the bladder.

[00376] Clause 147. The patient monitoring system of clause 146, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a first electrode on a first side of the bladder and a second electrode on a second side of the bladder, the first side opposite the second side.

[00377] Clause 148. The method of clause 147, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the dimension of the bladder is a distance between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[00378] Clause 149. The method of clause 146, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to signal when the electrical parameter is outside of a predetermined range.

[00379] Clause 150. The method of clause 149, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00380] Clause 151. The method of clause 150, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient not being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion. [00381] Clause 152. The method of clause 146, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer includes an array of fluid filled cushions, each fluid filled cushion assigned a respective location in the array of fluid filled cushions corresponding to a position on the monitoring layer.

[00382] Clause 153. The method of clause 152, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to detect a position of the patient on the monitoring layer based on the electrical parameter.

[00383] Clause 154. The method of clause 153, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to detect if the patient is in a side sitting or side laying position.

[00384] Clause 155. The method of clause 149, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an immersion depth of the patient into the monitoring layer.

[00385] Clause 156. The method of clause 149, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a baseline determined by the controller. [00386] Clause 157. The method of clause 149, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an industry standard vital signal based on at least one of a size, age, or weight of the patient.

[00387] Clause 158. The method of clause 157, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a heart rate.

[00388] Clause 159. The method of clause 157, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a respiratory rate.

[00389] Clause 160. The method of clause 149, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the electrical parameter is a predetermined voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00390] Clause 161. The method of clause 160, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected dimension of the at least one fluid filled cushion that corresponds to the predetermined voltage.

[00391] Clause 162. The method of clause 149, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to cause a predetermined displacement.

[00392] Clause 163. The method of clause 149, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a frequency of operation under a predetermined input voltage with respect to a predetermined displacement. [00393] Clause 164. The method of clause 149, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined capacitance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00394] Clause 165. The method of clause 149, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined impedance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00395] Clause 166. The method of clause 149, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected current consumption of the patient monitoring system.

[00396] Clause 167. The method of clause 149, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is further operable to collect and store a baseline corresponding to the electrical parameter, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the baseline.

[00397] Clause 168. The method of clause 167, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to continuously monitor the electrical parameter and compare the monitored electrical parameter to the baseline.

[00398] Clause 169. The method of clause 146, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes bladders within the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00399] Clause 170. The method of clause 146, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer is integrated with a patient support surface.

[00400] Clause 171. The method of clause 170, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support surface is a cushion.

[00401] Clause 172. The method of clause 146, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer is an independent component configured to be positioned on a variety of pre-existing surfaces.

[00402] Clause 173. The method of clause 146, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer is a patient wearable accessory.

[00403] Clause 174. The method of clause 146, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer is positioned under a chest area of the patient.

[00404] Clause 175. The method of clause 146, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer is positioned under a high risk areas of the patient.

[00405] Clause 176. A patient monitoring system comprising a patient support surface.

[00406] Clause 177. The patient monitoring system of clause 176, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support surface includes a monitoring layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the monitoring layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to contact the portion of the patient.

[00407] Clause 178. The patient monitoring system of clause 177, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a liquid, a dimension of the bladder corresponding to an electrical parameter.

[00408] Clause 179. The patient monitoring system of clause 178, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support surface includes a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to detect a change in the electrical parameter to determine the dimension of the bladder.

[00409] Clause 180. The patient monitoring system of clause 179, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a first electrode on a first side of the bladder and a second electrode on a second side of the bladder, the first side opposite the second side.

[00410] Clause 181 . The patient monitoring system of clause 180, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the dimension of the bladder is a distance between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[00411] Clause 182. The patient monitoring system of clause 179, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to signal when the electrical parameter is outside of a predetermined range.

[00412] Clause 182. The patient monitoring system of clause 182, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00413] Clause 183. The patient monitoring system of clause 182, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient not being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00414] Clause 184. The patient monitoring system of clause 179, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer includes an array of fluid filled cushions, each fluid filled cushion assigned a respective location in the array of fluid filled cushions corresponding to a position on the monitoring layer.

[00415] Clause 185. The patient monitoring system of clause 184, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to detect a position of the patient on the monitoring layer based on the electrical parameter. [00416] Clause 186. The patient monitoring system of clause 185, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to detect if the patient is in a side sitting or side laying position.

[00417] Clause 187. The patient monitoring system of clause 182, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an immersion depth of the patient into the monitoring layer.

[00418] Clause 188. The patient monitoring system of clause 182, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds a baseline determined by the controller.

[00419] Clause 189. The patient monitoring system of clause 182, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an industry standard vital signal based on at least one of a size, age, or weight of the patient.

[00420] Clause 190. The patient monitoring system of clause 189, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a heart rate.

[00421] Clause 191. The patient monitoring system of clause 189, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a respiratory rate.

[00422] Clause 192. The patient monitoring system of clause 182, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the electrical parameter is a predetermined voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00423] Clause 193. The patient monitoring system of clause 172, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected dimension of the at least one fluid filled cushion that corresponds to the predetermined voltage.

[00424] Clause 194. The patient monitoring system of clause 182, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to cause a predetermined displacement.

[00425] Clause 195. The patient monitoring system of clause 182, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a frequency of operation under a predetermined input voltage with respect to a predetermined displacement.

[00426] Clause 196. The patient monitoring system of clause 182, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined capacitance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00427] Clause 197. The patient monitoring system of clause 182, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined impedance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion. [00428] Clause 198. The patient monitoring system of clause 182, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected current consumption of the patient monitoring system.

[00429] Clause 199. The patient monitoring system of clause 182, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is further operable to collect and store a baseline corresponding to the electrical parameter, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the baseline.

[00430] Clause 200. The patient monitoring system of clause 199, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to continuously monitor the electrical parameter and compare the monitored electrical parameter to the baseline.

[00431] Clause 201. The patient monitoring system of clause 179, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes bladders within the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00432] Clause 202. The patient monitoring system of clause 179, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer is integrated into the patient support surface.

[00433] Clause 203. The patient monitoring system of clause 202, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support surface is a cushion.

[00434] Clause 204. The patient monitoring system of clause 179, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support surface is an independent component configured to be positioned on a variety of pre-existing surfaces.

[00435] Clause 205. The patient monitoring system of clause 179, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support surface is a patient wearable accessory.

[00436] Clause 206. A patient monitoring system comprising a patient bed having a bed frame and patient support cushion.

[00437] Clause 207. The patient monitoring system of clause 206, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support cushion includes a monitoring layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the monitoring layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to contact the portion of the patient.

[00438] Clause 208. The patient monitoring system of clause 207, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a liquid, a dimension of the bladder corresponding to an electrical parameter.

[00439] Clause 209. The patient monitoring system of clause 208, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support cushion includes a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to detect a change in the electrical parameter to determine the dimension of the bladder.

[00440] Clause 210. The patient monitoring system of clause 209, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a first electrode on a first side of the bladder and a second electrode on a second side of the bladder, the first side opposite the second side.

[00441] Clause 211. The patient monitoring system of clause 210, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the dimension of the bladder is a distance between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[00442] Clause 212. The patient monitoring system of clause 209, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to signal when the electrical parameter is outside of a predetermined range.

[00443] Clause 213. The patient monitoring system of clause 212, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00444] Clause 214. The patient monitoring system of clause 212, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient not being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00445] Clause 215. The patient monitoring system of clause 214, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is operable to detect a position of the patient on the monitoring layer based on the electrical parameter.

[00446] Clause 216. The patient monitoring system of clause 212, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an immersion depth of the patient into the monitoring layer.

[00447] Clause 217. The patient monitoring system of clause 212, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds a baseline determined by the controller.

[00448] Clause 218. The patient monitoring system of clause 212, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an industry standard vital signal based on at least one of a size, age, or weight of the patient.

[00449] Clause 219. The patient monitoring system of clause 218, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a heart rate.

[00450] Clause 220. The patient monitoring system of clause 218, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a respiratory rate. [00451] Clause 221. The patient monitoring system of clause 220, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the electrical parameter is a predetermined voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00452] Clause 222. The patient monitoring system of clause 221, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected dimension of the at least one fluid filled cushion that corresponds to the predetermined voltage.

[00453] Clause 223. The patient monitoring system of clause 212, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to cause a predetermined displacement.

[00454] Clause 224. The patient monitoring system of clause 212, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a frequency of operation under a predetermined input voltage with respect to a predetermined displacement.

[00455] Clause 225. The patient monitoring system of clause 212, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined capacitance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00456] Clause 226. The patient monitoring system of clause 212, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined impedance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00457] Clause 227. The patient monitoring system of clause 212, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected current consumption of the patient monitoring system.

[00458] Clause 228. The patient monitoring system of clause 212, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the controller is further operable to collect and store a baseline corresponding to the electrical parameter, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the baseline.

[00459] Clause 229. The patient monitoring system of clause 209, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes bladders within the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00460] Clause 230. The patient monitoring system of clause 209, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer is positioned under a chest area of the patient.

[00461] Clause 231. The patient monitoring system of clause 209, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer is positioned under a high risk areas of the patient. [00462] Clause 232. A method of monitoring a parameter of a patient with a patient monitoring system, the method comprising locating the patient in contact with a monitoring layer of the patient monitoring system, the monitoring layer having at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder comprising a liquid, a dimension of the bladder corresponding to an electrical parameter.

[00463] Clause 233. The method of clause 232, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the method comprises providing an electrical input to the at least one fluid filled cushion via a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00464] Clause 234. The method of clause 233, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the method comprises detecting via the controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion a change in the electrical parameter to determine the dimension of the bladder.

[00465] Clause 235. The method of clause 234, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a first electrode on a first side of the bladder and a second electrode on a second side of the bladder, the first side opposite the second side.

[00466] Clause 236. The method of clause 235, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the dimension of the bladder is a distance between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[00467] Clause 237. The method of clause 234, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising comparing the electrical parameter to a predetermined range, and signaling an alert when the controller determines the electrical parameter is outside of the predetermined range.

[00468] Clause 238. The method of clause 237, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00469] Clause 239. The method of clause 238, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient not being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00470] Clause 240. The method of clause 237, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an immersion depth of the patient into the monitoring layer.

[00471] Clause 241. The method of clause 237, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a baseline determined by the controller. [00472] Clause 242. The method of clause 237, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an industry standard vital signal based on at least one of a size, age, or weight of the patient.

[00473] Clause 243. The method of clause 237, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the electrical parameter is a predetermined voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00474] Clause 244. The method of clause 243, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected dimension of the at least one fluid filled cushion that corresponds to the predetermined voltage.

[00475] Clause 245. The method of clause 237, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to cause a predetermined displacement.

[00476] Clause 246. The method of clause 237, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a frequency of operation under a predetermined input voltage with respect to a predetermined displacement.

[00477] Clause 247. The method of clause 237, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined capacitance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00478] Clause 248. The method of clause 237, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined impedance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00479] Clause 249. The method of clause 237, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected current consumption of the patient monitoring system.

[00480] Clause 250. The method of clause 237, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising determining a baseline measurement corresponding to the electrical parameter when the patient is not in contact with the monitoring layer, and storing the baseline measurement in a memory of the controller, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the baseline measurement.

[00481] Clause 251. The method of clause 250, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising continuously monitoring the electrical parameter, and comparing the monitored electrical parameter to the baseline measurement.

[00482] Clause 252. The method of clause 234, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer is integrated with a patient support surface. [00483] Clause 253. The method of clause 234, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer is a patient wearable accessory.

[00484] Clause 254. A patient monitoring system comprising a patient bed having a bed frame; a mattress supported by the bed frame; and a monitoring layer supported by the mattress. [00485] Clause 255. The patient monitoring system of clause 254, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer includes a plurality of soft actuators, wherein each soft actuator includes a fluid-filled cushion positioned to support a patient when the patient is positioned on the mattress, and wherein each of the plurality of soft actuators is capable of providing a shape to the fluid- filled cushion in response to an electric signal applied to the soft actuator, and wherein an electric response of the soft actuator changes in correspondence to pressure within the fluid-filled cushion caused by the patient supported on the mattress.

[00486] Clause 256. The patient monitoring system of clause 255, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a controller in communication with the plurality of soft actuators and operable to detect the electric response and to determine a patient parameter from the electric response.

[00487] Clause 257. The patient monitoring system of clause 256, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the monitoring layer is integrated in the mattress.

[00488] Clause 258. The patient monitoring system of clause 256, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient parameter comprises a parameter indicating the pressure between skin of the patient and the mattress or the monitoring layer.

[00489] Clause 259. The patient monitoring system of clause 256, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient parameter comprises a patient vital sign.

[00490] Clause 260. The patient monitoring system of clause 256, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a nurse call system, wherein the controller transmits a signal to the nurse call system when the patient parameter reaches a threshold.

[00491] Clause 261. The patient monitoring system of clause 256, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the fluid-filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a fluid, a first electrode on a first side of the bladder, and a second electrode on a second side of the bladder, the first side opposite the second side.

[00492] Clause 262. The patient monitoring system of clause 261, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the electric response is related to a distance between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[00493] Clause 263. The patient monitoring system of clause 261, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are disposed on opposite sides of the bladder to displace the fluid in the bladder upon actuation of the first electrode and the second electrode, changing the shape of the soft actuator.

[00494] Clause 264. The patient monitoring system of clause 261, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the fluid comprises a dielectric liquid.

[00495] Clause 265. A patient support structure comprising an adjustable section configured to support at least a portion of a patient, the adjustable section including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to vary the support provided by the adjustable section to the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the support provided by the adjustable section.

[00496] Clause 266. The patient support structure of clause 265, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to vary the support provided to the patient.

[00497] Clause 267. The patient support structure of clause 266, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support structure includes a patient bed frame.

[00498] Clause 268. The patient support structure of clause 267, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support structure includes a patient support cushion having a first end and a second end.

[00499] Clause 269. The patient support structure of clause 268, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion near the first end of the patient support cushion, the first end configured to support a foot of the patient.

[00500] Clause 270. The patient support structure of clause 269, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall length of the patient support cushion.

[00501] Clause 271. The patient support structure of clause 269, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the first end.

[00502] Clause 272. The patient support structure of clause 268, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion near the second end of the patient support cushion, the second end configured to support a head of the patient.

[00503] Clause 273. The patient support structure of clause 272, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the second end. [00504] Clause 274. The patient support structure of clause 268, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a first portion of the patient support cushion extending along a length of the patient support cushion between the first end and the second end.

[00505] Clause 275. The patient support structure of clause 274, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the first portion of the patient support structure extends along an edge of an upper surface of the patient support cushion.

[00506] Clause 276. The patient support structure of clause 275, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall width of the patient support cushion.

[00507] Clause 277. The patient support structure of clause 275, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion along the edge of the upper surface.

[00508] Clause 278. The patient support structure of clause 275, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a second portion of the patient support cushion extending between the first end and the second end of the patient support cushion along the upper surface on an opposite edge of the upper surface from the first portion.

[00509] Clause 279. The patient support structure of clause 268, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a central portion disposed between the first and the second end of the patient support cushion, the central portion configured to support a chest of the patient.

[00510] Clause 280. The patient support structure of clause 275, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a pressure applied by the patient support cushion to a torso of the patient.

[00511] Clause 281. The patient support structure of clause 266, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid responsive to variations in voltage to change an interface pressure of the bladder.

[00512] Clause 282. The patient support structure of clause 281, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are disposed within the adjustable section.

[00513] Clause 283. The patient support structure of clause 266, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion applied to the patient is based on an input entered into the controller by a user. [00514] Clause 284. The patient support structure of clause 266, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is configured for use in physical therapy exercise.

[00515] Clause 285. The patient support structure of clause 267, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support structure includes a footboard.

[00516] Clause 286. The patient support structure of clause 285, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion of the footboard.

[00517] Clause 287. The patient support structure of clause 286, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is configured for use as a physical therapy tool.

[00518] Clause 288. The patient support structure of clause 267, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support structure includes a sideboard.

[00519] Clause 289. The patient support structure of clause 288, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion of the sidehoard.

[00520] Clause 290. The patient support structure of clause 266, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is configured to provide percussion and vibration to the patient.

[00521] Clause 291. The patient support structure of clause 266, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is configured to stabilize a portion of the patient.

[00522] Clause 292. The patient support structure of clause 266, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is configured to massage a portion of the patient.

[00523] Clause 293. The patient support structure of clause 266, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support structure includes a patient lift, the adjustable section disposed on an end of the patient lift.

[00524] Clause 294. The patient support structure of clause 266, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member positioned to secure a portion of the patient between the first member and the second member.

[00525] Clause 295. A patient support structure comprising a bed frame, and an adjustable section configured to support at least a portion of a patient, the adjustable section including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to vary the support provided by the adjustable section to the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the support provided by the adjustable section.

[00526] Clause 296. The patient support structure of clause 295, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to vary the support provided to the patient.

[00527] Clause 297. The patient support structure of clause 296, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support structure includes a patient support cushion having a first end and a second end.

[00528] Clause 298. The patient support structure of clause 297, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion near the first end of the patient support cushion, the first end configured to support a foot of the patient.

[00529] Clause 299. The patient support structure of clause 298, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall length of the patient support cushion.

[00530] Clause 300. The patient support structure of clause 298, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the first end.

[00531] Clause 301. The patient support structure of clause 297, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion near the second end of the patient support cushion, the second end configured to support a head of the patient.

[00532] Clause 302. The patient support structure of clause 301, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the second end.

[00533] Clause 303. The patient support structure of clause 297, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a first portion of the patient support cushion extending along a length of the patient support cushion between the first end and the second end.

[00534] Clause 304. The patient support structure of clause 303, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the first portion of the patient support structure extends along an edge of an upper surface of the patient support cushion.

[00535] Clause 305. The patient support structure of clause 304, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall width of the patient support cushion. [00536] Clause 306. The patient support structure of clause 304, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion along the edge of the upper surface.

[00537] Clause 307. The patient support structure of clause 304, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a second portion of the patient support cushion extending between the first end and the second end of the patient support cushion along the upper surface on an opposite edge of the upper surface from the first portion.

[00538] Clause 308. The patient support structure of clause 297, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a central portion disposed between the first and the second end of the patient support cushion, the central portion configured to support a chest of the patient.

[00539] Clause 309. The patient support structure of clause 304, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a pressure applied by the patient support cushion to a torso of the patient.

[00540] Clause 310. The patient support structure of clause 296, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid responsive to variations in voltage to change an interface pressure of the bladder.

[00541] Clause 311. The patient support structure of clause 310, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are disposed within the adjustable section.

[00542] Clause 312. The patient support structure of clause 296, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion applied to the patient is based on an input entered into the controller by a user.

[00543] Clause 313. The patient support structure of clause 296, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is configured for use in physical therapy exercise.

[00544] Clause 314. The patient support structure of clause 296, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the bed frame includes a footboard.

[00545] Clause 315. The patient support structure of clause 314, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion of the footboard.

[00546] Clause 316. The patient support structure of clause 315, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is configured for use as a physical therapy tool. [00547] Clause 317. The patient support structure of clause 296, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the bed frame includes a sideboard.

[00548] Clause 318. The patient support structure of clause 317, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion of the sideboard.

[00549] Clause 319. A patient support structure comprising a bed frame, and a patient support cushion coupled to the bed frame, the patient support cushion comprising a cushion, and an adjustable section configured to support at least a portion of a patient, the adjustable section including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to vary the support provided by the adjustable section to the patient.

[00550] Clause 320. The patient support structure of clause 319, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion is responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the support provided by the adjustable section.

[00551] Clause 321. The patient support structure of clause 320, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to vary the support provided to the patient.

[00552] Clause 322. The patient support structure of clause 321, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support cushion has a first end and a second end.

[00553] Clause 323. The patient support structure of clause 322, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion near the first end of the patient support cushion, the first end configured to support a foot of the patient.

[00554] Clause 324. The patient support structure of clause 323, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall length of the patient support cushion.

[00555] Clause 325. The patient support structure of clause 323, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the first end.

[00556] Clause 326. The patient support structure of clause 322, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion near the second end of the patient support cushion, the second end configured to support a head of the patient.

[00557] Clause 327. The patient support structure of clause 326, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the second end. [00558] Clause 328. The patient support structure of clause 321, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a first portion of the patient support cushion extending along a length of the patient support cushion between the first end and the second end.

[00559] Clause 329. The patient support structure of clause 328, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the first portion of the patient support structure extends along an edge of an upper surface of the patient support cushion.

[00560] Clause 330. The patient support structure of clause 329, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall width of the patient support cushion.

[00561] Clause 331. The patient support structure of clause 329, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion along the edge of the upper surface.

[00562] Clause 332. The patient support structure of clause 329, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a second portion of the patient support cushion extending between the first end and the second end of the patient support cushion along the upper surface on an opposite edge of the upper surface from the first portion.

[00563] Clause 333. The patient support structure of clause 322, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section includes a central portion disposed between the first and the second end of the patient support cushion, the central portion configured to support a chest of the patient.

[00564] Clause 334. The patient support structure of clause 329, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a pressure applied by the patient support cushion to a torso of the patient.

[00565] Clause 335. The patient support structure of clause 321, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid responsive to variations in voltage to change an interface pressure of the bladder.

[00566] Clause 336. The patient support structure of clause 335, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are disposed within the adjustable section.

[00567] Clause 337. The patient support structure of clause 321, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion applied to the patient is based on an input entered into the controller by a user. [00568] Clause 338. The patient support structure of clause 321, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is configured for use in physical therapy exercise.

[00569] Clause 339. A patient support accessory comprising an adjustable section configured to support at least a portion of a patient, the adjustable section including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to vary the support provided by the adjustable section to the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the support provided by the adjustable section.

[00570] Clause 340. The patient support accessory of clause 339, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to vary the support provided to the patient.

[00571] Clause 341. The patient support accessory of clause 340, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support accessory is a wearable accessory.

[00572] Clause 342. The patient support accessory of clause 341, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support accessory is a wearable cuff.

[00573] Clause 343. The patient support accessory of clause 341, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the patient support accessory is a brace.

[00574] Clause 344. The patient support accessory of clause 340, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid responsive to variations in voltage to change an interface pressure of the bladder.

[00575] Clause 345. The patient support accessory of clause 344, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the plurality of fluid fdled cushions are disposed within the adjustable section.

[00576] Clause 346. The patient support accessory of clause 340, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion applied to the patient is based on an input entered into the controller by a user.

[00577] Clause 347. The patient support accessory of clause 340, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is configured for use in physical therapy exercise.

[00578] Clause 348. The patient support accessory of clause 340, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is configured to provide percussion and vibration to the patient. [00579] Clause 349. The patient support accessory of clause 340, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is configured to stabilize a portion of the patient.

[00580] Clause 350. The patient support accessory of clause 340, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the adjustable section is configured to massage a portion of the patient.

[00581] Clause 351. A method of adjusting support provided to a patient, the method comprising locating an adjustable section of a patient support structure in contact with a portion of the patient, the adjustable section including at least one fluid filled cushion responsive to variations in an electrical parameter to change support provided to the patient.

[00582] Clause 352. The method of clause 351, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising varying, via a controller, the electrical parameter to vary the support applied to the portion of the patient by the adjustable section, the controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

[00583] Clause 353. The method of clause 352, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a foot of the patient.

[00584] Clause 354. The method of clause 352, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a head of the patient.

[00585] Clause 355. The method of clause 352, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a side of the patient.

[00586] Clause 356. The method of clause 352, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a chest of the patient.

[00587] Clause 357. The method of clause 352, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a torso of the patient.

[00588] Clause 358. The method of clause 352, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein varying the electrical parameter comprises varying the electrical parameter based on an input entered into the controller by a user. [00589] Clause 359. The method of clause 352, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising providing percussion and vibration to the patient with the adjustable section.

[00590] Clause 360. The method of clause 352, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising providing physical therapy to the patient with the adjustable section. [00591] Clause 361. The method of clause 352, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising stabilizing a portion of the patient with the adjustable section.

[00592] Clause 362. The method of clause 352, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising massaging a portion of the patient with the adjustable section.

[00593] Clause 363. The method of clause 352, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising lifting a portion of the patient with the adjustable section.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An adjustable patient interface comprising an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the interface layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder comprising a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change a shape of the bladder and an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion, and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary the shape of the bladder and the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

2. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1, wherein the interface layer includes a plurality of zones.

3. The adjustable patient interface of claim 2, wherein at least one of the plurality of zones includes the at least one fluid filled cushion.

4. The adjustable patient interface of claim 2, wherein the interface layer includes at least 2 zones.

5. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in the electric parameter to change the shape of the bladder and the interface pressure of each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions.

6. The adjustable patient interface of claim 5, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are distributed over substantially all of a surface of the interface layer configured to contact the portion of the patient.

7. The adjustable patient interface of claim 5, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are disposed within the portion of the interface layer.

8. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a plurality of bladders.

9. The adjustable patient interface of claim 8, wherein the plurality of bladders are stacked on top of one another, each one of the plurality of bladders in electrical communication with the controller.

10. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1, wherein the interface layer is disposed at an upper surface of a patient support structure.

11. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1, wherein the interface layer is below a top layer of a surface of a patient support structure, the top layer including a cushion positioned between the at least one fluid filled cushion and the top layer.

12. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1, wherein the interface layer is a portable blanket.

13. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a foam cushion.

14. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1, wherein the interface layer is coupled to an air bladder.

15. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a spacer material, the spacer material configured to allow air to be transferred through the spacer material.

16. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a patient supporting accessory.

17. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1 , wherein the interface layer is coupled to a temperature regulating element.

18. The adjustable patient interface of claim 17, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a heating element.

19. The adjustable patient interface of claim 17, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a cooling element.

20. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1, wherein the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion is based on an input entered into the controller by a user.

21. The adjustable patient interface of claim 1, wherein the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion is calculated by the controller based on a predetermined criteria related to the patient.

22. The adjustable patient interface of claim 21 , wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to massage a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer.

23. The adjustable patient interface of claim 22, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to massage the particular portion of the patient by actuating the at least one fluid filled cushion in a wave-like motion.

24. The adjustable patient interface of claim 21, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to provide a continuous pressure to a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer.

25. The adjustable patient interface of claim 21, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to provide an alternating pressure to a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer.

26. The adjustable patient interface of claim 21, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to provide a localized pressure to a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer.

27. The adjustable patient interface of claim 21, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to provide pressure relief to the patient via the interface layer by achieving a localized reduction in the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

28. The adjustable patient interface of claim 21, wherein the predetermined criteria is operable to redistribute the interface pressure applied to a surface of a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer.

29. A patient support cushion comprising a cushion, and an adjustable patient interface coupled to a surface of the cushion, the adjustable patient interface including an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the interface layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder comprising a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion, and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary a shape of the bladder and the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

30. The patient support cushion of claim 29, wherein the patient support cushion is a patient bed.

31. The patient support cushion of claim 29, wherein the patient support cushion is a facial support pad.

32. A patient bed comprising a bed frame, and a patient support cushion coupled to the bed frame, the patient support cushion comprising a cushion, and an adjustable patient interface coupled to a surface of the cushion, the adjustable patient interface including an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the interface layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder comprising a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion, and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary a shape of the bladder and the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

33. An adjustable patient interface comprising an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the interface layer including a plurality of fluid filled cushions positioned to support the portion of the patient, each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder including at least two electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the bladder and a dielectric liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change an interface pressure of each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions, and a controller in electrical communication with the plurality of fluid filled cushions via the at least two electrodes and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the dielectric liquid to vary a shape of the bladder and the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

34. A method of adjusting an interface pressure applied to a patient, the method comprising locating an interface layer in contact with a portion of the patient, the interface layer including at least one fluid filled cushion, the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder containing a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the interface pressure of the interface layer, and varying, via a controller, the electric parameter applied to the bladder to vary a shape of the bladder and the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient by the interface layer, the controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

35. A method of adjusting an interface pressure applied to a patient, the method comprising locating an interface layer in contact with a portion of the patient, the interface layer including a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder including at least two electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the bladder and a dielectric liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient, and varying, via a controller, the electric parameter applied to the bladder to vary a shape of the bladder and the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient by the interface layer, the controller in electrical communication with the plurality of fluid filled cushions.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the electric parameter is voltage.

37. An adjustable patient interface comprising an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the interface layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder comprising a liquid with metallic particles suspended therein, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change a shape of the bladder of the at least one fluid filled cushion, and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary the shape of the bladder and interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

38. The adjustable patient interface of claim 37, wherein the liquid with the metallic particles suspended therein forms a thermally conductive suspension.

39. The adjustable patient interface of claim 37, further comprising a temperature sensor disposed external to the at least one fluid filled cushion.

40. The adjustable patient interface of claim 39, wherein the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion is based on an input from the temperature sensor.

41. The adjustable patient interface of claim 39, wherein the liquid with the metallic particles suspended therein is configured to transfer heat from the patient in contact with the interface layer to the temperature sensor.

42. The adjustable patient interface of claim 37, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in the electric parameter to change the shape of the bladder and the interface pressure of each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions.

43. The adjustable patient interface of claim 42, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are distributed over substantially all of a surface of the interface layer configured to contact the portion of the patient.

44. The adjustable patient interface of claim 43, further comprising a plurality of temperature sensors, each one of the plurality of temperature sensors corresponding to a respective fluid filled cushion.

45. The adjustable patient interface of claim 44, wherein the interface pressure of the each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions is based on an input from the corresponding one of the plurality of temperature sensors.

46. The adjustable patient interface of claim 37, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a plurality of bladders.

47. The adjustable patient interface of claim 46, wherein the plurality of bladders are positioned at least partially on top of one another, each one of the plurality of bladders in electrical communication with the controller.

48. The adjustable patient interface of claim 37, further comprising a second parameter, wherein the metallic particles are responsive to the second parameter.

49. The adjustable patient interface of claim 48, wherein the second parameter is an electrical signal.

50. The adjustable patient interface of claim 48, wherein the second parameter is a magnetic signal.

51. The adjustable patient interface of claim 48, wherein the bladder with the liquid and the metallic particles suspended therein is responsive to the second parameter.

52. The adjustable patient interface of claim 51, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect a flow of the liquid within the bladder.

53. The adjustable patient interface of claim 51, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect the shape the bladder.

54. The adjustable patient interface of claim 51, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect a position the bladder.

55. The adjustable patient interface of claim 37, wherein the liquid comprises a phase change material.

56. The adjustable patient interface of claim 55, wherein the phase change material is configured to provide at least one of heating or cooling to the patient.

57. The adjustable patient interface of claim 37, wherein the interface layer is disposed at an upper surface of a patient support structure.

58. The adjustable patient interface of claim 37, wherein the interface layer is below a top layer of a surface of a patient support structure, the top layer including a cushion positioned between the at least one fluid filled cushion and the top layer.

59. The adjustable patient interface of claim 37, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes at least two electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the bladder, wherein the controller is in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion via the at least two electrodes and operable to vary the electric parameter applied across the at least two electrodes to vary the shape of the bladder.

60. The adjustable patient interface of claim 37 further comprising a battery to provide the electric parameter.

61. The adjustable patient interface of claim 60, wherein the battery is integrated into the adjustable patient interface to provide a wireless and mobile system.

62. The adjustable patient interface of claim 37, wherein the interface layer is coupled to a patient supporting accessory.

63. The adjustable patient interface of claim 39, wherein a position of the patient on the adjustable patient interface is determined by the controller based on feedback from the temperature sensor.

64. The adjustable patient interface of claim 63, wherein the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion is calculated by the controller based on feedback from the temperature sensor.

65. The adjustable patient interface of claim 63, wherein the controller is operable to provide pressure relief to the patient via the interface layer by achieving a localized reduction in the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient based on feedback from the temperature sensor.

66. The adjustable patient interface of claim 63, wherein the controller is operable to redistribute the interface pressure applied to a surface of a particular portion of the patient via the interface layer based on feedback from the temperature sensor.

67. A patient support cushion comprising a cushion, and an adjustable patient interface coupled to a surface of the cushion, the adjustable patient interface including an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the interface layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder comprising a liquid with metallic particles suspended therein, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change a shape of the bladder of the at least one fluid filled cushion, and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary the shape of the bladder and interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

68. A patient bed comprising a bed frame, and a patient support cushion coupled to the bed frame, the patient support cushion comprising a cushion, and an adjustable patient interface coupled to a surface of the cushion, the adjustable patient interface including an interface layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the interface layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to support the portion of the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder comprising a liquid with metallic particles suspended therein, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change a shape of the bladder of the at least one fluid filled cushion, and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the liquid to vary the shape of the bladder and interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient.

69. The patient bed of claim 68, wherein the liquid with the metallic particles suspended therein forms a thermally conductive suspension.

70. The patient bed of claim 68, further comprising a temperature sensor disposed external to the at least one fluid filled cushion.

71 . The patient bed of cl im 70, wherein the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion is based on an input from the temperature sensor.

72. The patient bed of claim 70, wherein the liquid with the metallic particles suspended therein is configured to transfer heat from the patient in contact with the interface layer to the temperature sensor.

73. The patient bed of claim 68, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid, the bladder responsive to variations in the electric parameter to change the shape of the bladder and the interface pressure of each one of the plurality of fluid filled cushions.

74. The patient bed of claim 73, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are distributed over substantially all of a surface of the interface layer configured to contact the portion of the patient.

75. The patient bed of claim 74, further comprising a plurality of temperature sensors, each one of the plurality of temperature sensors corresponding to a respective fluid filled cushion.

76. The patient bed of claim 75, wherein the interface pressure of the each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions is based on an input from the corresponding one of the plurality of temperature sensors.

77. The patient bed of claim 68, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a plurality of bladders.

78. The patient bed of claim 77, wherein the plurality of bladders are positioned at least partially on top of one another, each one of the plurality of bladders in electrical communication with the controller.

79. The patient bed of claim 68, further comprising a second parameter, wherein the metallic particles are responsive to the second parameter.

80. The patient bed of claim 79, wherein the second parameter is an electrical signal.

81. The patient bed of claim 79, wherein the second parameter is a magnetic signal.

82. The patient bed of claim 79, wherein the bladder with the liquid and the metallic particles suspended therein is responsive to the second parameter.

83. The patient bed of claim 82, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect a flow of the liquid within the bladder.

84. The patient bed of claim 82, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect the shape the bladder.

85. The patient bed of claim 82, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect a position the bladder.

86. The patient bed of claim 68, wherein the liquid comprises a phase change material.

87. The patient bed of claim 86, wherein the phase change material is configured to provide at least one of heating or cooling to the patient.

88. The patient bed of claim 68, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes at least two electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the bladder, wherein the controller is in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion via the at least two electrodes and operable to vary the electric parameter applied across the at least two electrodes to vary the shape of the bladder.

89. The patient bed of claim 68 further comprising a battery to provide the electric parameter.

90. The patient bed of claim 89, wherein the battery is integrated into the adjustable patient interface to provide a wireless and mobile system.

91. A method of adjusting an interface pressure applied to a patient, the method comprising locating an interface layer in contact with a portion of the patient, the interface layer including at least one fluid filled cushion, the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder containing a liquid with metallic particles suspended therein, the bladder responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the interface pressure of the interface layer, and varying, via a controller, the electric parameter applied to the bladder to vary a shape of the bladder and the interface pressure applied to the portion of the patient by the interface layer, the controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

92. The method of claim 91, wherein the electric parameter is voltage.

93. The method of claim 91, wherein the liquid with the metallic particles suspended therein forms a thermally conductive suspension.

94. The method of claim 91, further comprising a temperature sensor disposed external to the at least one fluid filled cushion, the method comprising varying the interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion based on an input from the temperature sensor.

95. The method of claim 94, further comprising transferring heat from the patient in contact with the interface layer to the temperature sensor via the liquid with the metallic particles suspended.

96. The method of claim 91, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a plurality of bladders.

97. The method of claim 91, further comprising a second parameter, wherein the metallic particles are responsive to the second parameter, the method further comprising varying the second parameter.

98. The method of claim 97, wherein the second parameter is an electrical signal.

99. The method of claim 97, wherein the second parameter is a magnetic signal.

100. The method of claim 97, wherein the bladder with the liquid and the metallic particles suspended therein is responsive to the second parameter.

101. The method of claim 97, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect a flow of the liquid within the bladder.

102. The method of claim 97, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect the shape the bladder.

103. The method of claim 97, wherein the second parameter is configured to affect a position the bladder.

104. The method of claim 91, wherein the liquid comprises a phase change material.

105. The method of claim 104, further comprising providing at least one of heating or cooling to the patient via the phase change material.

106. A patient monitoring system comprising: a monitoring layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the monitoring layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to contact the portion of the patient; the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder comprising a liquid, a dimension of the bladder corresponding to an electrical parameter; and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to detect a change in the electrical parameter to determine the dimension of the bladder.

107. The patient monitoring system of claim 106, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a first electrode on a first side of the bladder and a second electrode on a second side of the bladder, the first side opposite the second side.

108. The patient monitoring system of claim 107, wherein the dimension of the bladder is a distance between the first electrode and the second electrode.

109. The patient monitoring system of claim 106, wherein the controller is operable to signal when the electrical parameter is outside of a predetermined range.

110. The patient monitoring system of claim 109, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

111. The patient monitoring system of claim 110, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient not being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

112. The patient monitoring system of claim 106, wherein the monitoring layer includes an array of fluid filled cushions, each fluid filled cushion assigned a respective location in the array of fluid filled cushions corresponding to a position on the monitoring layer.

1 13. The patient monitoring system of claim 112, wherein the controller is operable to detect a position of the patient on the monitoring layer based on the electrical parameter.

114. The patient monitoring system of claim 113, wherein the controller is operable to detect if the patient is in a side sitting or side laying position.

115. The patient monitoring system of claim 109, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an immersion depth of the patient into the monitoring layer.

116. The patient monitoring system of claim 109, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a baseline determined by the controller.

1 17. The patient monitoring system of claim 109, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an industry standard vital signal based on at least one of a size, age, or weight of the patient.

118. The patient monitoring system of claim 117, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a heart rate.

119. The patient monitoring system of claim 117, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a respiratory rate.

120. The patient monitoring system of claim 109, wherein the electrical parameter is a predetermined voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion.

121. The patient monitoring system of claim 120, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected dimension of the at least one fluid filled cushion that corresponds to the predetermined voltage.

122. The patient monitoring system of claim 109, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to cause a predetermined displacement.

123. The patient monitoring system of claim 109, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a frequency of operation under a predetermined input voltage with respect to a predetermined displacement.

124. The patient monitoring system of claim 109, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined capacitance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

125. The patient monitoring system of claim 109, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined impedance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

126. The patient monitoring system of claim 109, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected current consumption of the patient monitoring system.

127. The patient monitoring system of claim 109, wherein the controller is further operable to collect and store a baseline corresponding to the electrical parameter, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the baseline.

128. The patient monitoring system of claim 127, wherein the controller is operable to continuously monitor the electrical parameter and compare the monitored electrical parameter to the baseline.

129. The patient monitoring system of claim 106, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes bladders within the at least one fluid filled cushion.

130. The patient monitoring system of claim 106, wherein the monitoring layer is integrated with a patient support surface.

131. The patient monitoring system of claim 130, wherein the patient support surface is a cushion.

132. The patient monitoring system of claim 106, wherein the monitoring layer is an independent component configured to be positioned on a variety of pre-existing surfaces.

133. The patient monitoring system of claim 106, wherein the monitoring layer is a patient wearable accessory.

134. The patient monitoring system of claim 106, wherein the monitoring layer is positioned under a chest area of the patient.

135. The patient monitoring system of claim 106, wherein the monitoring layer is positioned under a high risk areas of the patient.

136. A patient monitoring system comprising: a patient support surface including a monitoring layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the monitoring layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to contact the portion of the patient; the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder comprising a liquid, a dimension of the bladder corresponding to an electrical parameter; and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to detect a change in the electrical parameter to determine the dimension of the bladder.

137. The patient monitoring system of claim 136, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a first electrode on a first side of the bladder and a second electrode on a second side of the bladder, the first side opposite the second side.

138. The patient monitoring system of claim 137, wherein the dimension of the bladder is a distance between the first electrode and the second electrode.

139. The patient monitoring system of claim 136, wherein the controller is operable to signal when the electrical parameter is outside of a predetermined range.

140. The patient monitoring system of claim 139, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

141. The patient monitoring system of claim 140, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient not being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

142. The patient monitoring system of claim 136, wherein the monitoring layer includes an array of fluid filled cushions, each fluid filled cushion assigned a respective location in the array of fluid filled cushions corresponding to a position on the monitoring layer.

143. The patient monitoring system of claim 142, wherein the controller is operable to detect a position of the patient on the monitoring layer based on the electrical parameter.

144. The patient monitoring system of claim 143, wherein the controller is operable to detect if the patient is in a side sitting or side laying position.

145. The patient monitoring system of claim 139, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an immersion depth of the patient into the monitoring layer.

146. The patient monitoring system of claim 139, wherein the predetermined range corresponds a baseline determined by the controller.

147. The patient monitoring system of claim 139, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an industry standard vital signal based on at least one of a size, age, or weight of the patient.

148. The patient monitoring system of claim 147, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a heart rate.

149. The patient monitoring system of claim 147, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a respiratory rate.

150. The patient monitoring system of claim 139, wherein the electrical parameter is a predetermined voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion.

151. The patient monitoring system of claim 150, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected dimension of the at least one fluid filled cushion that corresponds to the predetermined voltage.

152. The patient monitoring system of claim 139, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to cause a predetermined displacement.

153. The patient monitoring system of claim 139, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a frequency of operation under a predetermined input voltage with respect to a predetermined displacement.

154. The patient monitoring system of claim 139, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined capacitance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

155. The patient monitoring system of claim 139, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined impedance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

156. The patient monitoring system of claim 139, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected current consumption of the patient monitoring system.

157. The patient monitoring system of claim 139, wherein the controller is further operable to collect and store a baseline corresponding to the electrical parameter, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the baseline.

158. The patient monitoring system of claim 157, wherein the controller is operable to continuously monitor the electrical parameter and compare the monitored electrical parameter to the baseline.

159. The patient monitoring system of claim 136, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes bladders within the at least one fluid filled cushion.

160. The patient monitoring system of claim 136, wherein the monitoring layer is integrated into the patient support surface.

161. The patient monitoring system of claim 160, wherein the patient support surface is a cushion.

162. The patient monitoring system of claim 136, wherein the patient support surface is an independent component configured to be positioned on a variety of pre-existing surfaces.

163. The patient monitoring system of claim 136, wherein the patient support surface is a patient wearable accessory.

164. A patient monitoring system comprising: a patient bed having a bed frame and patient support cushion, the patient support cushion including a monitoring layer configured to contact a portion of a patient, the monitoring layer including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to contact the portion of the patient; the at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder comprising a liquid, a dimension of the bladder corresponding to an electrical parameter; and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to detect a change in the electrical parameter to determine the dimension of the bladder.

165. The patient monitoring system of claim 164, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a first electrode on a first side of the bladder and a second electrode on a second side of the bladder, the first side opposite the second side.

166. The patient monitoring system of claim 165, wherein the dimension of the bladder is a distance between the first electrode and the second electrode.

167. The patient monitoring system of claim 164, wherein the controller is operable to signal when the electrical parameter is outside of a predetermined range.

168. The patient monitoring system of claim 167, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

169. The patient monitoring system of claim 167, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient not being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

170. The patient monitoring system of claim 169, wherein the controller is operable to detect a position of the patient on the monitoring layer based on the electrical parameter.

171. The patient monitoring system of claim 167, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an immersion depth of the patient into the monitoring layer.

172. The patient monitoring system of claim 167, wherein the predetermined range corresponds a baseline determined by the controller.

173. The patient monitoring system of claim 167, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an industry standard vital signal based on at least one of a size, age, or weight of the patient.

174. The patient monitoring system of claim 173, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a heart rate.

175. The patient monitoring system of claim 173, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a respiratory rate.

176. The patient monitoring system of claim 167, wherein the electrical parameter is a predetermined voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion.

177. The patient monitoring system of claim 176, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected dimension of the at least one fluid filled cushion that corresponds to the predetermined voltage.

178. The patient monitoring system of claim 167, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to cause a predetermined displacement.

179. The patient monitoring system of claim 167, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a frequency of operation under a predetermined input voltage with respect to a predetermined displacement.

180. The patient monitoring system of claim 167, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined capacitance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

181. The patient monitoring system of claim 167, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined impedance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

182. The patient monitoring system of claim 167, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected current consumption of the patient monitoring system.

183. The patient monitoring system of claim 167, wherein the controller is further operable to collect and store a baseline corresponding to the electrical parameter, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the baseline.

184. The patient monitoring system of claim 164, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes bladders within the at least one fluid filled cushion.

185. The patient monitoring system of claim 164, wherein the monitoring layer is positioned under a chest area of the patient.

186. The patient monitoring system of claim 164, wherein the monitoring layer is positioned under a high risk areas of the patient.

187. A method of monitoring a parameter of a patient with a patient monitoring system, the method comprising: locating the patient in contact with a monitoring layer of the patient monitoring system, the monitoring layer having at least one fluid filled cushion including a bladder comprising a liquid, a dimension of the bladder corresponding to an electrical parameter; providing an electrical input to the at least one fluid filled cushion via a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion; and detecting via the controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion a change in the electrical parameter to determine the dimension of the bladder.

188. The method of claim 187, wherein the at least one fluid filled cushion includes a first electrode on a first side of the bladder and a second electrode on a second side of the bladder, the first side opposite the second side.

189. The method of claim 188, wherein the dimension of the bladder is a distance between the first electrode and the second electrode.

190. The method of claim 187, further comprising comparing the electrical parameter to a predetermined range, and signaling an alert when the controller determines the electrical parameter is outside of the predetermined range.

191. The method of claim 190, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

192. The method of claim 191, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the patient not being in contact with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

193. The method of claim 190, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an immersion depth of the patient into the monitoring layer.

194. The method of claim 190, wherein the predetermined range corresponds a baseline determined by the controller.

195. The method of claim 190, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an industry standard vital signal based on at least one of a size, age, or weight of the patient.

196. The method of claim 190, wherein the electrical parameter is a predetermined voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion.

197. The method of claim 196, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected dimension of the at least one fluid filled cushion that corresponds to the predetermined voltage.

198. The method of claim 190, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected voltage supplied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to cause a predetermined displacement.

199. The method of claim 190, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a frequency of operation under a predetermined input voltage with respect to a predetermined displacement.

200. The method of claim 190, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined capacitance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

201. The method of claim 190, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to a predetermined impedance difference across electrodes of the at least one fluid filled cushion.

202. The method of claim 190, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to an expected current consumption of the patient monitoring system.

203. The method of claim 190, further comprising determining a baseline measurement corresponding to the electrical parameter when the patient is not in contact with the monitoring layer, and storing the baseline measurement in a memory of the controller, wherein the predetermined range corresponds to the baseline measurement.

204. The method of claim 203, further comprising continuously monitoring the electrical parameter, and comparing the monitored electrical parameter to the baseline measurement.

205. The method of claim 187, wherein the monitoring layer is integrated with a patient support surface.

206. The method of claim 187, wherein the monitoring layer is a patient wearable accessory.

207. A patient monitoring system comprising: a patient bed having a bed frame; a mattress supported by the bed frame; a monitoring layer supported by the mattress, the monitoring layer including a plurality of soft actuators, wherein each soft actuator includes a fluid-filled cushion positioned to support a patient when the patient is positioned on the mattress, and wherein each of the plurality of soft actuators is capable of providing a shape to the fluid-filled cushion in response to an electric signal applied to the soft actuator, and wherein an electric response of the soft actuator changes in correspondence to pressure within the fluid- filled cushion caused by the patient supported on the mattress; and a controller in communication with the plurality of soft actuators and operable to detect the electric response and to determine a patient parameter from the electric response.

208. The patient monitoring system of claim 207, wherein the monitoring layer is integrated in the mattress.

209. The patient monitoring system of claim 207, wherein the patient parameter comprises a parameter indicating the pressure between skin of the patient and the mattress or the monitoring layer.

210. The patient monitoring system of claim 207, wherein the patient parameter comprises a patient vital sign.

211. The patient monitoring system of claim 207, further comprising a nurse call system, wherein the controller transmits a signal to the nurse call system when the patient parameter reaches a threshold.

212. The patient monitoring system of claim 207, wherein the fluid-filled cushion includes a bladder comprising a fluid, a first electrode on a first side of the bladder, and a second electrode on a second side of the bladder, the first side opposite the second side.

213. The patient monitoring system of claim 212, wherein the electric response is related to a distance between the first electrode and the second electrode.

214. The patient monitoring system of claim 212, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are disposed on opposite sides of the bladder to displace the fluid in the bladder upon actuation of the first electrode and the second electrode, changing the shape of the soft actuator.

215. The patient monitoring system of claim 212, wherein the fluid comprises a dielectric liquid.

I l l

216. A patient support structure comprising an adjustable section configured to support at least a portion of a patient, the adjustable section including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to vary the support provided by the adjustable section to the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the support provided by the adjustable section, and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to vary the support provided to the patient.

217. The patient support structure of claim 216, wherein the patient support structure includes a patient bed frame.

218. The patient support structure of claim 217, wherein the patient support structure includes a patient support cushion having a first end and a second end.

219. The patient support structure of claim 218, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion near the first end of the patient support cushion, the first end configured to support a foot of the patient.

220. The patient support structure of claim 219, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall length of the patient support cushion.

221. The patient support structure of claim 219, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the first end.

222. The patient support structure of claim 218, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion near the second end of the patient support cushion, the second end configured to support a head of the patient.

223. The patient support structure of claim 222, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the second end.

224. The patient support structure of claim 218, wherein the adjustable section includes a first portion of the patient support cushion extending along a length of the patient support cushion between the first end and the second end.

225. The patient support structure of claim 224, wherein the first portion of the patient support structure extends along an edge of an upper surface of the patient support cushion.

226. The patient support structure of claim 225, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall width of the patient support cushion.

227. The patient support structure of claim 225, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion along the edge of the upper surface.

228. The patient support structure of claim 225, wherein the adjustable section includes a second portion of the patient support cushion extending between the first end and the second end of the patient support cushion along the upper surface on an opposite edge of the upper surface from the first portion.

229. The patient support structure of claim 218, wherein the adjustable section includes a central portion disposed between the first and the second end of the patient support cushion, the central portion configured to support a chest of the patient.

230. The patient support structure of claim 225, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a pressure applied by the patient support cushion to a torso of the patient.

231. The patient support structure of claim 216, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid responsive to variations in voltage to change an interface pressure of the bladder.

232. The patient support structure of claim 231, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are disposed within the adjustable section.

233. The patient support structure of claim 216, wherein an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion applied to the patient is based on an input entered into the controller by a user.

234. The patient support structure of claim 216, wherein the adjustable section is configured for use in physical therapy exercise.

235. The patient support structure of claim 217, wherein the patient support structure includes a footboard.

236. The patient support structure of claim 235, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion of the footboard.

237. The patient support structure of claim 236, wherein the adjustable section is configured for use as a physical therapy tool.

238. The patient support structure of claim 217, wherein the patient support structure includes a sideboard.

239. The patient support structure of claim 238, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion of the sideboard.

240. The patient support structure of claim 216, wherein the adjustable section is configured to provide percussion and vibration to the patient.

241. The patient support structure of claim 216, wherein the adjustable section is configured to stabilize a portion of the patient.

242. The patient support structure of claim 216, wherein the adjustable section is configured to massage a portion of the patient.

243. The patient support structure of claim 216, wherein the patient support structure includes a patient lift, the adjustable section disposed on an end of the patient lift.

244. The patient support structure of claim 216, wherein the adjustable section includes a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member positioned to secure a portion of the patient between the first member and the second member.

245. A patient support structure comprising a bed frame, and an adjustable section configured to support at least a portion of a patient, the adjustable section including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to vary the support provided by the adjustable section to the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the support provided by the adjustable section, and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to vary the support provided to the patient.

246. The patient support structure of claim 245, wherein the patient support structure includes a patient support cushion having a first end and a second end.

247. The patient support structure of claim 246, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion near the first end of the patient support cushion, the first end configured to support a foot of the patient.

248. The patient support structure of claim 247, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall length of the patient support cushion.

249. The patient support structure of claim 247, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the first end.

250. The patient support structure of claim 246, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion near the second end of the patient support cushion, the second end configured to support a head of the patient.

251. The patient support structure of claim 250, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the second end.

252. The patient support structure of claim 246, wherein the adjustable section includes a first portion of the patient support cushion extending along a length of the patient support cushion between the first end and the second end.

253. The patient support structure of claim 252, wherein the first portion of the patient support structure extends along an edge of an upper surface of the patient support cushion.

254. The patient support structure of claim 253, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall width of the patient support cushion.

255. The patient support structure of claim 253, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion along the edge of the upper surface.

256. The patient support structure of claim 253, wherein the adjustable section includes a second portion of the patient support cushion extending between the first end and the second end of the patient support cushion along the upper surface on an opposite edge of the upper surface from the first portion.

257. The patient support structure of claim 246, wherein the adjustable section includes a central portion disposed between the first and the second end of the patient support cushion, the central portion configured to support a chest of the patient.

258. The patient support structure of claim 253, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a pressure applied by the patient support cushion to a torso of the patient.

259. The patient support structure of claim 245, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid responsive to variations in voltage to change an interface pressure of the bladder.

260. The patient support structure of claim 259, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are disposed within the adjustable section.

261. The patient support structure of claim 245, wherein an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion applied to the patient is based on an input entered into the controller by a user.

262. The patient support structure of claim 245, wherein the adjustable section is configured for use in physical therapy exercise.

263. The patient support structure of claim 245, wherein the bed frame includes a footboard.

264. The patient support structure of claim 263, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion of the footboard.

265. The patient support structure of claim 264, wherein the adjustable section is configured for use as a physical therapy tool.

266. The patient support structure of claim 245, wherein the bed frame includes a sideboard.

267. The patient support structure of claim 266, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion of the sideboard.

268. A patient support structure comprising a bed frame, and a patient support cushion coupled to the bed frame, the patient support cushion comprising a cushion, and an adjustable section configured to support at least a portion of a patient, the adjustable section including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to vary the support provided by the adjustable section to the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the support provided by the adjustable section, and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to vary the support provided to the patient.

269. The patient support structure of claim 268, wherein the patient support cushion has a first end and a second end.

270. The patient support structure of claim 269, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion near the first end of the patient support cushion, the first end configured to support a foot of the patient.

271. The patient support structure of claim 270, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall length of the patient support cushion.

272. The patient support structure of claim 270, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the first end.

273. The patient support structure of claim 269, wherein the adjustable section includes a portion near the second end of the patient support cushion, the second end configured to support a head of the patient.

274. The patient support structure of claim 273, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion near the second end.

275. The patient support structure of claim 269, wherein the adjustable section includes a first portion of the patient support cushion extending along a length of the patient support cushion between the first end and the second end.

276. The patient support structure of claim 275, wherein the first portion of the patient support structure extends along an edge of an upper surface of the patient support cushion.

277. The patient support structure of claim 276, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary an overall width of the patient support cushion.

278. The patient support structure of claim 276, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a height of the patient support cushion along the edge of the upper surface.

279. The patient support structure of claim 276, wherein the adjustable section includes a second portion of the patient support cushion extending between the first end and the second end of the patient support cushion along the upper surface on an opposite edge of the upper surface from the first portion.

280. The patient support structure of claim 269, wherein the adjustable section includes a central portion disposed between the first and the second end of the patient support cushion, the central portion configured to support a chest of the patient.

281. The patient support structure of claim 276, wherein the adjustable section is positioned to vary a pressure applied by the patient support cushion to a torso of the patient.

282. The patient support structure of claim 268, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid responsive to variations in voltage to change an interface pressure of the bladder.

283. The patient support structure of claim 282, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are disposed within the adjustable section.

284. The patient support structure of claim 268, wherein an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion applied to the patient is based on an input entered into the controller by a user.

285. The patient support structure of claim 268, wherein the adjustable section is configured for use in physical therapy exercise.

286. A patient support accessory comprising an adjustable section configured to support at least a portion of a patient, the adjustable section including at least one fluid filled cushion positioned to vary the support provided by the adjustable section to the patient, the at least one fluid filled cushion responsive to variations in an electric parameter to change the support provided by the adjustable section, and a controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion and operable to vary the electric parameter applied to the at least one fluid filled cushion to vary the support provided to the patient.

287. The patient support accessory of claim 286, wherein the patient support accessory is a wearable accessory.

288. The patient support accessory of claim 287, wherein the patient support accessory is a wearable cuff.

289. The patient support accessory of claim 287, wherein the patient support accessory is a brace.

290. The patient support accessory of claim 286, further comprising a plurality of fluid filled cushions, each of the plurality of fluid filled cushions including a respective bladder comprising a liquid responsive to variations in voltage to change an interface pressure of the bladder.

291. The patient support accessory of claim 290, wherein the plurality of fluid filled cushions are disposed within the adjustable section.

292. The patient support accessory of claim 286, wherein an interface pressure of the at least one fluid filled cushion applied to the patient is based on an input entered into the controller by a user.

293. The patient support accessory of claim 286, wherein the adjustable section is configured for use in physical therapy exercise.

294. The patient support accessory of claim 286, wherein the adjustable section is configured to provide percussion and vibration to the patient.

295. The patient support accessory of claim 286, wherein the adjustable section is configured to stabilize a portion of the patient.

296. The patient support accessory of claim 286, wherein the adjustable section is configured to massage a portion of the patient.

297. A method of adjusting support provided to a patient, the method comprising locating an adjustable section of a patient support structure in contact with a portion of the patient, the adjustable section including at least one fluid filled cushion responsive to variations in an electrical parameter to change support provided to the patient, and varying, via a controller, the electrical parameter to vary the support applied to the portion of the patient by the adjustable section, the controller in electrical communication with the at least one fluid filled cushion.

298. The method of claim 297, wherein varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a foot of the patient.

299. The method of claim 297, wherein varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a head of the patient.

300. The method of claim 297, wherein varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a side of the patient.

301. The method of claim 297, wherein varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a chest of the patient.

302. The method of claim 297, wherein varying the support applied to the portion of the patient comprises varying support applied to a torso of the patient.

303. The method of claim 297, wherein varying the electrical parameter comprises varying the electrical parameter based on an input entered into the controller by a user.

304. The method of claim 297 further comprising providing percussion and vibration to the patient with the adjustable section.

305. The method of claim 297 further comprising providing physical therapy to the patient with the adjustable section.

306. The method of claim 297 further comprising stabilizing a portion of the patient with the adjustable section.

307. The method of claim 297 further comprising massaging a portion of the patient with the adjustable section.

308. The method of claim 297 further comprising lifting a portion of the patient with the adjustable section.