Air-filled cushions are characterized by which statement?

• A. They do not respond to altitude changes.
• B. They are extremely heavy.
• C. They standardize shear forces regardless of inflation.
• D. They are lightweight and pressure is influenced by altitude; require diligent inflation monitoring.

Answer: (D)

Air-filled cushions work by using trapped air to provide support and redistribute pressure. The amount of air inside is what creates the cushion’s firmness, and that firmness is tied to the ambient atmospheric pressure. At higher altitudes, the surrounding pressure drops, so the cushion can lose internal pressure unless you re-inflate it. That means the cushion’s support and the way it distributes load can change with altitude, making regular inflation checks essential to maintain proper comfort and protection from pressure injuries. These cushions are also lightweight by nature, unlike solid or gel-filled options. So the statement that best fits is that they are lightweight and their pressure is influenced by altitude, requiring diligent inflation monitoring.