As I am sure you know, a National Patient Safety Alert was issued by the MHRA in August last year which gives all those responsible for the use, purchase, prescription and maintenance of medical beds, trolleys, bed rails, bed grab handles and lateral turning devices until the 1st March 2024 (just 9 days from now) to comply – with no additional funding or support.
An unnecessary number of patients are hurt, or worse, from injuries sustained from entrapment in bed rails each year. Sometimes these are as a result of rails being used unnecessarily, sometimes they are poorly fitted or in disrepair, and sometimes they are unsuitable for the patient’s size and stature. But even if your rails are suitable, if you are someone who falls into the responsible category, you may still need to meet some outstanding actions in order to comply.
While we understand the intended purpose and concept of bed rails, we have been liaising with councils, hospitals, and healthcare professionals about an alternative solution to help with fall prevention and entrapment risks.
OUR SOLUTION
Our HD Deluxe™ Small Body Positioning Wedges can be positioned along the edge of the bed at points where the patient is at risk. Their special anti-slip surface grips the mattress surface and creates a soft barrier. Positioned directly on the mattress and covered by any type of base sheet used for bedding, (aiding downward pressure and therefore restricted wedge movement), the patient is given a safe and comfortable barrier to prevent falls whilst not causing entrapment concerns for the client or the care giver. Additionally, the patient’s skin is protected as the base sheet covers the anti-slip material. There are a number of advantages to this form of safeguarding:
- SAFER – There are no gaps or areas where the patient could be entrapped.
- INCREDIBLY VERSATILE – when a barrier isn’t needed the wedges can be easily removed and still have a lot of uses. Check out our website for some ideas!
- PSYCHOLOGICALLY MORE INVITING – nicer for the patient and their visitors as they are more accessible. If feels less confined and subsequently the patient less frail.
- COST EFFECTIVE – significantly cheaper than new beds, and with the added bonus of multiple uses.
- FLEXIBLE – it doesn’t just work for hospital beds. They are an excellent option for those prone to falling from any normal domestic bed too.
- INFECTION PREVENTION – fully wipe clean for infection prevention and control purposes to ensure good health and recyclability with stores.
You can find the wedge here: https://www.hospitaldirect.co.uk/…/bed-positioning…/
