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Sometimes patients resist having a hospital bed in the home, as if it is an admission that they are seriously ill. However, a hospital bed makes caring for your loved one easier and adds to patient comfort. For example, raising the head of the bed can ease shortness of breath. A hospital bed has mechanisms that raise or lower both the head and foot of the bed.
Hospital beds also have side rails that help prevent the patient from falling. They serve to keep the patient in bed if he/she rolls to the side as well as remind the patient about the edge of the bed. Side rails can also be used for help in changing positions. They are especially important if your loved one is confused and tries to get out of bed without assistance. Remember, however, that while side rails are helpful, they cannot always prevent falls; patients have been known to crawl over or between the rails.
If your loved one refuses to use a hospital bed, use cushions (such as couch pillows) under the mattress to raise the head of the bed. Placing pillows on the bed is not as effective. Side rails can be purchased at department stores and secured in place by tucking them under the mattress. |
