If you work in a care environment or have loved ones in care you’ll know that with certain clinical conditions the risk of falling from bed (bed falls) can be increased. Whether it’s an increased risk of falling due to uncontrolled movements during sleep because of neurological conditions, or an attempt to get out of bed unsupervised as a result of a cognitive impairment, bed falls can pose a significant health risk to patients.
Traditionally, there are a number of methods used to prevent bed falls or limit the damage they cause. Side rails and bumpers can be effective in some circumstances, but in the instances of cognitive impairment, a patient may be at further risk when attempting to climb over the rails due to confusion or disorientation. Further more, the rails can create an environment of claustrophobia causing the patient to become distressed or agitated. A mattress on the floor will prevent an injury should a patient roll out of bed, but it can seem undignified, and it presents challenges to care givers when handling the patient.
In some instances, a crash mat can lessen the impact of a fall, but again care givers may find it inhibits work, and it can cause a trip hazard for patients during waking hours. Round the clock supervision is an effective method, but it is almost certain to place strain on the caregivers, whether in a residential care setting, or in a family home.
The most common method in care environments is to use a low profile bed with a motor to raise and lower the patient as necessary. Lowering the bed during sleep to reduce the distance should a fall occur, raising the bed to allow the caregivers access to the patient. The downside of such care beds is that the motors are normally housed in the end of the bed, making access for carers difficult when procedures such as foot washing need to occur, and making it difficult for patients to see around the room fully.
At Innova we’ve found what we believe to be the perfect solution in our LowLine Ultra Low Bed. Thanks to a unique mechanism, the LowLine drops to an ultra low 10cm from the ground, negating any risk of injury from a bed fall or the need for side bars. In addition, the ends are similar to that of any normal bed, and are completely removable, allowing caregivers complete access to the patient whatever the circumstances. The LowLine still has all the features you’d expect from a low profiling bed, such as backrest adjustment, but thanks to its unique design it allows the patient to view the room completely, creating a more relaxing environment.
We’ve already had a great response to the LowLine with some amazing feedback from our customers and a number of orders, despite it being on the market for just a few weeks. It’s ideal for care environments for hospices and hospitals. For more information, call us on 0345 034 1450 or drop us an email at [email protected]
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