How many use mats on the floor next to the beds as an injury prevention
for falls? Our administrator wants us to put siderails back up and take the
mats away because they are not attractive if you can believe that. Thanks
Some things to do to make the mat "more attractive" -
1. stand a solid (non-folding mat) behind the head of the bed (like a big headboard) and put a patterned fitted sheet over it to create a wall panel
2. use the folding mat as a decorative table (put a flower or other display on it during the day)
3. see if the folding mat fits in the closet
4. store the folding mat in a utility closet (put resident's name on the mat)
5. put the mat under the mattress during the day (GNA idea)
hope one of these helps.
going back to the rails is not the answer. if you need some additional research based evidence - check out the bed safety workgroup clinical guidance at http://www.ahca.org/quality/bedrails0304.pdf these are the new rules for side rails for hospitals and long term care.
darlene
