Do you lift the mats during the day when the individuals are
not in bed? If not it is an obstacle and potential for falls. We evaluate the need
for the mat based on the history of falls. We may use it for someone who has a history
of rolling out of bed and a scoop mattress is not enough….or for someone who drops
to the floor immediately out of bed or lowers self immediately out of bed due to
weakness. We avoid them if someone has the ability to ambulate as it otherwise would
pose a risk for them if they stepped on it or tripped over it. If a half side rails
aids in repositioning, or aids in stabilizing upon standing, then potentially
that would be an option. However if it is just being added to deter them from “falling”…..
-----Original
Message-----
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: Tuesday, December 09, 2003
9:50 PM
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: Re: Falls
In a
message dated 12/9/2003 8:14:09 AM Eastern Standard Time,
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
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
|
