Bed rails, also referred to as side rails or cot sides are used throughout the care sector to reduce the risk of patients falling from their beds. While they are not suitable for everyone, they can be effective in keeping people safely in their beds, however they can also become part of the danger themselves. Ill-fitting bed rails have even been known to cause death where a patient’s neck, limbs or chest become trapped in gaps between the rails, or between the bed rail and the headboard or mattress. Other risks can include; the patient rolling over the top of the rail, climbing over it, violently shaking and dislodging rails, or injuring themselves through violent contact with the rail.
What must be done?
If bed rails are to be used, the employer of the person or people using them must ensure that they are safe. They must be inspected and any risks involved in their use should be assessed and properly managed. Some of the risks identified during the inspection include whether the patient is at risk of being trapped between the mattress and the bed rail, whether there is a danger of the patient rolling over the bed rail (for example if additional mattresses are used), and if there is a risk of the patient becoming trapped between the rail and the mattress, headboard or other parts of the bed.
How to manage bed rails safely
- Ensure that they are only provided as the correct solution to prevent falls
- Ensure that a competent person carries out a proper risk assessment. This includes taking into account the bed occupant, the bed, the mattresses, the bed rails and any associated equipment.
- Ensure that the rail is suitable for the bed and the mattress
- Make sure that the mattress fits snugly between the rails
- Ensure that the rail is correctly fitted, regularly maintained and inspected
- Make sure that gaps that could trap the neck, head or chest are eliminated
- Ensure that all staff are trained in the risk and safe us of bed rails.
What if it is too late?
If you or someone you care for has been injured as a result of an incident featuring bed rails, you might be entitled to make a claim for compensation. hospitals and care homes have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their patients, and any injury caused while in their care might be a result of negligence. Contact one of our solicitors today to see how we can help in getting you the compensation you deserve.