Hospital bed rails are a crucial safety feature for elderly and disabled individuals in Canada. They provide vital support and stability for people who have a hard time getting in and out of bed or who are at risk of falling. There are many different types of bed rails available in the market. Each bed has unique features and benefits.
Types of Rails for Hospital Beds
Half-Length Bed Rails
Half length hospital bed rails bed rails are the most popular type of hospital bed rail. They extend only half the length of the bed. Half rails are typically used to provide support for sitting up or getting in and out of bed. They also assist in providing a barrier for patients to avoid falling of their beds during sleep time. These half rails for hospital bed are useful for patients who have difficulty with mobility but still want to get in and out of bed without help from caregivers.
Full-Length Bed Rails
Full length side rails for hospital bed are another common type of rail. They extend the full length of the hospital bed. The biggest reason why caregivers will opt for long rails versus half rails will be to prevent patients from falling out. These rails are especially important for patients who experience cognitive decline. Individuals with Alzheimer’s or any type of dementia may try to exit their bed unsafely.
A set of long rails – as long as they are deemed safe for the patient – will create a deterring barrier for that individual. Long rails also prevent a person from rolling out of bed if they become agitated during sleep. Full length hospital bed rails should always be used under the supervision of a knowledgeable caregiver.
Flip Up Half Bed Rails
Another useful kind of half-rails is the flip-up bed rail. Typical half-bed rails that can only go up and down. In contrast, flip-up rails can go from a horizontal, fixed position to a vertical, cane-like position. These types of rails offer the best of both worlds as they can be used in their horizontal position for protection during sleep. Plus, when in their vertical position, they function as a cane that helps the individual independently get in and out of bed.
Trapeze Bars
Trapeze bars are overhead bars that can be used to assist patients in changing positions or getting in and out of bed. These bars are attached to the head of the bed or are provided in free-standing models. They provide one stable point for patients to pull themselves up and out of bed. They are especially useful for those with limited upper body strength.
Bed Canes
Bed Canes are attached to a hospital bed to help patients to get in and out with extra support. Some models that can attach to regular beds, too. Bed Canes usually consist of a narrow tube with a sturdy, ergonomic handle at the top. Patients can hold on to the handle to enter and exit their beds independently. They can also re-adjust positioning during rest time.
Important questions to ask about Hospital Bed Rail Options
In addition to providing support and stability for patients, bed rails for hospital beds also offer peace of mind for caregivers and family members alike. Knowing that a loved one is safe in bed can take a lot of worry and stress away from the caregiving experience.
It is of utmost importance to remember that rails in hospital beds are designed to maintain the safety of a patient. As such, they should only be used under the guidance of an informed caregiver. If the patient lives in a retirement community or long term facility, caregivers must ask additional questions. They must first check with the administration about any applicable requirements or regulations in regards to bed rails.
The Bottom Line on Hospital Bed Rails
All in all, bed rails for hospital beds are a convenient safety feature for disabled and elderly patients across Canada. Individuals at risk of falls or having difficulty getting in and out of bed can benefit from their use. To access one of Canada’s largest selections of hospital beds and hospital bed rail options, visit Vital Mobility today. Vital Mobility is country’s largest independent provider of hospital beds for home. It is staffed by mobility experts who can help you decide which hospital bed rail may be right for you.
