6
EN
and / or family� Consider not only the clinical and other needs of the patient but
also the risks of fatal or serious injury from falling out of bed and from patient
entrapment in or around the side rails, restraints or other accessories� In the US,
for a description of entrapment hazards, vulnerable patient prole and guidance to
further reduce entrapment risks, refer to FDA’s Hospital Bed System Dimensional
and Assessment Guidance To Reduce Entrapment� Outside the US, consult
the local Competent Authority or Government Agency for Medical Device Safety
for specic local guidance. Consult a caregiver and carefully consider the use
of bolsters, positioning aids or oor pads, especially with confused, restless or
agitated patients� It is recommended that side rails (if used) be locked in the full
upright position when the patient is unattended� Make sure a capable patient
knows how to get out of bed safely (and, if necessary, how to release the side
rails) in case of re or other emergency. Monitor patients frequently to guard
against patient entrapment�
Bed Height – To minimize the risk of falls or injury the bed should always be in
the lowest possible position when the patient is unattended�
Head of Bed Elevation – Keep head of bed as low as possible to help prevent
patient migration�
Skin Care – Monitor skin conditions regularly, especially at bony prominences
and areas where moisture or incontinence may occur or collect and consider
adjunct or alternative therapies for high acuity patients� Early intervention may be
essential to preventing serious skin breakdown�
WARNING
When selecting a standard mattress, ensure the distance
between the top of side rails (if used) and top of mattress (without
compression) is at least 8.66 in (220 mm) to help prevent inadvertent
bed exit or falls. Consider individual patient size, position (relative to
the top of the side rail) and patient condition in assessing fall risk.
