How to Change Bed Linens in an Occupied Bed
If you've ever provided long-term care for a bedridden client or family member, you know how much of a problem soiled linens can be. If your patient is unable to get out of bed even for a brief period, you will need to change the linens with the client "on board." Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Assess as honestly as possible your ability to move the patient in the bed. Trying to move a patient who is too heavy for you can hurt you and your patient. Get help if you need it.
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Remove the top linens from the bed. Deposit them in the plastic bag.
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Wipe up as much soil as possible, if necessary, using the rags or paper towels. Deposit the soiled rags in the plastic bag.
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Engage the rails on one side of the bed, if the bed has rails. Roll your patient to the railed side of the bed.
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Unfasten the fitted linens on the empty side of the bed. Roll the edge towards the patient, exposing the bed beneath.
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Fasten fresh linens on the now-exposed side of the bed. Smooth the fresh sheet out as far as possible, taking care to avoid contaminating the new linens.
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Engage the bed rails on the side of the bed with fresh linens. Disengage the opposite bed rails. Maneuver your patient to the newly railed side of the bed -- the side with fresh linens.
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Remove the soiled linens completely from the bed. Deposit in the plastic bag.
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Fasten the loose edge of the fresh linens onto the open side of the mattress.
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10
Tuck fresh top linens around the patient.
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Dispose of or wash the soiled linens and rags as appropriate for your situation. If you're at work, your company should have specific protocols for this situation.
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