Sassy1

I am still gathering information related to the use of side rails. I think most of the people that have replied may have worked in long term care/ Nursing home units etc. What about hospitals? How are you using side rails in med surg units? Do you use the hi-low beds that can be lowered to about 12 inches off the floor and does anyone use fall pads in the Med surg area? What is going on in the private sector? I have worked for 17 years for the VA. I am working with a committee that deals with patient safety issues. Side rails is one on the main concerns. Please let me know what kind of unit you work on and what you are doing with side rails and why. Many thanks!

Is there a difference between the policy for side rails in a Nursing Home as opposed to a Hospital setting?

Has anyone been pleased with the use of the fall pads? Have they been known to reduce injury with falls? Does anyone use them consistently? How are they cleaned?What is the criteria for having one order for a specific patient or does anyone that is deemed at risk for fall have one ordered?

We are discussing the use of side rails and if they are considered restraints. What are your thoughts on 2 rails vs full or 4 rail sustem? Do your patient have to sign for refusal of siderails? What is going on out there with side rails?