Sliding up bariatric residents

[notanumber]

This is a difficult one, apparently. Bariatric res, never leaves the bed, doesn't tolerate bed laid flat or feet elevated very high, doesn't like slider sheets because they slide down too much (probably would be less if feet/legs were elevated more, but . . . ). Wants a draw sheet under buttocks only. Tells care aides to help her boost up by leaving side rails down so she can push up on them while they pull up behind her (reaching over rails) on the draw sheet. I reinforce good body mechanics (side rails down, bed elevated, HOB as low as tolerated), with little appreciation. Our OT put a turning sling under the mattress overlay, which the res refuses because of SOB.

I'm not sure what else to suggest/do in this situation. I'm responsible for the safety of my team - even if they get frustrated with being told not to comply with unsafe requests.

[CapeCodMermaid, RN]

I would insist they use a slip sheet. Your staff is at huge risk for injury. Patients can't refuse everything...well okay technically they can but we have to pay attention to our staff's health as well.

[ChryssyD]

Second Mermaid's motion--if your patient wants to be repositioned, she will just have to tolerate the staff doing it safely. If she refuses your safe methods, then she has refused your offer to reposition her. Document it as such and move on. Eventually she will get the message.

[NurseKatie08, MSN]

Would agree with the previous who would have to insist that the staff use proper body mechanics. However, is something like a Hercules Patient repositioning system available to order? It is a sheet/special mattress system that boosts a patient with the push of a button. We use them for our bariatric patients who are unable to get OOB and it definitely saves time and backache! Wonder if it is an option for your resident, especially since they are unable to get OOB.

Hercules Patient Repositioner