Procedure of Making an Occupied Bed

Procedure of Making an Occupied Bed

Equipment
■ Bottom and top sheets, drawsheet, pillowcase for each of the pillows.
■ Bath blanket.
■ Linen bag or hamper.
■ Procedure gloves (if exposure to body fluids is possible).
■ Moisture-proof gown (if heavy soiling of linens with body fluids is possible).

Assessment
■ Assess:
■ Ability to move.
■ Need for patient-handling devices.
■ Drainage or incontinence. Post-Procedure Reassessment
■ Assess how well the patient tolerated the procedure (e.g., discomfort, shortness of breath, etc.)
■ Ask the patient whether he feels comfortable.

Key Points
■ Be Safe! Maintain patient safety during the procedure. Always raise the siderail before moving to the other side of the bed.
■ Elevate the bed to working height, position patient laterally near the far siderail, and roll soiled linen under him.
■ Place clean linens on the side nearest you, and then tuck under the soiled linen.
■ Roll the patient over the “hump,” and position him on his other side, near you. Raise the near siderail.
■ Move to other side of bed; lower the siderail; pull soiled and clean linen through; and complete the linen change.
■ Be Smart! Don’t forget to miter corners and make a toe pleat.
■ Remove the bath blanket without exposing the patient.
■ Be Safe! Place the bed in a low position, raise the siderails, and fasten the call light to the pillow.

Documentation
■ Linen changes are generally recorded on a checklist.
■ A nursing note is needed only if something abnormal occurred.

Making a toe pleat