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In partnership with clinicians, we identified variation in the use of of bed rails across Victorian healthcare services and public residential aged care facilities.
In Australia and overseas, inappropriate use of bed rails has been known to cause injuries and deaths when people have attempted to climb over or through gaps in the bed rails.
We worked with an expert working group of clinicians and consumers to develop clinical guidance. This guidance provides advice for hospital, aged care and community-based health care professionals who are managing a request for the use of bed rails for a person in their care.
Outcome
Our expert working group developed clinical guidance and a quick reference flowchart to be used by clinicians when assessing patients suitability to use bed rails.
In addition, consumer information sheets have been developed that can be adapted and used to inform patients/clients and their family and friends.
Target
Increased knowledge and assessment of the risk of using bed rails and informed consent.