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9.4 Side Rails and Mattresses
The SOLITE UK bed range can be specified with different types of side rail, refer
to section 17 where the variants are listed. When specifying a mattress and side rail
combination a clinical assessment of the patient’s needs must be carried out in line with
local policy.
• Ensure that any mattresses used are of the correct size and type and
have been fitted correctly (see section 17) – Incorrect mattress
specification could lead to an entrapment and / or falls hazard.
• Ensure the mattress fitted is used with a compatible side rail (see
section 17).
• Do not use the side rails to move the bed – Side rail / bed frame could
be damaged.
• Do not use the side rails as a positioning aid – Side rail / bed frame
could be damaged.
9.5 Side Rail Safety
Sidhil only recommends the use of Sidhil side rails with Sidhil beds. Sidhil does not
recommend the use of any Sidhil side rails when caring for children with the exception
of the Solite ‘Safe Side’ side rail in some circumstances*.
* It is the equipment provider’s responsibility to ensure suitability for use.
• Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the design of Sidhil’s
side
rails meet the relevant safety standards, beds fitted with bed
side rails can still pose a potential risk of death from entrapment and
asphyxiation.
• All staff responsible for the purchase, selection for use, and adjusting
of bed side rails should be aware of the potential risk of entrapment
and asphyxiation when a bed is occupied.
• Care must be taken when positioning and adjusting bed side rails
to ensure that any spaces between the bed side rails, mattress
or bed frame will not allow entrapment of the occupant’s
head or body. In addition, consideration should be given to the
size and physiological condition of the occupant and an assessment
undertaken to ensure that the spacing between the bars of the
bed side rails is not wide enough to present a potential risk of
entrapment and asphyxiation. All staff responsible are to be aware
that increased vigilance is required when nursing patients in
beds fitted with bed side rails.
Caution
Warning
Warning
