Many care beds are complimented by integrated bed side rails.

These can help prevent users from falling from the bed involuntarily and can be used as an aid to maximise the users mobility, by helping them into and out of the bed.

There are two distinct types of integrated side rails:

  •  Full length bed side rails
  •  Two part, split (or non-restraining) bed side rails

 

Full length side rails slide up an down in runners positioned in the head and footboards and span the entire length of the bed.

When not in use the rails can be lowered below the level of the mattress to ensure they do not hinder the user transferring into and out of bed.

Full length side rails can be found on Volker 2080 & S280 adjustable beds.

Optional side rail height extensions are available which would effectively allow a combined mattress height of nearly 7", allowing mattress overlays or air mattresses below this height to be used safely in compliance with HSE guidelines.

Some adjustable beds utilise four independent side rails that move in line with the profile of the lying surface.

The major benefits with this arrangement is that users are still protected from falling from the bed, even when in a sitting position. The rails can also be used to aid the user to a standing position, especially when used in conjunction with the height adjustment feature. When not in use the side rails fold neatly and discreetly away below the lying surface.

Two part side rails can be found on Volker 3080, 5380 & S380 adjustable beds.

Two part bed side rails may be ordered with extra maximum height (40cm above lying surface) which would effectively allow a combined mattress height of nearly 7", allowing mattress overlays or air mattresses below this height to be used safely in compliance with HSE guidelines.

BaKare have provided a guide to safe use of bed side rails and compliance with HSE here. If you would like to speak to one of our epxerts regarding safe use of bed side rails, please contact us.