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Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.

5 min

Are four side rails a restraint?

According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the determination of whether raised side rails are a restraint is highly dependent on a patient's specific circumstances. This critical distinction—whether intended for safety or involuntary confinement—is central to understanding the question, "Are four side rails a restraint?"

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4 min

Understanding How Many Side Rails Should Be Up in Nursing

According to federal guidance, using bed rails must involve a comprehensive, resident-centered approach, not a one-size-fits-all policy. The question of **how many side rails should be up in nursing** is not about a specific number, but about balancing patient safety against the risks and legal implications of physical restraints.

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5 min

Are Geri chairs allowed in nursing homes? Understanding the Rules

Government regulations have significantly reduced the use of physical restraints in healthcare, prompting many to question the use of mobility aids like geriatric chairs. While Geri chairs are allowed in nursing homes, their use is strictly governed by federal and state guidelines to ensure resident safety and independence.

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4 min

Are bed rails permitted in nursing homes? Understanding the regulations

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), bed rail entrapment incidents have resulted in hundreds of deaths and injuries, leading to stricter regulations. Understanding if and when **are bed rails permitted in nursing homes** is crucial for ensuring the safety of your loved one while adhering to federal and state guidelines.

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6 min

Do nursing homes allow overnight stays? A guide to visitor and resident policies

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), nursing home residents have the right to have visitors at any reasonable time, but the question, "Do nursing homes allow overnight stays?", has more nuanced answers. While federal regulations protect visitation rights, each facility sets specific policies for overnight guests, with provisions often varying based on the resident's health, roommate situation, and facility type. Understanding these different rules is key for both families and residents.

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3 min

What is covered under routine foot care? Unpacking the Medicare Rules

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), routine foot care is generally not covered, but exceptions exist for those with systemic medical conditions like diabetes. Understanding **what is covered under routine foot care** is crucial for older adults and their caregivers to manage healthcare expenses and ensure proper foot health.

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4 min

Can you have all four side rails up? Understanding the risks and safe alternatives

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), hundreds of entrapment incidents, including fatal ones, have been reported involving bed rails. This stark reality is why the question, **Can you have all four side rails up?**, is a serious one for caregivers, and the answer is rooted in patient safety and complex regulations.

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