What Do You Need for an Occupied Bed? Essential Supplies and Equipment

According to the CNA Training Institute, making an occupied bed is a fundamental skill in patient care that ensures comfort and hygiene. Knowing exactly what do you need for an occupied bed is crucial for caregivers to perform this task safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of skin irritation, pressure injuries, and contamination. This guide provides a comprehensive list of all the necessary supplies and equipment.

Quick Summary

This resource outlines the essential supplies and equipment required for making an occupied bed, covering everything from linens and personal protective equipment to specialized tools like draw sheets and waterproof pads. It also details the procedure for organizing materials and maintaining patient safety during the process.

Key Points

• Essential Linens: Gather a fitted sheet, draw sheet, waterproof pad, flat sheet, blanket, and pillowcases for a complete linen change.

• Required PPE: Use disposable gloves to protect both the caregiver and the patient from contamination.

• Specialty Items: Consider using a draw sheet, or lift sheet, to assist with repositioning the patient safely.

• Safety Precautions: Always lock the bed wheels, raise side rails, and adjust the bed to a comfortable height to prevent injury.

• Hygiene Protocol: Designate a separate hamper for soiled linens and perform hand hygiene before and after the procedure.

• Communication is Key: Explain the process to the patient and ensure their privacy and comfort throughout the task.

• Smooth Surfaces: Ensure sheets are pulled tight and smooth to minimize the risk of pressure sores.

Essential Supplies for Changing an Occupied Bed

Gathering all necessary supplies beforehand is essential for a smooth and safe process when changing the linens on an occupied bed. Organizing your items in the order you will use them can significantly streamline the procedure.

Bed Linens

• Bottom Sheet: Can be fitted or flat, ensuring a smooth, wrinkle-free surface.
• Draw Sheet (Lift Sheet): A smaller sheet placed across the middle of the bed to assist with repositioning.
• Top Sheet: Covers the patient.
• Blanket or Bedspread: Provides warmth as needed.
• Pillowcases: Fresh cases for pillows.
• Bath Blanket: Used for patient warmth and privacy during the change.

Personal Protective Equipment and Hygiene

• Gloves: Clean, disposable gloves protect against contamination.
• Soiled Linen Hamper or Bag: A designated place for used linens; avoid shaking linens or placing them on the floor.
• Hand Sanitizer or Soap and Water: For hand hygiene before and after the task.
• Waterproof Pad (Underpad): Protects the mattress from moisture, especially for patients with incontinence.

Additional Equipment for Assistance and Safety

• Overbed Table with Barrier: A clean surface for supplies.
• Call Light: Should be within the patient's reach.
• Bed Adjustment Controls: To raise, lower, and adjust the bed to a safe working height.

Comparison of Standard vs. Specialty Linens

Here is a comparison of standard vs. specialty occupied bed linen products:

Feature	Standard Linens	Specialty Linens (e.g., Hospital Grade)
Material	Often cotton or cotton blends.	Typically more durable polyester-cotton blends designed for repeated, high-temperature washing.
Durability	Good for home use, but may wear out with frequent industrial-style laundering.	Reinforced to withstand rigorous cleaning and heavier use.
Functionality	Basic coverage and comfort.	Often include reinforced handles on items like draw sheets for easier repositioning and lifting.
Absorbency	Low to moderate, requires separate waterproof pads for protection.	Waterproof pads have multiple layers with superior absorbency and quick-drying technology to manage incontinence.
Cost	Generally more affordable and widely available.	Can be a higher initial investment but may last longer and offer more features, providing long-term value.
Specialization	General purpose bedding.	Designed specifically for medical and caregiving environments, prioritizing patient and caregiver safety and ease of use.

Proper Preparation and Safety Measures

Before changing an occupied bed, perform hand hygiene and gather supplies. Greet the patient, explain the procedure, and ensure privacy by closing the curtains or door. Lock the bed wheels and adjust the bed height to a comfortable working level to prevent caregiver back strain. Proper preparation ensures a quicker, less stressful, and safer procedure.

Conclusion

Changing an occupied bed requires proper equipment, preparation, and attention to patient comfort and caregiver safety. Having supplies like fresh sheets, a draw sheet, waterproof pads, PPE, and a clean hamper allows for a smooth, hygienic, and respectful process. Effective technique and communication are vital for making this task a routine part of compassionate patient care. These guidelines help ensure a clean, safe, and comfortable environment for the patient. For detailed visual instruction, consider reviewing videos from professional caregiver training organizations.

Source Link: 4YourCNA

How to Prepare for an Occupied Bed Change

1. Gather all supplies: Collect all necessary linens, a bath blanket, waterproof pad, gloves, and a soiled linen bag.
2. Organize supplies: Place clean linens in the order they will be used on a clean surface with a barrier.
3. Explain the process: Inform the patient about the procedure to get their cooperation.
4. Ensure privacy: Close the door and pull the curtain around the bed.
5. Perform hand hygiene: Wash hands and put on gloves.
6. Adjust the bed: Raise the bed to a comfortable height and lock the wheels.
7. Position the patient: Gently roll the patient to the side away from where you are starting.
8. Ensure comfort: Make sure the patient is comfortable and feels secure.

Key Safety Tips for Occupied Bed Changes

• Prioritize Communication: Talk to the patient and explain each step.
• Use Proper Body Mechanics: Adjust bed height to avoid back strain.
• Work One Side at a Time: Change linens on one half before moving to the other.
• Use Bed Rails: Keep the rail up on the side the patient is turned toward.
• Roll Dirty Linens Inward: This contains soiled areas.
• Avoid Shaking Linens: Gently handle linens to prevent spreading germs.
• Check for Wrinkles: Ensure sheets are smooth to prevent pressure injuries.
• Promote Dignity: Use a bath blanket for warmth and privacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a draw sheet used for when making an occupied bed?

A draw sheet, also known as a lift sheet, is a smaller, flat sheet placed across the middle of the bed, under the patient's body. It is used to help reposition, turn, or move the patient up in bed with relative ease, reducing strain on the caregiver and friction on the patient's skin.

Why is it important to use gloves when changing an occupied bed?

Using gloves is important for infection control. It protects the caregiver from exposure to any potential bodily fluids or contaminants on the soiled linens, and it prevents the transfer of microorganisms to the patient or clean linens.

How can I ensure the patient's privacy and dignity during an occupied bed change?

To ensure privacy, you should always close the door and pull the privacy curtain. Use a clean bath blanket to cover the patient while changing the linens and remove the old top sheet from underneath it, so they are never fully exposed.

What is the proper way to handle soiled linens during an occupied bed change?

Soiled linens should be rolled inward toward the center of the bed to contain any contaminants. They should then be placed immediately into a designated soiled linen hamper or bag. You should never shake the linens or place them on the floor.

How do you avoid wrinkles in the bottom sheet of an occupied bed?

To avoid wrinkles, the clean bottom sheet should be pulled taut and tucked securely under the mattress from one side. After the patient is rolled over, the clean sheet is pulled all the way through and smoothed out completely on the other side before tucking.

What is a waterproof pad and where does it go on the bed?

A waterproof pad, or underpad, is a moisture-resistant pad placed on top of the bottom sheet and over the draw sheet. It is positioned underneath the patient's hips and bottom to protect the mattress and linens from incontinence or spills.

Should I have help when changing an occupied bed?

Yes, especially if the patient has limited mobility or is heavy. It may be necessary to have another person assist with rolling and stabilizing the patient to ensure their safety and prevent back strain for the caregivers.