What is the purpose of using bed rails?

Using bed rails serves an important safety function, particularly for patients who may be at risk of falling. The design of bed rails is primarily to act as a barrier that helps prevent individuals from rolling out of bed or accidentally falling, especially during periods of rest or sleep when they might not be fully aware of their surroundings. This is particularly crucial for patients with limited mobility, cognitive impairments, or those recovering from surgery, who may not have the physical ability to easily reposition themselves or wake up completely aware of their environment.

While bed rails can also assist with patient movement and may play a role in keeping the bed looking tidy, their primary intent revolves around enhancing patient safety. Properly implemented bed rails can significantly reduce the risk of falls, which is a critical aspect of patient care, particularly in healthcare settings.