How to Help Your Family Member Feel Comfortable While He or She Is On Long Term Bed Rest

How to Help Your Family Member Feel Comfortable While He or She Is On Long Term Bed Rest

Long term bed rest places you in an emotionally and physically demanding situation in regards to managing and maintaining a feeding tube and cleaning it. There are numerous things that can affect your family member’s feelings about being confined to his or her bed. These factors may determine whether he or she will recover, and whether he or she will feel comfortable. These factors include the bedding and equipment used to keep him or her comfortable, positioned properly, and able to breathe.

Why You Need to Relieve Pressure

When a person lies in one spot for a long period of time, it is likely that he or she will develop a pressure ulcer. A pressure ulcer develops when some parts of the body are subjected to constant pressure. To alleviate this pressure, caregivers can utilize a pressure relief mattress to distribute the weight of the individual evenly. The pressure relief mattress utilizes an alternative air flow method to inflate and deflate the mattress to maintain blood flow through the entire body. It is one of the best methods to prevent the occurrence of bed sores. Since the rental prices for air mattress rentals are significantly less expensive than purchasing an air mattress, these types of mattresses are extremely popular amongst families.

Choosing the Right Support Surface

A standard mattress is insufficient for a person on full time bed rest. The support surface utilized for bed rest should adapt to the body shape of the individual. Each movement made by the individual should also be accommodated.

An air pressure mattress is also beneficial in allowing the caregiver to adjust the firmness of the mattress based upon the volume of the patient. It provides a soft yet firm support and allows for airflow regulation to help prevent overheating. If you are planning to prepare your home for home care, a medical grade air mattress could be useful. Due to the low cost of maintenance, it can be a cost effective solution.

Proper Positioning

Patient positioning is vital for both their comfort and their overall health. To avoid developing tightness and to ensure good blood circulation, patients should be repositioned every 2 3 hours. Therefore, caregivers should frequently reposition patients as needed.

Repositioning Options — Adjustable hospital beds with head and leg elevation capabilities can facilitate repositioning of the patient in bed. When combined with an inflatable air bed, caregivers can easily achieve the desired plump sleeping, reading and dining postures. Many companies that provide air mattress rentals provide bed and pressure relief surfaces together in one package.

Cleaning and Drying Bedding

Maintaining Good Hygiene During Prolonged Bed Rest Excess moisture or sweating can cause irritation and chafing of the skin. Medically designed breathable sheeting and bedding should be used on your mattress.

One should periodically clean and disinfect such mats utilizing mild disinfectants when using a medical grade pressure relief air mattress rental. Alternating air mattresses are equipped with an airflow system to ensure that the mattress remains dry and free from odors. The patient is able to sleep comfortably and safely due to this feature.

Room Temperature Control

Room temperature has a significant impact on how comfortable your family member will feel. Restlessness will occur when a room heater or cooler makes them uncomfortable. Built in internal airflow systems that support air circulation to gently equilibrate the ambient temperature level as you sleep are characteristic of the design of alternating air mattresses. Maintain the room at a consistent temperature of between 21–23°C (70–73°F), with sufficient ventilation to optimize humidity formation and diffusion. They will rest better if they perceive that the environment is quiet and stable.

Comfort Accessories

Small details can have a major impact on comfort. Examples of comfort accessories include bedside tables, back supports and wedge pillows that allow patients to remain comfortable while eating or reading in bed. Alternatively, consider renting a hospital quality air mattress that allows you to adjust the air pressure to suit your desired comfort level. Additionally, some models come with a digital control unit to automatically control airflow according to predetermined parameters for the patient. This adds flexibility, and improves quality of rest.

Encourage Movement and Circulation

Even though gentle movements are essential, they continue to be necessary during extended bed rest. If possible, encourage patients’ active restorative movements in their legs or arms. This will help prevent stiffness and improve circulation. Alternating pressure mattresses aid this process by continuously shifting the pressure over different areas of the body. The action simulates normal body motion, and reduces the likelihood of ulcers or muscle spasm. This is why healthcare professionals often recommend air mattresses for use in medical situations requiring prolonged periods of recovery.

Nutrition, Hydration, and More Than Just a Mattress: How Diet Contributes to Comfort

Dietary habits that are rich in protein, vitamins, and fluids will help to speed up skin and tissue repair. Dehydration increases the liability of skin ulcers. As long as the patient is taken care of internally, magic occurs on the outside with good nutritional habits (of course, best accomplished with a pressure relief mattress). Opt For Short Term Rentals Over Purchasing Equipment

If your loved one requires short term recovery after surgery or from an illness, it would be advisable to opt for short term rentals. For example, rent an air mattress for one week or one month in Toronto and surrounding GTA areas. Various medical grade air mattresses are available for rent depending on your patient’s condition; once recovered you can return it. Short term rentals save you space and money while bringing hospital grade comfort into your home.

Obtain Expert Advice

Each patient has specific requirements. Before deciding what type of mattress to choose, consult a healthcare professional. They can advise you on what type of alternating pressure mattress system would meet your patient’s mobility level, medical conditions, and weight requirements. Hospital Bed Rental Inc. offers various air mattress rental plans including hospital bed packages in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, and Oakville. Our team of experts assist you in choosing the correct equipment for your needs; we also assist in setting up your new equipment so you are comfortable and safe.

Conclusion

Bed rest for an extended period does require more than just caring for a loved one with patience and love it requires creating a supportive environment. Providing comfort and safety for individuals experiencing sustained bed rest can be achieved through promoting circulation, reducing discomfort, and preventing sores via a pressure relief air mattress. Air mattresses can provide hospital grade comfort in your home whenever you need it; whether it is for temporary recovery or longer term care.