Quadriplegia
Must Have Products for Bedridden Patients
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volkersystems
Bedridden patients, whether confined to bed for an indefinite period as they recuperate from injury or surgery, or if they are going to be bedridden for the long term, need specialized care and equipment to provide comfort and maintain good health. Fortunately, many of these specialized necessities are available for patients who are being cared for at home, and can be prescribed by physicians to make the job of caregivers much easier to manage. Some of the most essential items for care are described below:

• Hospital Beds
The hospital bed is probably the most necessary of all equipment as it is where the patient spends most of their time. Beds range from manually operated to full electric Adjustments can be made easily to help the caregiver provide the patient with the utmost comfort. These beds are also on wheels which makes it much easier to place them in the most convenient locations. The bed itself consists of a metal frame with head and foot boards and metal springs. Side rails can be installed as an extra safety precaution where necessary.

• Special Mattresses
One of the biggest health risks to the bedridden patient is the development of pressure sores. These painful ailments can be prevented by the regular use of a low air loss mattress or a pressure relief air mattress. By gradually inflating and deflating, these special mattresses can gently turn the patient throughout the course of the day thus relieving pressure points that can develop into skin wounds.

• Over bed Tables
These tables that are fully adjustable and move easily on castors are a must have for both patient and caregiver aid. They are invaluable for feeding, bathing and putting the items that the patient may need throughout the day within easy reach. Some styles even offer a tilt option for the patient who likes, and is able to do various activities such as writing letters, doing puzzles or reading.

• Patient Lifts
One of the most difficult chores for the caregiver of a bedridden patient is lifting them out of bed for personal care or therapy, or transferring them to a chair for a change of scenery. Patient lifts can make this job much less physically draining for both the caregiver and the patient. Like hospital beds, theses lifts come in varying degrees of automation.

• Wheel Chair
Providing an opportunity to get out of bed and enjoy a change of scenery is very important to the health and well being of any patient. A wheel chair provides a means for patients to get outside, move to a community room for socializing, or sit up to a dining table to enjoy a comfortable meal time. The feeling of independence that a wheel chair can provide is very vital to every patient’s sense of self-esteem and dignity.

When searching for information about the equipment you need for your situation, be sure to inquire about the availability of used equipment and rentals. Both are usually available and can really help to stretch your care giving budget.

Rachel Clarkson
Rachel Clarkson is a bed sores specialist and a big fan and promoter of “The Volkner Turning Mattress”: http://www.Volkner.com
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