(gentle music)
[Narrator] People who are spending time in bed,
particularly if the head of the bed is elevated
or if they're partially sitting up,
will naturally slide down over time.
This means you'll periodically
have to move them back toward the head of the bed.
This task is best done by two people.
The equipment you'll need for in-bed movement
might include a slider,
which can be obtained from the home care office.
An alternative is a turning sheet,
which can be made by using an extra flat sheet
that's been folded in half
and placed across the bed over the bottom sheet.
Place it from shoulder to knee under the person in the bed.
After explaining what you're going to do,
lower the head of the bed until it's flat
or as flat as the person's condition allows.
If there are wheels in the bed,
ensure they're in the lock position.
Loosen the covers and ensure that urinary drainage bags
or other tubing that are attached to the person
aren't caught or attached to the bed.
If the height of the bed can be adjusted,
raise the bed to waist height.
Remove pillows that are used for positioning.
Have them cross their arms over their chest or abdomen.
Place a pillow at the top of the bed,
just against the headboard,
for use when the person is repositioned.
Roll the turning sheet
and grasp it with your wrists in the neutral position
to avoid strain.
That is, palms up.
Your leg should be a shoulder width apart
and your knees bent.
Protect your back by tilting your pelvis.
Keep your elbows tight against the sides of your body.
Have one person count, and on three,
gently move the person toward the head of the bed
by shifting your weight sideways from one leg to the other.
If they're able, have the person tuck their chin
into their neck during the move
so their head is protected.
If possible, bend their knees
and encourage them to dig their heels into the bed
to help push with their legs.
When the move is complete,
a pillow can be placed under the knees
to support a slight bend.
This will keep the patient from sliding down again.
Once the patient is raised into a comfortable position,
smooth out the turn sheet to eliminate any wrinkles
and use pillows to ensure the person
is in a comfortable position.
If you have a hospital bed,
you can stop the person from sliding down
by gatching the knees.
That is, raising the lower end of the bed
so the knees are slightly bent.
Finally, lower the height of the bed.
(gentle music)