This leaflet provides information on the use of bedrails. Please ask staff if you have any questions.

What are bedrails?

Bedrails are a physical barrier on the side of hospital beds used to prevent a patient from falling out of bed. They are sometimes referred to as “cotsides” or “safety rails”. The trust’s standard beds have bedrails. They are not automatically used. Bedrails may be dropped down (out of use) or put up (in use). When bedrails are put up the patient cannot drop them down without speaking to hospital staff.  

Are bedrails helpful?  

In some cases the use of bedrails can be helpful, but not in all cases. For each patient a decision needs to be made whether bedrails should be used or not used. That decision may change during a patient’s stay.  

Why might I be safer without bedrails?

Recent research suggests that although bedrails might make you feel safe, they restrict your independence. This can create problems such as:  

  • restricting your ability to get in and out of bed by yourself
  • falling to the floor from an increased height when trying to get out of bed
  • trapping limbs between the bedrail and the mattress when trying to get out of bed  

What can be done to ensure I feel safe?

We understand that people worry about the possibility of falling out of bed. However, there are alternatives to bedrails and staff can discuss these with you to identify any concerns and fears you may have and look at how we can address them.

These include:  

  • assessing your risk of falling and discussing your needs with you
  • lowering your bed to be closer to the floor if this helps you feel secure
  • keeping your nurse call button within reach to get help when needed
  • keeping essential items nearby so that you don’t have to stretch for them
  • keeping a nightlight on so that you have some light in the dark
  • lowering bedrails during visits and having them raised again afterwards  

What if I still want bedrails?  

If you are making your own decisions freely and after full discussion of the risks, you still feel you need your bedrails in place, we will respect your decision, which will be noted in your records.  

Going home

When you are getting ready to leave hospital, plans for the future will be made with you. Do discuss with your occupational therapist if you feel bedrails would be appropriate at home.