Caring for an Elderly Loved One in a Hospital Bed
<p></p> <img src="https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/dcr-apis/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/AdobeStock_492004718.webp" alt="undefined" style="height: ;width: "/> <p></p> <p><em>Originally written by Jackie Tucker of Care From The Heart - In Home Services, Inc. </em></p> <p>When an elderly loved one transitions to a hospital bed, it’s important to know a few safety and care guidelines. Here are three to keep in mind:</p> <p>1. Always maintain the hospital bed at the lowest possible position level. This will minimize any injuries in the event that your loved one falls out of bed.</p> <p>2. If your elderly loved one is eating or drinking in bed, take steps to prevent choking. First, raise the head of the bed to a 45-degree angle. Next, roll up a towel and place it behind your loved one’s neck—this will help keep the neck straight.</p> <p>3. In the event that your loved one falls out of their hospital bed, you’ll need to know how to spot the signs of a major injury. For example, before helping your loved one up, look at their legs, which should be parallel and equal in length. If one leg appears longer than the other, this may be an indication of a hip fracture.</p> <p><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a></p> <p><strong>Related Articles</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Nursing-Homes/" target="_self">Your Comprehensive Guide to Nursing Homes</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a> </p>
