The bedroom of the individual who is bedridden needs to accommodate sleeping, socialization, entertainment and dining, as well as being a safe environment.
How can the Personal Care Attendant assist the family in setting up a room to accommodate the client's needs?
Equipment
- Electric hospital beds work extremely well in the home environment. The bed gives the client an opportunity to be raised or lowered to comfortable positions. These beds may be ordered with side rails to assist the client in turning.
- Bedside tables that slide across the bed with make-up mirrors are convenient. These tables also can be raised or lowered and often have drawers to store personal items.
- Other equipment such as, bedpans, urinals, bedside commodes, elevated toilet seats, canes, wheelchairs, walkers and other adaptive equipment enable the client to have as much independence as possible and are available from hospital supply stores.
- As an alternative to the bedroom, family members often chose the living room, den or family room as a "bedroom" for the bedridden client.
- A bathroom should be near by, not only for the client's use but also for the convenience of the Personal Care Attendant.
- The room should be cheerful, with a window and hopefully with a view.
- A table at the bedside is convenient for holding the water pitcher, reading glasses, books, and remote controls.
- Lighting should be bright enough for reading and dim enough for resting. There should also be a night light for sleeping.
- Remember not to isolate the client from other people and activities. Make them part of every day routines whenever possible.
