Occupational Therapy Leaflet: Bed Lever / Bed Grab Handle Safety Information

Leaflet Details

Patient Information

Introduction

You have been prescribed a bed grab handle following a risk assessment. They can also be called grab rail, bed lever or bed stick.

This leaflet gives you advice on the safe use, installation of a bed grab handle and information about what to do if you are experiencing difficulties with it.

We need to bring to your attention the fact that there have unfortunately been some incidents nationally where these items have been linked to injury and entrapment.

Details can be found at:
https://www.gov.uk/drug-device-alerts/national-patient-safety-alert-medical-beds-trolleys-bed-rails-bed-grab-handles-and-lateral-turning-devices-risk-of-death-from-entrapment-or-falls-natpsa-slash-2023-slash-010-slash-mhra

Scan QR code for the full MHRA Alert

Types of bed grab handles:

MHRA fitting guidance:

This piece of equipment will be fitted and set up by an AHP professional / Millbrook service driver.

• The gap between the handle and headboard should be less than 6cm or more than 32cm.
   
• The gap between the handle and outside edge of the mattress should be less than 12cm.
   
• Ensure the mattress is heavy enough to hold the handle in place.
   
• Ensure the rail is positioned back in the same place if it is moved (e.g. after linen changes or movement for care needs).

Why have you been given a bed grab handle

• To assist with turning, repositioning or sitting up in bed.
   
• To assist into standing from the side of the bed.
   
• For you to hold for support when lifting your legs on and off the bed.
   
• To provide stability when sitting on the edge of the bed.

What it is not for:

• To stop you from falling from the bed.
   
• For use as an alternative to full length rails.
   
• For use by other people who have not been assessed.

Please contact the Community Equipment Service if:

• Your bed grab handle is worn or faulty.
   
• You are having difficulty positioning the grab handle correctly following a change in bed, mattress or linen.
   
• The equipment is no longer needed.

Telephone Millbrook Healthcare on 0330 124 1247

Please contact your health or social care professional (if known) if:

• Your medical condition or function changes such that you are less mobile when getting in and out of bed or you are spending more time in bed.
   
• You change your bed or mattress.
   
• The handle no longer meets your needs.
   
• Your weight changes significantly.

Hospital Therapist contact details:

If you do not know who to contact, please contact: Social Services 0300 200 1005