Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. HOW TO USE BED CRADLES Purpose: The bed cradle is a frame made of metal that is used to support the top bed clothes to prevent pressure on an injured area. A heat cradle equipped with electric bulbs is used to provide heat. Equipment: 1. Bed cradle 2. Large sheet 3. Gauze Procedure: 1. Select a cradle of the right size. A small cradle may be used to protect an injured leg or foot; a wider one must be used if both legs or the whole body is to be protected. 2. Place the cradle on the bed so that it encloses the part to be protected. Never place cradle on floor. (If necessary, place paper on floor first). 3. Tie upper end securely to bed springs, to prevent cradle from collapsing. 4. Make the bed as usual, draping the top covers over the cradle. If a large cradle is being used, an extra sheet may be needed to cover the lower part of the cradle and bed. 5. Clean the cradle as for any metal ware. If the cradle has electrical connections, be careful not to get water on the electrical parts. (Never touch dial on heat cradle. Always unplug from socket.) Home Health Agency Nursing Care & Procedures K-54