{"id":1632,"date":"2024-09-26T18:29:52","date_gmt":"2024-09-26T22:29:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/hcalabtheoryandpractice\/chapter\/bedmaking-procedures-2\/"},"modified":"2024-10-01T16:28:34","modified_gmt":"2024-10-01T20:28:34","slug":"bedmaking-procedures","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/hcalabtheoryandpractice\/chapter\/bedmaking-procedures\/","title":{"raw":"5.3 Bedmaking Procedures","rendered":"5.3 Bedmaking Procedures"},"content":{"raw":"

Making an Unoccupied Bed<\/h1>\r\nWhile making a bed may seem like a simple task, in health care settings there specific steps and reasoning for doing so. In this unit you will review these steps for making both an unoccupied and occupied bed.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Table 5.3.1 Procedure: Making an Unoccupied Bed<\/strong><\/caption>\r\n
STEP<\/th>\r\nACTION<\/th>\r\nREASON\/CONSIDERATIONS<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n
1.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Wash and dry your hands.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Apply gloves if linens are soiled with blood or body fluids.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Following routine practices prevents the spread of pathogens.\r\n\r\n <\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
2.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Assemble equipment and supplies, such as clean linens and pillows.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Check the care plan to see what the bed make-up requirements are for the client.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Remember to carry linens away from your body.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Promotes organization and efficiency.\r\nCarrying linens away from yourself prevents the bacteria on your clothes from getting on the clean linens.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
3.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Assemble supplies in the order they will be used: bottom or [pb_glossary id=\"546\"]fitted sheet[\/pb_glossary], [pb_glossary id=\"1025\"]slider sheets[\/pb_glossary], [pb_glossary id=\"557\"]soaker pad[\/pb_glossary], top or [pb_glossary id=\"545\"]flat sheet[\/pb_glossary], blanket, bedspread, and pillowcases.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Turn the pile of linens upside down and place on a clean surface within your reach.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
\u00a0Promotes organization and efficiency.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
4.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Raise the bed to waist level.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Work on one side of the bed at a time.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Lower the bed rails on the side you are working.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Move to the other side of the bed as needed.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Follows principles of body mechanics and reduces the risk of musculoskeletal injury. Completing one side of the bed first promotes efficiency.\r\n\r\n <\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
5.<\/th>\r\nRemove and fold any bedding to be reused (such as blankets, comforters, or quilts) and place them on a clean surface.<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
6.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Remove soiled linens and place in the appropriate receptacle (e.g., hamper).<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Roll soiled linens away from you inside out. Discard in the appropriate container.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Decreases spread of pathogens. Do not shake linens, as this will release microorganisms into the air.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
7.<\/th>\r\nDiscard gloves and wash your hands.<\/td>\r\nFollows routine practices.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
8.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Place the bottom or fitted sheet in the middle of the bed lengthwise.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • The fold\/crease should be in the centre of the bed.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Ensures even placement of bottom sheet.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
9.<\/th>\r\nUnfold half of the sheet on the side you are working, and tuck the corners under the mattress.<\/td>\r\nCompleting one side of the bed first promotes efficiency.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
10.<\/th>\r\n[pb_glossary id=\"547\"]Fanfold[\/pb_glossary] (accordion style) the other half of the sheet and leave in the centre of the bed.<\/td>\r\n\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1624\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"300\"]\"\" Figure 5.3.1<\/strong> Fanfolded sheets (bottom sheet, slider sheet, and soaker pad)[\/caption]<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
11.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Place the slider sheet across the bed.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Fanfold it to the other side of the bed. The top edge will lay just below the pillow.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
12.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Place the soaker pad in the centre of the bed.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Open it on the side you are working.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Fanfold it to the other side of the bed.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
13.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Place top sheet in centre of the bed lengthwise.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Fanfold it to the other side of the bed.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
14.<\/th>\r\nGo to the opposite side of the bed.<\/td>\r\nCompleting one side of the bed first promotes efficiency.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
15.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Repeat steps 8\u201311, opening the fitted sheet and tucking it under the edges of the bed.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Unfold the remaining half of the top sheet and bed pad.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
16.<\/th>\r\nAdd blankets and bedspreads.<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
17.<\/th>\r\n[pb_glossary id=\"548\"]Mitre[\/pb_glossary] corners of the bedding\r\n(See Table 5.3.2 procedure: How to Mitre a Corner, below.)<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
18.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Bring the top sheet and blankets down over the bedspread, forming a cuff.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Smooth out any wrinkles.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
19.<\/th>\r\nRemove the soiled pillowcase by turning it down and placing it inside out.<\/td>\r\nThis step reduces spread of pathogens<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
20.<\/th>\r\nPutting a Pillowcase on a Pillow<\/strong>\r\n\r\nMethod 1: Grasp the pillow in one hand and fold it in half so that it makes a V shape. Guide the pillow into the open end of the pillowcase, which is in your other hand. Smooth out the pillow inside the case.\r\n\r\nMethod 2: Grasp the end of a pillowcase at the centre of bottom seams. With your other hand, gather up the pillowcase so it is covering your hand. Grasp the pillow with the hand that is covered by the pillowcase. Pull the pillowcase down and over the pillow.<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
21.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Lower the bed to its lowest height.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Follow the care plan for bed rails.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Reduces risk of injury to the client.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
22.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Remove and dispose of your gloves if used.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Wash and dry your hands.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Following routine practices reduces spread of pathogens.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
23.<\/th>\r\nDocument completion of task if required.<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n
\r\n

Watch this video for a more complete visual representation of how to make an unoccupied bed:<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n

\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/media.bccampus.ca\/id\/0_jr3cz658?width=608&height=402&playerId=23449753\r\n\r\nHow To Make An Unoccupied Bed<\/em><\/a> by Kim Morris, RN, BN, MN; Tracy Christianson, RN, BSN, MN, DHEd, CCNE; Lynnette Fleury, RN, BSN, MSN; and Leon Racicot is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 licence<\/a>.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n

Mitre the Corners<\/h1>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Table 5.3.2 Procedure: How to Mitre a Corner<\/caption>\r\n
STEP<\/th>\r\nACTION<\/th>\r\nEXAMPLE<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n
1.<\/th>\r\nBegin with the bedspread and sheet tucked at the end of the bed, and the remainder hanging over the side of the bed.<\/td>\r\n\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1625\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"300\"]\"\" Figure 5.3.2<\/strong> Step 1[\/caption]<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
2.<\/th>\r\nGrasp the edge of the bedding about 45 cm (18 inches) away from the end of the bed.<\/td>\r\n\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1626\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"300\"]\"\" Figure 5.3.3<\/strong> Step 2[\/caption]<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
3.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Bring it up to the top of the bed.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Hold it taut (tight) at about a 45-degree angle.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • It will have a triangular shape.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1627\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"300\"]\"\" Figure 5.3.4<\/strong> Step 3[\/caption]<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
4.<\/th>\r\nLay the triangular shape against the side of the mattress.<\/td>\r\n\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_1628\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"300\"]\"\" Figure 5.3.5<\/strong> Step 4[\/caption]<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
5.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Tuck the bedspread and sheet under the mattress.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • You should end up with a visible diagonal fold in the bedspread.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_146\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"300\"]\"\" Figure 5.3.6<\/strong> Step 5[\/caption]<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n

Making an Occupied Bed<\/h1>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Table 5.3.3 Procedure: Making an Occupied Bed\u00a0<\/caption>\r\n
STEP<\/th>\r\nACTION<\/th>\r\nREASON\/CONSIDERATIONS<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n
1.<\/th>\r\nIdentify your client and explain the procedure.<\/td>\r\nPromotes safety. Communicating with the client promotes co-operation.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
2.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Wash and dry your hands.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Don gloves if linens are soiled with blood or body fluids.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Following routine practices prevents the spread of pathogens.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
3.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Assemble equipment and supplies, such as clean linens and pillows.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Assemble supplies in the order they will be used: bottom or fitted sheet, slider sheets, soaker pad, top or flat sheet, then blanket, bedspread, and pillowcases.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Turn the pile of linens upside down and place on a clean surface within your reach.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Remember to carry linens away from your body.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Promotes organization and efficiency.\r\n\r\nCarrying linens away from your body prevents the bacteria on your clothes from getting on the clean linens.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
4.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Raise the bed to waist level. Remember to use good body mechanics and never lean over the bed.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Work on one side of the bed at a time.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Move to the other side of the bed as needed.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Lower the bed rails on the side you are working.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Follows principles of body mechanics and reduces the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Completing one side of the bed first promotes efficiency.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
5.<\/th>\r\nRemove and fold any bedding to be reused (such as blankets, comforters or quilts) and place them on a clean surface.<\/td>\r\nDo not shake linens as this will release microorganisms the air.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
6.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Loosen bedding on the side you are working.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Loosen top sheet at foot and bottom or flat sheet at the foot and top of the bed.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Leave top sheet or a bath blanket on the client.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Leaving the client covered provides warmth and privacy.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
7.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Raise the bed to waist level. Never lean over the bed.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Work on one side of the bed at a time.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Move to the other side of the bed as needed.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Lower the bed rails on the side you are working.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Follows principles of body mechanics and reduces risk of musculoskeletal injuries.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
8.<\/th>\r\nLeave the pillow under client\u2019s head for comfort.<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
9.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Turn the client to the opposite side from which you are working.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Ensure the bed rail on the opposite side is raised.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Position for safety and comfort.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
10.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Roll the soiled bottom sheet and bed pad toward the client.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • The soiled sheet and mattress pad should be rolled inward, so the soiled part does not touch the client.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"300\"]\"\" Figure 5.3.7<\/strong> Roll soiled sheets toward the client[\/caption]\r\n\r\nPrevents spread of pathogens.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
11.<\/th>\r\nGently tuck the soiled sheets under the client.<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
12.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Position the clean bottom or fitted sheet lengthwise along the length of the client.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Tuck the clean bottom sheet next to and under the soiled sheets underneath the client.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Be sure the clean sheet is underneath the soiled sheet.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Tuck the bottom sheet in at the head and foot, under the mattress and smooth out any wrinkles.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
This will ensure the new sheet stays clean, and that it will be easy to move to the other side after you turn the client onto their opposite side. Smoothing out wrinkles reduces skin irritation.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
13.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Open half the slider sheet on your side.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Fanfold (fold it up accordion style) the remaining half.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Tuck this under the client, over the clean sheet but under the soiled sheet.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"300\"]\"\" Figure 5.3.8<\/strong> Fanfolded clean sheets[\/caption]<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
14.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Turn the client to the clean side of the bed. Let them know that they will feel a \u201cbump\u201d as they roll over the linens underneath them.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Position the client for safety and comfort.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • If the bed has rails, ensure the bed rails are positioned up before you move to the opposite side of the bed.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Promotes safety and comfort.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
15.<\/th>\r\nGo to the opposite side of the bed.<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
16.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Loosen the bottom sheet at the head and foot of the bed.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Roll the soiled bottom sheet and bed pad into a ball so that the soiled part of the linen is inside, and away from clean areas.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Place soiled linen in the appropriate receptacle.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Reduces the spread of pathogens.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
17.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Remove your gloves and wash your hands.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • If you move away from the bed, ensure the bed rails are up.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Following routine practices reduces spread of pathogens. A raised bed rail promotes safety.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
18.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Roll the clean bottom sheet, slider sheet, and soaker pad out from under the client.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Tuck in corners and smooth out wrinkles.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Smoothing out wrinkles reduces skin irritation.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
19.<\/th>\r\nRe-position the client back to the centre of the bed.<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
20.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Remove the soiled top sheet and replace with the clean top sheet.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Replace blankets and top bedding over the client.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
21.<\/th>\r\nBring the top sheet and blanket down over the top bedding to form a cuff.<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
22.<\/th>\r\nRemove soiled pillowcases and replace with clean pillowcases, as outlined in the Making an Unoccupied Bed procedure (Table 5.3.1).<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
23.<\/th>\r\nAt the foot of the bed, make a toe pleat by lifting all linens with pinched fingers.<\/td>\r\nThis allows the client to have room to move their feet and prevents deformities of the feet from pressure made by tight linens.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
24.<\/th>\r\nPosition the client for comfort.<\/td>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
25.<\/th>\r\n\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • Lower the bed to its lowest setting.<\/li>\r\n \t
  • Ensure side rails are positioned according to care plan.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n
Ensures safety of client.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
26.<\/th>\r\nRemove gloves, and wash and dry your hands.<\/td>\r\nFollowing routine practices reduces spread of pathogens.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
27.<\/th>\r\nObserve, record, and report any changes in condition or behaviour.<\/td>\r\nCommunication with the health care team is an important aspect of the HCA role.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n
\r\n

Watch the video for a more complete visual representation of how to make an occupied bed:<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n

\r\n\r\nVideo coming soon.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
\r\n

Summary<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n

\r\n\r\nThe simple task of making a well-made bed contributes to a client's well-being. A comfortable and tidy made bed can also prevent future health issues.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
Review Questions<\/header>\r\n
\r\n\r\n[h5p id=\"36\"]\r\n\r\n[h5p id=\"37\"]\r\n\r\n[h5p id=\"38\"]\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n
\r\n
    \r\n \t
  1. A well made bed contributes to the client's comfort and safety.\r\n
      \r\n \t
    1. True<\/li>\r\n \t
    2. False<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t
    3. Standard precautions are not required for bedmaking procedures.\r\n
        \r\n \t
      1. True<\/li>\r\n \t
      2. False<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t
      3. The Fowler's position\r\n
          \r\n \t
        1. has the head of the bed higher than the feet<\/li>\r\n \t
        2. has the feet higher than the client's head<\/li>\r\n \t
        3. is used for sleeping only<\/li>\r\n \t
        4. is used when the client is eating<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n

          Chapter 5 Attributions and References<\/h1>\r\n

          Unit 5.2 Image Attributions<\/h2>\r\n