How to Conduct a Bed Area Safety Check
Published: 02 May 2023
Published: 02 May 2023
Bed safety checks in intensive care units and high-acuity clinical areas may seem like an easy and basic task. However, they are a crucial responsibility, which, if performed incorrectly, may impact patient survival in an emergency situation.
A bed safety check is the first task you should undertake after handover at the commencement of your shift. It involves:
(ARC & NZRC 2014; CICM 2011)
(ARC & NZRC 2014; Butcher et al. 2023; The Royal Hospital for Women 2021)
Note: There may be a nurse allocated to conduct an additional equipment check. A system should be established to ensure that equipment is replaced when necessary and checked for safety (CICM 2011).
A bed safety check should be the first task performed after handover.
Ensure that all equipment is working and ready to use, and familiarise yourself with the locations of additional emergency equipment such as the emergency trolley. If any equipment is not in the bed area, replace it immediately.