FDA webpage offers info on bed rail safety

Silver Spring, MD – The Food and Drug Administration recently created a webpage to help people safely use bed rails.

Risks associated with bed rails include entrapment and falls. Older people with impaired mental states, physical limitations and other medical conditions are especially vulnerable.

FDA and the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend the following to help prevent incidents:

• Check with the manufacturer to make sure the bed rails, mattress and bed frame are compatible.
• Choose the appropriate railing for the age and size of the person using the bed.
• Inspect and check the mattress and rails for areas of possible entrapment. Do not leave a gap wide enough for a person’s head or body between the rail, frame and mattress.
• Check often to see if the rails have shifted or loosened, and adjust accordingly.