Bedmaking, Unoccupied
Although considered routine, daily changing and periodic straightening of bed linens promotes patient comfort and prevents skin breakdown. When preceded by hand hygiene, performed using clean technique, and followed by proper handling and disposal of soiled linens, this procedure helps control health care–acquired infections.
Equipment
Two sheets (one fitted, if available) ▪ pillowcase ▪ bedspread ▪ gloves ▪ Optional: bath blanket, laundry bag, linen-saver pads, drawsheet.
Preparation of Equipment
Obtain clean linen, which should be folded in half lengthwise and then folded again. If the linen is folded incorrectly, refold it. The bottom sheet should be folded so the rough side of the hem is facedown when placed on the bed; this helps prevent skin irritation caused by the rough hem edge rubbing against the patient’s heels. The top sheet should be folded similarly, so that the smooth side of the hem is face up when folded over the spread, giving the bed a finished appearance.
Implementation
Confirm the patient’s identity using at least two patient identifiers according to your facility’s policy.4
Tell the patient that you’re going to change his bed. Help him to a chair if necessary.
Move any furniture away from the bed to provide ample working space.
Lower the head of the bed and side rails to make the mattress level and ensure tight-fitting, wrinkle-free linens. Then, raise the bed to a comfortable working height to prevent back strain.
When stripping the bed, watch for any belongings that may have fallen among the linens.
Remove the pillowcase and place it in the laundry bag or in the middle of the bed. Set the pillow aside.
Lift the mattress edge slightly and work around the bed, untucking the linens. If you plan to reuse the top linens, fold the top hem of the spread down to the bottom hem. Then pick up the hemmed corners, fold the spread into quarters, and hang it over the back of the chair. Do the same for the top sheet. Otherwise, carefully remove and place the top linens in the laundry bag or pillowcase. To avoid spreading microorganisms, don’t fan the linens; hold them against your clothing, or place them on the floor.
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