A bedridden patient needs rest . Regardless of the discomfort or location, they deserve a good recovery, free from any external elements that could affect their well-being.
But this isn't always the case. Sick people don't always achieve the peace they need , whether due to the conditions of their surroundings, the dynamics of the people around them, or even the mattress they sleep on.
Therefore, we share some recommendations that can help promote a good quality of life during a patient's rest period.
The worst enemies of rest
It doesn't matter whether the patient's rest is at home or in a health center. There are some issues that may be making it difficult for the patient to rest:
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Environment: excessive lighting, inadequate furniture layout, poor ventilation, noise inside and outside, an uncomfortable mattress...
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Site dynamics: people coming and going, constant interruptions, visits at unscheduled times, lack of privacy…
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Personal issues: uncertainty about the patient's own health, family members' lack of understanding of the treatment needs, concern about the costs of recovery, etc.
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Health complications: decreased physical activity, increased rest days, deterioration of other organs, additional problems, etc.
For a sick person, spending too much time in bed can also cause certain health complications.
Did you know that there are six household accidents that are most common among older adults and can cause serious injuries?
Consequences of prolonged rest
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Cardiovascular system: If a person lies down for a prolonged period, blood circulation may slow. This increases the risk of blood clots forming and blocking veins (thrombophlebitis) or affecting the legs or thighs (deep vein thrombosis). Heart rate may also be altered, or something called "orthostatic hypotension" may occur—a dizziness or even fainting that occurs when the body changes position, from lying down to sitting or standing up.
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Musculoskeletal system: Being bedridden can cause a person to lose muscle mass, which can affect their muscles, bones, and joints. This can lead to joint pain, fractures, osteoporosis, and even bowel control problems.
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Digestive system: Loss of appetite can increase the risk of malnutrition, as well as constipation and gastric reflux.
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Integumentary system (skin): Prolonged time between the body and the mattress can cause pressure ulcers on the skin (hence the importance of changing the patient's position).
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Nervous system: Clearly, inactivity can lead to isolation, which can cause depression and anxiety. It can also lead to confusion, loss of attention, impaired balance, and impaired cognitive development.
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Respiratory system: There may be an increased risk of infections (such as pneumonia) because pulmonary ventilation is impaired, which affects the retention of secretions.
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Urogenital system: Spending long periods in bed can affect bowel movements, which can lead to urinary tract infections, kidney stone formation, and even urinary incontinence.
What can be done to promote a patient's rapid recovery?
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Environment: Promote proper lighting and ventilation, both where the patient rests and in common areas, and eliminate all unnecessary lighting and ventilation during rest hours. It is also important to provide an environment that is as noise-free as possible and rearrange furniture according to the patient's needs. A hospital-grade mattress should also be chosen, as its ergonomic design allows for better weight distribution, as well as a washable and waterproof cover.
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Site dynamics: It is recommended to regulate, as much as possible, the entry and exit of people, as well as constant interruptions or visits outside of normal hours, and to invite visiting family members to do so at times when the patient can receive them (sharing their bathing, eating, and rest schedules with them, so they can continue their recovery).
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Personal matters: It's important to give the patient as much confidence as possible and work with their doctor and/or physical therapist to help them maintain a positive attitude. It's also important to inform family members about the demands of their treatment and the importance of allowing them to rest.
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Health complications: Many patients can exercise while confined to bed. With the help of a physical therapist, you can receive assistance with certain mobilization exercises, massages, and body flexes.
Quality rest
A recovered patient is the result of a combination of factors : the medications administered, the patient's attitude toward recovery, and, of course, the rest they have taken.
And to achieve this, the best possible scenario is required : an appropriate location, a noise-free environment, and a comfortable hospital mattress.
If you are interested in knowing which products are ideal for a patient's recovery, click here and discover a complete range.
Whether sick or not, well-being is something we all deserve. Give your patient the best quality of life for a healthy and speedy recovery.
