Basic Nursing Procedure: Making an Ordinary Occupied Bed

  Purposes To provide comfort for the patient. To maintain cleanliness and prevent infection. To prevent bedsores and skin irritati...

 

Purposes

• To provide comfort for the patient.

• To maintain cleanliness and prevent infection.

• To prevent bedsores and skin irritation.

• To promote good nursing care and patient dignity.

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Articles Required

• Clean bed sheets (bottom and top).

• Draw sheet or mackintosh (if available).

• Pillowcases.

• Blanket (if required).

• Laundry bag/bucket for soiled linen.

• Hand sanitizer or gloves.

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Procedure

1. Preparation

   • Wash hands, explain the procedure to the patient, and ensure privacy (draw curtains/screens).

   • Gather all clean linen and place it on a clean surface.

   • Place soiled linen bag at bedside.

2. Initial Steps

   • Loosen the top bedding and remove extra articles (tray, belongings).

   • Cover the patient with a light blanket for warmth and privacy.

   • Remove soiled top sheet carefully without exposing the patient, leaving the blanket in place.

3. Changing Bottom Sheet (One Side at a Time)

   • Assist patient to turn to one side of the bed.

   • Roll the soiled bottom sheet inward toward the patient’s back.

   • Place the clean bottom sheet on the exposed mattress, tuck in firmly.

   • Place clean draw sheet/mackintosh if needed.

   • Turn the patient gently onto the clean side.

   • Remove the soiled linen completely and pull the clean sheet through. Smooth and tuck under mattress.

4. Changing Top Sheet

   • Place a clean top sheet over the blanket, ask the patient to hold it for security.

   • Remove the old blanket beneath, leaving the clean sheet in place.

   • Spread the blanket neatly, fold top edge over the blanket, and tuck at foot end.

5. Pillows

   • Remove pillowcases one at a time and replace with clean covers.

   • Support patient’s head throughout.

6. Completion

   • Ensure patient comfort (bedside table, call bell within reach).

   • Smooth wrinkles to prevent discomfort and bedsores.

   • Collect soiled linen in the laundry bag—do not shake.

   • Wash hands.

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Points to Remember

• Maintain patient’s privacy and dignity throughout.

• Handle the patient gently to avoid pain or injury.

• Keep the bed wrinkle-free to prevent pressure sores.

• Never place clean linen on the floor.