Caring for bedridden patients may be accomplished more easily with assistive devices and knowledge of how to prevent common maladies associated with long periods of bedrest. First of all, determine the number of caregivers available for daily tasks such as bathing and changing bed linens. If there will be one person performing these chores, then consider assistive devices to facilitate these activities. Such devices may include special supportive pillows, urinals or bedpans, and shower seats. Next, be aware that stiffness and soreness of muscles can be followed by muscular atrophy (ah-truh-fee). One way to help prevent this is through gentle stretches and passive exercises to keep joints limber and muscles supple. Bedsores may form if pressure points, such as elbows, buttocks, and the spine, are in one position for an extended period of time, so frequent position changes can aid in comfort. Changing the linens frequently can help make bedridden patients more comfortable, too, as dry, fresh sheets are less irritating to skin.
