How To Change Sheets
Of course, changing bed linens when nobody is in the bed is easy, but changing an occupied bed is a little different but at the same time almost just as easy if you know-how. One task many caregivers struggle with when it comes to patient care is changing the sheets on an occupied bed. In this short video, we’ll show you how to change the sheets with them still in the bed and give you some tips on how to keep the sheets clean so that they feel refreshed and stay clear of infection.
If the person you’re caring for can’t get out of bed, you may need to change the sheets while they stay there.
In this short video, we’ll show you how to change the sheets with them still in the bed and give you some tips on how to keep the sheets clean so that they feel refreshed and stay clear of infection.
Let’s try it!
This is what you’ll need.
A fresh set of sheets and pillowcases for sure and maybe a clean blanket, if theirs has gotten dirty.
If the person you’re caring for uses a waterproof bed pad, grab one of those too.
Anytime that you could come in contact with blood or bodily fluids, it’s a good idea to wear disposable gloves.
Before we begin, here’s a quick crash course on how to best clean the sheets.
If the sheets have been soiled with blood, try soaking them in cold water to loosen the stain. For stains from other bodily fluids, soak those in warm water. Adding dish soap to that water can help get out tough stains. Using hot water first can set the stain, so try and let the sheets soak in cooler water for a few hours, overnight if you have the time.
You can use hot water to wash the sheets after they soak to help disinfect the fabric. White vinegar in the wash will also help disinfect and helps prevent the fabric from breaking down like bleach can.
Keep dirty sheets separate from other laundry so messes don’t transfer to your clothes.
If the person you’re caring for is in bed all of the time, white cotton sheets are easier to clean and will hold up better to frequent washes. That will save you some money.
Alright, Now we’re ready to get started.
First, have the person you’re caring for on their side facing away from you and take the pillows off of their bed. Roll the soiled under sheet into a log up against their back.
And attach the corners of the clean sheet to their mattress, tuck the free edge of the sheet under the log.
If you’re using a waterproof mattress pad, put it on the bed and tuck about half of it under the log as well. Help them roll towards you after warning them they’ll be rolling over a bump.
On the other side of the bed, remove the soiled linens completely and pull the clean sheet over the rest of the mattress.
Assist them into a comfortable position and finish with a clean top sheet, clean pillowcases and their favourite
blanket.
Changing bed sheets with someone still in the bed is probably a skill you never thought you’d need to learn. If you think about it, it’s pretty amazing what you’ve learned to do!
For more videos that can help you on your caregiving journey, check out our CareChannel.
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Type: Video
Length: Short (< 5 minutes)
Conditions: Other
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