Bed rails, also known as bedside rails, are safety devices attached to the sides of a bed. They help prevent falls during sleep and offer assistance when getting in or out of bed.
Bed rails are available in many different styles and designs, while most of these can be categorized into two main types: Portable and hospital bed rails.
In this article, we’ll discuss the two main types of bed rails and the key differences between them to help you make an informed decision about which one to buy.
Portable bed rails (for home)
Portable bed rails are lightweight, adjustable, and removable bedside rails designed to prevent falls and assist with mobility. These rails are intended for consumer use and can be easily attached to most standard bed frames without complex installation.
Portable bed rails pros
- Lightweight and Adjustable: Portable bed rails are easy to handle. They feature adjustable height settings to accommodate different mattress thicknesses and user needs.
- Easy Installation and Removal: No tools are typically required. These rails allow quick setup or disassembly, making them ideal for home use or travel.
- Secure Attachment: Most models come with safety straps or anchors that ensure a stable fit to the bed.
- Comfortable Design: Many options include padded handles or non-slip grips for added comfort and support when getting in and out of bed.
- Travel-Friendly: Portable bed rails feature compact and foldable designs, making them suitable for temporary use, such as during home stays, vacations, or short-term rehabilitation.
Portable bed rails cons
- May Shift or Loosen Over Time: Some portable rails can loosen with frequent use, especially if the user puts significant weight on them when getting in and out of bed.
- Risk of Entrapment: If not installed and used correctly, there is a small risk of limb or head entrapment, particularly in the elderly with limited mobility.
- Limited Weight Capacity: Many portable rails have a weight limit, which may not support heavier users or those who rely heavily on the rail for lifting themselves.
Hospital bed rails (for clinic)
Hospital bed rails are commonly used in hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare settings. They are also compatible with many adjustable beds. These rails mostly come in a fixed design, but they also have adjustable, foldable, and other safety features like portable bed rails.
Hospital bed rails pros
- Fixed and Secure Attachment: Hospital bed rails are securely mounted to the bed frame. This fixed design ensures maximum stability and support for transfers or repositioning on the bed. As these rails are fixed with the bed frame, they reduce the risk of shifting or loosening over time.
- Adjustable Features: Most hospital bed rails have adjustable features; their height and length can be raised or lowered, folded down, or partially lowered. This allows users to customize the setup based on their needs.
- High Weight Capacity: Hospital bed rails are designed to support higher weight loads. This makes them suitable for those who put more pressure on the rail for support.
- Enhanced Safety: Hospital bed rails provide the highest level of safety and protection, with high-quality materials, a fixed design, and an increased weight capacity.
Hospital bed rails cons
- Complex Installation: Unlike portable bed rails, hospital bed rails often require professional installation. This can make the setup more time-consuming and less flexible for home use or temporary needs.
- Risk of Entrapment: If not properly installed or used, hospital bed rails can pose a risk of entrapment. Body parts such as arms, legs, or even the head can become trapped between the rail and mattress, which can lead to injury.
- Higher Cost: Hospital bed rails are typically more expensive due to their durable construction, safety features, and compatibility with medical beds. This makes them less accessible for consumers looking for affordable or short-term solutions.
Different types of bed rails
1. Swing down bed rails
They are also known as fold-down bed rails, which have a mechanism that allows them to fold down out of the way when not in use. When you use the bed rails, they act as a barrier to help keep you from rolling or falling out. When you don’t need to use them, you can fold them down or out of the way, making it easy to get in and out of bed.
2. Bed rail with legs
Bed rails that can extend down to the floor. They transmit the weight of the user to the floor through the legs when a user stands up and exerts pressure on the rail for stability. These rails also work well as a stable hand that helps users comfortably get in and out of bed.
3. Legless Bed Rails
Legless bed rails that don’t have legs. These rails are usually L-shaped. The longer side of the rail goes under the mattress, and the shorter side works as a side guard. Legless bed rails are typically not attached to the frame of the bed, they are only situated under the bed. So that they can usually work well only on big and heavier mattresses. If they are used on a smaller and lightweight mattress, it is liable to move the mattress, which can be dangerous.
4. Full-Length Bed Rails
Full-length bed rails are long in size and designed to span the entire bed. After installation, they form a protective barrier along the sides, providing complete coverage and safety. This barrier effectively prevents you from rolling out of bed. A full-length bed rail can be especially beneficial if you’re a bedridden patient with limited mobility.
5. Half-Length Bed Rails
Half-length bed rails are extended only partway along the frame length. They provide safety and support that prevents you from falling out of bed. And, their half-length design helps you for easy transfer in and out of the bed. Unlike the full-length rail, the half-length bed rail creates an open environment on the bed, helping to reduce feelings of confinement. If you experience a phobia of enclosed spaces or feelings of restriction, this rail can be an excellent option.
6. Bariatric Bed Rails
Bariatric bed rails are heavy-duty bed rails formulated to assist and protect heavier people while they are in bed. These rails also work as an assistive device that helps heavier people transfer in and out of bed. Unlike bed transfer handles, which are larger and more durable, bed transfer handle rails can be too small for a weighted individual and may not be durable enough to provide support.
7. Bed transfer handle
Transfer handle bed rails are not like other bed rails; they are like assistive devices. They are used to assist anyone who finds it hard to move in and out of bed. If you’re an elderly person with mobility issues and need support while getting in and out of bed, a bed transfer handle can be a great option.
8. Dual Bed Rails
Also known as double-sided bed rails, they are attached on both sides of the bed for ultimate safety. These bed rails effectively help elderly people who need support from both sides of the bed. They also help disabled people and pregnant women to get out of bed. They are available in full and half lengths. You just need to know which one best suits your needs.
9. Travel bed guard
Travel bed rails are portable, lightweight, and ideal for both home use and family trips. Their compact fold makes them easy to pack and carry. Designed with curved support legs, they work on both slatted and solid bed bases.
Portable vs Hospital Bed Rails: which one to choose
Choosing bed rails between portable bed rails and hospital bed rails depends on your intended use and needs. You need to understand why you need bed rails. Portable bed rails are lightweight, adjustable, removable, and designed for home use only. They are also budget-friendly, which ensures you a protective and assistive sleeping environment at a lower cost.
Hospital bed rails, on the other hand, are made from high-quality materials and have a fixed design that can support higher weight limits, providing maximum protection and support. As we know, premium protection comes with a premium price; hospital bed rails can be quite costly. But if you want enhanced safety and assistance during bedtime, this can be a worthwhile investment.
>> How to choose the right bed rails
FAQs
What type of bed rail is best for fall prevention?
Traditional bed rails are the best for fall prevention. They typically feature multiple horizontal bars, which help prevent accidental falls from bed. Traditional bed rails not only can prevent falls, they can also provide handholds for repositioning and transferring in and out of bed.
However, choosing the best bed rails for fall prevention depends on the user’s mobility, strength, and specific needs. Considering those factors can help you find the best one.
Are portable bed rails safe for elderly adults?
Yes, portable bed rails are safe for elderly adults when they are installed and used correctly. If not used correctly, not only portable rails, each and all types of bed rails can be risky for them.
Can I put a hospital bed rail on my regular bed?
Yes, you can put a hospital bed rail on your regular bed if the rail is compatible with your bed. Some hospital bed rails are often designed for both hospital beds and standard beds. So, if you find a rail that supports a regular bed, you can definitely put it on your bed.
What are the risks associated with using bed rails?
Although bed rails are used to enhance safety, they can pose a risk if they are not installed and used correctly. The risks associated with using bed rails are:
- Entrapment: Limbs or the head can become trapped between the rail and the mattress.
- Falls: Trying to climb over the rail may lead to more severe falls.
- Injury: If the rail collapses or isn’t properly secured, it can cause bruising or harm.
- Restriction of movement: For some users, especially those with dementia, bed rails can feel confining and increase agitation or attempts to escape.
How do I install a portable bed rail at home?
Install a portable bed rail by following these 5 simple steps:
- Unpack and inspect the rail and all components.
- Slide the base or support bars under the mattress, ensuring they extend far enough for stability.
- Secure straps or clamps if provided, and attach them tightly around the bed frame or slats.
- Test for stability by applying pressure and ensuring the rail doesn’t move or shift.
- Adjust the height or length if the model is adjustable, to fit the mattress and your needs.