Authors

  1. Sharkey, Jeannine E. MSN, RN-C, PNP-BC, CDE
  2. Van Leuven, Karen PhD, FNP-BC
  3. Radovich, Patti MSN, RN, CNS, FCCM

Abstract

There is heightened public awareness of the inherent risks of hospitalization. The hospital bed itself, however, is often not where jeopardy is expected. This article examines 3 chief contributors to hazards associated with hospital bed systems: fire, entrapment, and pressure ulcers. Strategies to assess beds for safety risks are discussed.