Materials Needed:

• Clean fitted sheet (optional, based on facility protocol)
• Clean flat sheet
• Clean pillowcase(s)
• Blanket (optional, based on patient needs)
• Repositioning sling (compatible with the patient’s lift system)
• Disposable underpad (CHUX) (optional, for additional protection)
• Disposable gloves (if required for infection control)
• Disinfectant wipes or spray (for bed frame cleaning)
• Waterproof mattress pad (if not already on the bed)
• Pillow(s)

Steps:

1. Prepare the Area:
   • Wash your hands thoroughly and put on disposable gloves if required.
   • Ensure the bed is at a comfortable working height and the wheels are locked to prevent movement.
   • Remove any used linens, pillows, or blankets from the bed and place them in a designated laundry bag, following infection control protocols.
2. Clean the Bed Frame and Mattress:
   • Use disinfectant wipes or spray to clean the mattress surface and any exposed bed frame areas, ensuring all surfaces are dry before proceeding.
   • Verify that the mattress is intact and the waterproof pad (if used) is properly positioned.
3. Fit the Bottom Sheet (Optional):
   • If using a fitted sheet (per facility protocol), place a clean fitted sheet over the mattress, securing it tightly around all corners.
   • Ensure the sheet is smooth and free of wrinkles, as these can cause skin irritation for the patient.
   • Addendum: In facilities where only two layers are permitted under the patient (e.g., repositioning sling and CHUX) to maintain skin integrity, the fitted sheet (Step 3) may be omitted. Follow facility-specific protocols for layer management. Always confirm with your facility’s guidelines to ensure compliance with skin integrity and safety standards.
4. Place the Repositioning Sling:
   • Lay the repositioning sling flat on the fitted sheet (or directly on the mattress if no fitted sheet is used), ensuring it is centered and aligned with the patient’s torso and pelvis area (typically from shoulders to upper thighs).
   • Smooth out any wrinkles in the sling to prevent discomfort or pressure points.
   • Ensure the sling’s loops or attachment points are accessible and not tucked under.
   • Secure non-lifting attachment straps to an attachment point at the head of the bed. (Optional)
5. Place the CHUX (Optional):
   • If additional protection is needed for the mattress or to manage incontinence, place a disposable underpad (CHUX) on the repositioning sling, centered in the area where the patient’s hips and pelvis will rest.
   • Ensure the CHUX is flat and smooth to prevent discomfort or skin irritation.
   • Secure it lightly by tucking the edges under the mattress if necessary, but avoid creating bulk that could interfere with the repositioning sling’s functionality.
6. Add the Top Sheet:
   • Place a clean flat sheet over the repositioning sling (and CHUX, if used), aligning the top edge with the head of the bed.
   • Tuck the sheet under the mattress at the foot of the bed, leaving enough slack for patient movement.
   • If the patient is present, ensure the sheet is loosely draped to avoid restricting movement.
7. Add a Blanket (Optional):
   • If a blanket is needed, place it over the flat sheet, aligning it with the top edge of the sheet.
   • Tuck the blanket under the mattress at the foot of the bed, ensuring it is not too tight to allow for patient repositioning.
8. Prepare the Pillow(s):
   • Place clean pillowcase(s) on the pillow(s), ensuring no loose fabric or wrinkles.
   • Position the pillow(s) at the head of the bed, ready for patient use.
9. Final Checks:
   • Verify that the repositioning sling is still correctly positioned and accessible for use with the lift system.
   • Ensure all linens (and CHUX, if used) are smooth and properly tucked to prevent discomfort or skin issues.
   • Adjust the bed height back to the appropriate level for patient care, if necessary.
   • Double-check that the bed wheels are locked.
10. Clean Up:
    • Dispose of gloves (if used) and any cleaning materials according to hospital protocols.
    • Wash your hands thoroughly after completing the task.