The study examined the effects of reducing bed rail use in geriatric wards at a Christchurch hospital. When rails were removed in a controlled program that included close evaluation of residents' needs and education of staff, there was no significant change in the rate of falls. Like other previous studies, the researchers found that when bed-rail use was reduced, there was a reduction in the severity of injuries when falls did occur. They speculate that's because residents aren't climbing over rails. Nursing home operators are aware of the dangers of bed rails, but are in a tough spot, said Larry Yachcik, a vice president at the Health Care Association of Michigan, an industry group.
Families often insist that rails be raised because the resident has a history of falls.
Researchers have found nursing homes face an increased risk of a lawsuit if a resident falls and the rails weren't raised. But a growing number of families are suing homes for using what they consider unsafe bed rails. Bernard Symanski's family is among them. But there's a principle here. And the only way things are going to change is if you do sue.