How to use these tools

Bed safety rails and bed grab handles are commonly used within community settings to improve a persons safety and independence. However, there are associated risks with provision, such as entrapment and injury. Completing a risk assessment when prescribing or reviewing this  equipment can help reduce risks and contribute to increased person safety. NHS GGC, GGC wide HSCP's and the MHRA have published compulsory guidance to support risk assessment and clinical reasoning when considering bed safety rails or bed grab handles in community settings.

This Right Decision Service toolkit has been developed to support assessors through the risk‑assessment process, offering tailored advice and prompts to aid decision-making. It does not replace the requirement to complete the NHS GGC & HSCP risk‑assessment templates but serves as an additional tool. The toolkit is designed for use by all staff who assess for the prescription of this equipment and can be used within the assessment environment, offering real‑time decision support.

The Tool is based on an algorithm of yes or no answers. As you work through the tool, should any of your answers highlight a potential risk with provision of the rail or grab handle, you will be provided with advice on next steps. If a risk is highlighted at any point the algorithm will end and the advice given to not provide rails.

• Adult bed safety rails
• Children, and adults with atypical anatomy - bed safety rails
• Bed grab handles

No personally identifiable information will be collected when using the tool.

The end result is the advice give.  You will also have a pdf copy of your pathway through the algorithm which you can keep for your records.