Bed rails: management and safe use

TRFT Library & Knowledge Service

Sep 5

MHRA - 30th August 2023

The MHRA is the regulator of medicines, medical devices and blood components for transfusion in the UK, a role which includes overseeing investigations into adverse events and promoting the safe use of devices in the UK.

At the MHRA we continue to receive reports of incidents relating to bed rails and associated equipment. These incidents are concerning as some have led to patient harm or death, primarily from entrapment.

This document aims to set out best practice in the provision, prescription, use, maintenance and fitting of bed rails.

This publication has been updated to reflect changes in devices and practices, as well as information gained from the investigation of adverse incidents.

The government has extended acceptance of CE marked devices in Great Britain. For more detail on this see the implementation update on work towards a strengthened future medical devices regime.

Further information - Safe use of bed rails