Get CMS’s latest guidance on these questions: Are all bedrails considered to be physical restraints? Does CMS expect bed rails to be removed from a bed between residents? Would the steps of assessment, consent, inspect and maintain bed rails apply whenever a bed has rails, or only when those bed rails are actually used? What are some appropriate alternatives to attempt before installing a bedrail? If bed rails are pre-installed on the bed (purchased as one unit or not easily removed), could they be disabled in some way to ensure they are not used for a resident for whom bed rails are not appropriate? Should facilities be cited with noncompliance if bed rails are actually on the bed, even if they are not being used? What is meant by regular inspection of all bed frames, mattresses and bed rails if any, to identify areas of possible entrapment?
