Do Hospital Beds Need Special Linen?

Hospital settings often evoke images of sterile environments, state-of-the-art medical equipment, and dedicated healthcare professionals working tirelessly for patient care. 

However, one frequently overlooked aspect of these environments is the type of linen used on hospital beds. While it may seem trivial in comparison to other elements of healthcare, the importance of selecting the right kind of linen cannot be underestimated. 

This blog discusses whether hospital beds need special linens and why.From ensuring patient comfort to maintaining hygiene standards, the choice of bed linen plays a pivotal role in the holistic care environment.

Can Regular Sheets Be Used On A Hospital Bed?

The hospital's rules and the style of hospital beds play a role; therefore, there is no universal solution to this problem. However, hospital bed sheets are typically more comfortable and easier to launder. Therefore, it's recommended to use those.

There is constant skin-to-sheet contact because the patient is confined to bed. The three most common hospital bed sheets are flat, draw, and fitted. The use of flat sheets is highly recommended for sanitary reasons. A fitted bed sheet is tailored to fit over your mattress in a snug and comfortable manner. 

A hospital bed sheet begins with a single strand of yarn crocheted into rows of loops. They may be stretched to fit beds and are generally more elastic and stretchy than woven ones. 

The thread count of a set of sheets is the most essential determinant of its quality. Stretcher sheets are pliable and comfortable to use, making positioning a breeze. A 20 inches wide and 28 inches long mattress will fit in a standard bassinet or crib mattress. A higher thread count in sheets means they can withstand repeated washings without losing shape.

Types of Hospital Bed Linens

When considering hospital bed linens, one often encounters three primary varieties: flat sheets, fitted sheets, and drawsheets. Each of these sheets serves a specific purpose, ensuring both the comfort and safety of patients.

1. Flat Linens

In healthcare facilities, the right dimensions of a flat sheet play a crucial role in a patient's comfort and safety. Sheets that don't fit the bed properly can lead to discomfort, potentially resulting in skin irritation or abrasions. Oversized linens, on the other hand, might result in tripping hazards or unnecessary bulk beneath a patient. Typically, a hospital's flat sheet measures 66-by-104 inches, providing a snug and secure covering that prioritises patient welfare.

2. Fitted Linens

Hospitals often equip beds that are adjustable in nature, making the size of fitted sheets paramount. Such sheets must encapsulate the mattress perfectly. Sheets that are too short may not stretch adequately, whereas overly long sheets can become untidy and hard to manage. Hence, it's vital to measure a bed accurately.

One should not only gauge the mattress's length but also its depth, especially considering the potential for additional layers atop the mattress. Such meticulous measurements ensure the patient's utmost comfort.

3. The Drawsheet

For patients who remain in bed for prolonged periods, repositioning becomes crucial to prevent pressure sores. Healthcare professionals play an essential role in this. However, manually adjusting a patient can be physically taxing for the carer.

Drawsheets, typically positioned in the middle of the bottom sheet, offer a solution. They facilitate the easier and safer turning of patients. Made from materials such as cotton, plastic, or rubber, these smaller sheets generally extend from a patient's upper back down to their lower legs, sometimes serving a restraining function if necessary.

Various Kinds of Bed Linens

Hospital beds, with their unique requirements, necessitate specific types of beddings that go beyond traditional household linens. Below, we delve into various kinds of bed linens tailored for hospital settings, exploring their advantages and specificities.

1. Bariatric Bed Linens

Bariatric hospital beds typically measure between 80 to 84 inches in length, and 42 to 48 inches in width. Given their unique dimensions, it's essential to employ custom-designed bariatric linens. Such sheets ensure a snug fit, optimising patient comfort and enhancing the overall hospital experience.

2. One-Time Use Linens

Infection control remains paramount in hospital settings. One practical approach to minimise germ transmission is by using disposable beddings. Designed for single use, these linens significantly reduce cross-contamination risks by eliminating the need for laundering. Not only does this protect patients, but it also shields carers from potential pollutants. By prioritising disposable linens, healthcare institutions can bolster hygiene, streamline operations, and establish a safer environment for all.

3. Comprehensive Linen Sets

For hospital beds with adjustable features, comprehensive linen sets become invaluable. These sets typically encompass a flat sheet, a fitted variant, a pillowcase, and occasionally an accompanying blanket. This assortment ensures a harmonised and comforting experience for patients, catering to beds of diverse dimensions.

4. Hospital-Quality Blankets

Optimal hospital blankets possess a blend of essential qualities: they are plush, resilient, and maintain their integrity despite frequent laundering. Notably lightweight, they don't burden either patients or their carers. Moreover, these blankets offer commendable thermal properties, ensuring consistent warmth, thereby setting a benchmark in patient care.

5. Impermeable Mattress Protectors

For longevity and hygiene, waterproof mattress covers are indispensable. Crafted from materials such as PEVA/EVA, vinyl/PVC, or Polyurethane, these protectors safeguard the mattress against spills, dust mites, and other contaminants. In doing so, they foster a hygienic sleeping environment and extend the lifespan of the mattress.

Factors To Consider Before Buying

There are a few things to think about before making a final decision on hospital bedding. We have compiled a list of the most important ones below.

Material

Hospital linens can be either woven, in which the yarns are woven in one direction, or knitted, in which the rows of stitches are knitted from a single strand of yarn. In most hospital settings, you will find muslin sheets. Therefore, they have the lowest thread count possible and are the cheapest option. The standard thread count for linen percale is 180, and it can be created from either pure cotton or a cotton/polyester hybrid. 

These sheets are softer and more durable than muslin. Knitted hospital sheets are warmer and thicker than woven ones and stretch. Hospital bed sheets are typically knitted, with jersey knit being the most popular type and interlock knit a close second. 

Knitted ones are warmer, softer, and thicker than woven sheets but tear and snag more easily. Knit diapers are another popular option. The linens used in private hospitals at home can be made from more unusual materials like bamboo. Their higher price tag is justified by their superior breathability, softness, and longevity.

XL Beds

The normal length of a standard bed is 80 inches, whereas the length of a bariatric bed or a king-sized bed could be as much as 84 inches. When shopping for a hospital bed, knowing what size mattress you need is essential for patient comfort.

Bed Bugs

Bed bug mattress covers are distinct from other mattress protectors because they completely encase the mattress in a waterproof barrier. Existing bed bugs cannot leave or reproduce inside this contained area. Therefore, more infestations are prevented. These coverings are typically made from solid fabrics like sturdy cotton, and they have durable seals that further increase their efficacy in protecting against these pests.

Mattress Topper

The mattresses at hospitals aren't exactly known for their plushness. As a result, patients frequently add extra cushions or pillows to improve their comfort while sleeping. Additionally, mattress toppers have a dual purpose: they soften the mattress, making for a more restful night's sleep, and they disperse weight uniformly, protecting the skin from the dangers of pressure points.

Allergy Relief

Sheets and pillows are a haven for dust mites because of the warmth they provide. Hypoallergenic materials, such as organic cotton, wool, or microfiber, can help those allergic to house dust. These alternatives successfully discourage dust mites, making for a cleaner, more peaceful, and ultimately more restful night's sleep.

The Depth Of The Mattress

Most mattresses for hospital beds are between 6 and 9 inches deep, while pressure-relieving mattresses tend to be thicker. The increased height is a significant factor when using a mattress cover or topper. This guarantees the purchase of sheets in the correct sizes, enhancing patients' convenience and ease of use.

The Number Of Threads

A fabric's "thread count" is the number of threads that can be counted in a square inch of the fabric. The quality and softness of your sheets will increase with a higher thread count. The standard thread count for hospital bed linens is 130 (T-130), a cost-effective option. The highest quality hospital bed linens are available in thread counts up to T-180. 

Sheets with a greater thread count have a longer lifespan and are softer to the touch than sheets with a lower thread count. Healthcare facilities can maximise patients' comfort and safety while maintaining a reasonable budget by carefully considering thread count.

Bedsores-Prevention Sheets

Repeated rubbing against a rough surface can develop pressure sores due to a phenomenon called "shearing." Pressure ulcers can be treated by switching to a pressure relief mattress and covering it with breathable sheets made of percale or bamboo. 

Anti-friction panels are included in specialised hospital drapes to prevent skin tears during patient transfer. Patients are less likely to get pressure sores when in the best possible posture, which includes ensuring their sheets are soft and won't bunch up when the bed is raised.

Best Ways To Improve The Comfort Of Hospital Beds

Since comfort is of the utmost importance, it is highly unlikely that anyone would choose to stay and relax on an uncomfortable hospital bed. They can even make recuperating people feel worse, so it's not surprising if they don't improve rapidly. 

Hospitalised patients should rest easier knowing there are measures to improve the quality of their beds. So, without further ado, here are the top recommendations for improving the comfort of hospital beds. 

Use A Higher-Quality Mattress Cover.

A mattress overlay can be added to the hospital mattress for extra comfort for those who are bedridden or recovering. They won't think they're sitting on hard cement with that. As a result, they can maximise their downtime to get healthier and stronger. 

In addition to boosting the comfort of a mattress, the additional support it provides can greatly aid in reducing pressure points, stimulating blood flow, and alleviating back discomfort. 

Add An Overbed Table To The Hospital Bed.

Hospital beds are used not only for patients who cannot get out of bed on their own but also for those who have made a full recovery and are able to eat, read, and work while in bed. However, the bed is only sometimes the most pleasant place to work. An overbed table is a sensible and user-friendly answer to this problem. 

This improvement provides a firm and level surface, making it easier to carry out tasks and activities without strain. The overbed table improves the recovery experience by boosting utility and comfort, meeting the demands of patients while fostering a harmonious balance of practicality and convenience within the healthcare setting.

Make Use Of The Best Hospital Pillows And Blankets Available.

Using high-quality hospital blankets and pillows guarantees one thing. The objective is to make the hospitalised person prefer their hospital bed to their regular bed. It will help them feel less confined while they are in the hospital. Instead, people will get the impression that they were created to get plenty of shut-eye and keep their calm. 

Of course, they need to be extremely clean at all times, and that includes regularly washing and drying their bedding to prevent the spread of germs. The state of their accessories impacts the comfort of hospital beds, and this includes how clean they are. If they take care of their hygiene, they won't have to worry about unpleasant skin irritations or allergies. 

Add Bed Rails. 

Some hospitalised patients can't help but shift around all the time, whether out of boredom, discomfort, or some other uncontrollable factor. Because of this, they pose a danger of injury from falls. That's why having bed rails is a good idea.  

One of the most helpful pieces of advice when looking for bed rails is to look for models that include padded designs. As a result, the bed rail pad alleviates any concerns patients may have about being trapped by the rails of their bed. 

For Effective Incontinence Management, Add Bed Pads.

Bedridden patients with incontinence often have trouble with soiled bed linens and mattress coverings, leading to worries about washing costs. Bed pads are a game-changer for better incontinence management and a solution to these problems. Bed pads add to the patient's comfort and cleanliness by reducing leaking. 

By preventing moisture and odour, they make bedtime more pleasant and allow for a more restful night's sleep, improving overall health and reducing stress caused by incontinence.

Conclusion

In order to keep patients clean and comfortable, hospital beds need special bedding. The choice of bed linen is a key part of the setting for holistic care. There are three main types of hospital bed sheets: flat sheets, fitted sheets, and drawsheets. Most hospital bed sheets are more comfortable and easy to clean. Fitted sheets are made to fit over the mattress in a snug and relaxing way. Flat sheets are recommended for cleanliness. The most important thing that shows how good a set of sheets is is how many threads are in each one.

Flat sheets are very important for the comfort and safety of patients. A size of 66-by-104 inches gives a snug and safe covering. Fitted sheets are necessary for movable beds because they make sure the mattress is completely covered. To make sure a patient is comfortable, it's important to take careful readings. Drawsheets, which are usually in the middle of the bottom sheet, make it easier and safer to turn patients, making sure they are safe and comfortable.

Because hospital beds have special needs, they need special bed covers. Some of the most important are bariatric bed linens, one-time use linens, complete linen sets, hospital-quality blankets, and mattress covers that can't be soaked through. Bariatric beds are between 80 and 84 inches long and 42 to 48 inches wide, so they need custom-made sheets to fit well and make the patient feel more at ease. 

Using disposable bedding cuts down on the spread of germs and the chance of cross-contamination. Complete linen sets make beds with movable features feel more comfortable and put together. Quality blankets for hospitals are soft, durable, and keep their shape even after being washed many times. Mattress protectors made of materials like PEVA/EVA, vinyl/PVC, or Polyurethane that can't be penetrated protect beds from spills, dust mites, and other contaminants. This keeps the mattress clean and extends its life.

When picking hospital bedding, you should think about things like the material, size, and protection from bed bugs. The thread count of standard bed sheets is 180, but knitted sheets are softer and thicker. Different XL beds are different lengths, and bed bug mattress covers make a waterproof shield that keeps bed bugs out.

Mattress toppers are important for making hospitals more comfortable because they soften the mattress and protect the skin from pressure spots. People who are allergic to house dust can get a better night's sleep on hypoallergenic materials like organic cotton, wool, or microfiber. It's important to pay attention to how deep the mattress is. Most beds are between 6 and 9 inches deep. The thread count of a fabric is an important part of figuring out how good and soft the sheets are.

Pressure-prevention sheets can help keep people from getting pressure sores from rubbing against rough surfaces over and over again. Specialised hospital curtains with anti-friction panels can help patients keep a comfortable position and keep their skin from tearing when they are moved from one place to another.

Consider getting a better mattress cover, an overbed table, the best hospital pillows and blankets, bed rails, and bed pads to make hospital beds more comfortable. Patients feel less confined and calmer because of these changes. To stop the spread of germs and make sure medical beds are comfortable, it is important to wash and dry the bedding on a regular basis.

Some people may be more likely to fall, so add bed rails to keep them from getting hurt if they do. If you get padded bed rails, you won't have to worry about getting stuck between them. Bed pads are also helpful for managing incontinence because they keep moisture and smell away. This makes going to bed more comfortable and helps you sleep better.

Content Summary

• Hospital settings often evoke images of sterile environments.
• Dedicated healthcare professionals work tirelessly for patient care.
• The type of linen used on hospital beds is often overlooked.
• The importance of selecting the right linen is crucial in healthcare.
• Bed linen plays a key role in ensuring patient comfort and hygiene.
• The style of hospital beds influences the choice of sheets.
• Hospital bed sheets are usually more comfortable and easier to clean.
• Patients have constant skin-to-sheet contact due to confinement.
• There are three primary types of hospital bed sheets: flat, draw, and fitted.
• Flat sheets are recommended for sanitary reasons.
• A fitted sheet is designed to fit snugly over the mattress.
• Hospital bed sheets often start with a single strand of yarn crocheted into rows.
• The thread count determines the quality of the sheets.
• Higher thread count sheets can withstand repeated washings without deformation.
• Flat linens ensure patient comfort and safety when sized correctly.
• Oversized linens might lead to hazards like tripping.
• Hospitals use adjustable beds, hence, fitted sheets must fit perfectly.
• Measuring a bed's dimensions is critical for patient comfort.
• Drawsheets facilitate easier turning and repositioning of patients.
• Hospital beds require special beddings beyond traditional household linens.
• Bariatric bed linens are tailored for bariatric hospital beds.
• Disposable beddings reduce germ transmission.
• Comprehensive linen sets provide a complete bed solution.
• Hospital-quality blankets are lightweight yet offer consistent warmth.
• Waterproof mattress covers are vital for hygiene and durability.
• Hospital linens can be woven or knitted.
• Muslin sheets have a low thread count and are the cheapest option.
• Knitted sheets are softer and warmer but can tear easily.
• Private hospital linens may use premium materials like bamboo.
• The size of the mattress is essential for determining the right linen.
• Bed bug mattress covers prevent infestations and reproduction of bugs.
• Hospital mattresses can be enhanced with mattress toppers for added comfort.
• Hypoallergenic materials in linens can offer relief from allergies.
• Hospital bed mattresses vary in depth, affecting linen choice.
• A higher thread count indicates better quality and softness in sheets.
• Pressure sores can be mitigated with specialised bed linens.
• Bed comfort is paramount for patient recovery.
• A higher-quality mattress cover can enhance comfort.
• Overbed tables increase the utility of hospital beds.
• High-quality pillows and blankets can elevate patient comfort.
• Hygiene is essential; bed linens must be cleaned regularly.
• Bed rails prevent patients from falling, ensuring safety.
• Padded bed rails can offer added security and comfort.
• Bed pads are essential for managing incontinence effectively.
• Bed pads add to patient comfort and maintain cleanliness.
• Prevention of moisture and odour enhances sleep quality.
• Hospital bedding plays a role in the holistic care environment.
• Fitted sheets need meticulous measurement to ensure patient comfort.
• Hospital beds require specific bedding due to unique requirements.
• Infection control is pivotal, and disposable bedding is a practical solution.