Nursing Component Task
Nursing procedures & clinical learning

General Nursing (RGN)

SIMPLE UNOCCUPIED BED

This is an empty bed prepared with clean linen and covered appropriately so that it is protected from dust and dirt while awaiting admission or use by a patient.

Purpose

  • Facilitate quick admission
  • Provide a clean and comfortable sleeping surface
  • Maintain cleanliness and readiness of the patient unit
  • Promote patient safety and comfort

Indications

  • Preparation of a bed before admission of a patient
  • Preparation of an empty bed after discharge
  • Routine replacement of bed linen when the bed is unoccupied
  • Preparation of a bed for an ambulant patient who is not currently in bed

Equipment

  • A trolley with the following items:
  • Two large cotton sheets (Bed linen)
  • One waterproof draw mackintosh or bed mat if necessary
  • One draw sheet
  • Pillow slips
  • One top sheet
  • Counterpane if necessary

Procedure steps

  • Perform hand hygiene
  • Collect and arrange items on the trolley and send them to the bedside
  • Arrange items in order of use on a chair or bedside/heart table
  • Place the bottom sheet evenly on the bed
  • Pull the sheet tight so that there are no creases
  • Tuck the bottom sheet evenly under the mattress at the top and bottom using mitered or envelope corners
  • Pull and tuck the sheet at the sides to prevent creases
  • Place bed mat or draw mackintosh at the middle portion of the bed
  • Cover the mackintosh or bed mat with the draw sheet and tuck in at the sides
  • Put clean pillowcases on the pillows
  • Place pillows on the bed with open ends away from the entrance
  • Place the top sheet on the bed with the wrong side uppermost
  • Fold over at the bottom and tuck in loosely
  • Place the counterpane loosely over the bed if required
  • Tuck the counterpane at the bottom end using mitered or envelope corners if required
  • Fold the top sheet over the counterpane at the top end according to the required open or closed bed
  • Tuck in the sides under the mattress to prevent creases
  • Ensure the bed is safe, clean and ready for use
  • Remove the trolley and chair/heart table
  • Perform hand hygiene

Precautions

  • Perform hand hygiene before and after bed making
  • Use clean linen and keep it away from contaminated surfaces
  • Do not shake linen because this may disperse microorganisms
  • Keep clean and used linen separate
  • Maintain correct body mechanics while making the bed
  • Ensure the bed is stable and brakes are applied where applicable
  • Keep the working area free from hazards
  • Ensure there are no unnecessary wrinkles that may cause discomfort or pressure injury
  • Follow facility policy for handling and disposal of soiled linen

Educational resource only. Follow current Nursing and Midwifery Council guidance, local institutional protocols, scope of practice, and clinical supervision.

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