Bed mobility is defined as the ability to move the body to change position while in bed. This skill is a specific type of functional mobility, separate from transferring to a chair or walking, focusing exclusively on movements performed on a lying surface. It is a requirement for self-care and independence, often assessed in clinical settings to determine a person’s physical function and support needs. Competency in bed mobility prepares individuals for more complex movements, such as getting out of bed or standing.
Specific Actions that Define Bed Mobility
Bed mobility encompasses a collection of distinct physical actions that allow a person to reposition themselves on a mattress. One of the most common movements is rolling, which involves turning the body from a supine (lying on the back) position to side-lying, or from side-to-side. This action can be made easier by bending one or both knees and reaching across the body with an arm in the direction of the desired turn.
Another action is scooting, which is the lateral movement of the body. Scooting often relies on a movement called bridging, where the individual bends their knees, places their feet flat on the bed, and lifts their hips or pelvis off the surface. Bridging is a preparatory movement that minimizes the friction between the body and the sheet, allowing the person to shift their weight sideways or up toward the head of the bed.
The transition from lying to sitting at the edge of the bed is also a component of bed mobility. This transition typically involves rolling to one side first, then using the arms to push the upper body up while simultaneously swinging the legs off the side of the bed. The coordinated momentum of the legs acting as a pendulum helps bring the torso upright against gravity. These movements are essential for preparing for transfers and other daily activities.
Essential Role in Preventing Complications
Maintaining the ability to move in bed plays a direct role in preventing health complications. The most recognized benefit is the prevention of pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores or pressure ulcers. These injuries result from prolonged, unrelieved pressure on bony prominences, which restricts blood flow to the underlying tissue. Regular repositioning, ideally every two hours, helps to redistribute weight and relieve this sustained pressure, protecting skin integrity.
Movement in bed also helps improve circulation, reducing the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Immobility is a significant risk factor for DVT, which occurs when blood clots form in deep veins. Bed mobility also aids respiratory function by allowing for changes in lung position and promoting deeper breathing, helping prevent conditions like pneumonia. The ability to reposition oneself contributes to personal comfort, dignity, and functional independence.
Classifying Levels of Assistance
In clinical and caregiving settings, a person’s level of bed mobility is assessed and categorized by the amount of assistance they require to perform the movements. The highest level of function is considered independent, meaning the person can safely complete the task without any help. If they require verbal cues, reminders, or help setting up equipment, they are classified as needing supervision or setup assistance.
The categories then progress based on the physical effort provided by the patient versus the caregiver. Minimal assistance is required when the patient performs 75% or more of the effort. Moderate assistance is defined by a 50/50 split, where the patient contributes about half of the work needed. Maximal assistance is required when the patient expends less than 50% of the effort.
A person is considered dependent if they are unable to perform any part of the activity safely or lack the necessary physical or cognitive capability. Assistive devices, such as bed rails, trapeze bars, or specialized sheets, may be used to help facilitate these movements.