Hi-tech beds donated to Aras Mhuire

By SIOBHÃÂN HOLLIMAN NINE high-tech beds, which will reduce the risk of patients falling out of bed, have been donated to Tuam â€Ëœs Community Nursing Unit, Aras Mhuire. The highly specialised, ultra-low, electronic beds have been purchased from funding raised and donations received over a two-year period through the Millennium Committee for Aras Mhuire. [private] The beds will be used for high-dependant residents who may be at risk of falling from their beds at any time. The new beds will help eliminate the need to use bed rails, which are now considered to be a restraint and whose use is restricted by a National Restraint Policy. Extra security As an extra security measure, safety mattresses for the floor, which have been specifically designed to prevent injury in the event of a fall from a low-level bed, have also been purchased from funding of approximately €20,000 raised by the Millennium Committee. 'We are delighted that we are finally in a position to spend the money that was raised by the people of Tuam and surrounding areas on these fabulous new high-tech beds. 'We were anxious to put the money to good use and liaised with the Director of Nursing in identifying what equipment was most needed in the unit,' said committee member John Ryan. The new beds will also be of benefit to carers and nurses, as they reduce manual handling, while residents with chest problems and congestion will find life more comfortable as the head of the bed raises up to a sitting position. Likewise, the foot of the bed elevates to facilitate other medical conditions. Four high-risk replacement mattresses that are designed to relieve pressure and friction and prevent pressure ulcers have also been purchased from the funding, along with a lifting pole. Mary Egan, Director of Nursing, Aras Mhuire, says, 'We are delighted to receive these beds and are very thankful to the committee members for supporting us down through the years. I'd also like to thank the community and general public who have supported and donated towards the millennium project. These beds will enhance the quality of life of our elderly residents living in Aras Mhuire, and it is always our ultimate goal to provide the maximum care possible to our residents.' [/private]