How often are beds typically changed in long-term care facilities?

In long-term care facilities, beds are typically changed once or twice a week for several reasons. Regular bed changes are essential for maintaining hygiene, comfort, and overall patient well-being. This frequency helps to reduce the risk of infections and ensures that residents are in a clean and safe environment.

Changing bedding once or twice a week strikes a balance between providing adequate cleanliness and being manageable for the nursing staff, given the various tasks they must perform daily. While some facilities may choose to change bedding more frequently for specific residents or in certain situations (like if a resident is incontinent or if there are spills), the standard practice is to do so once or twice a week.

This routine helps ensure that residents receive proper care without overwhelming the staff, contributing to a sustainable workload while prioritizing the residents' health and comfort.