The Effects of Bed Confinement on Hospital Patients
The effects of bed confinement on hospital patients range from physical effects such as bedsores and atrophy to emotional responses that can range from depression to fatigue and loneliness. Hospital personnel are directed to watch for signs that significantly impair the patient's ability to heal and to make necessary adjustments.
Sores
Patients that are not turned and cleaned regularly can develop bedsores on areas that do not receive enough air. In places where the body is left without movement, bacteria can form and grow on the skin, resulting in wounds that scab. In addition to carrying germs and infections that can result in further complications, patients with bedsores will be very uncomfortable.
Atrophy
Lack of muscle involvement creates atrophy that requires significant physical therapy to reverse. When muscles are not used for as little as four or five days, they become weak and soft. Patients who fall in hospitals almost always lose their balance because of weakened leg muscles. Even with adjustable beds, patients do not receive exercise that puts stress on the muscles.
Side Effects
While the muscles atrophy, other areas of the body also suffer from lack of motion and blood circulation. The heart does not need to work as hard to keep the patient moving, and thus reduces its output, leaving patients with less lung capacity and a weakened heart. Reduced muscle blood flow also reduces the amount of oxygen that is moved through the rest of the body as well. Loss of muscles mass also decreases bone density, leaving patients more prone to breaks once they become ambulatory.
Infections
Other infections such as urinary tract infections can occur when patients hold their urine because of the distaste they have for using a bedpan. Colon infections are common for the same reason. Patients can face serious complications when they cannot have a bowel movement while lying in a hospital bed. In addition, digestion is interrupted when the body is made to lie in a prone position for a length of time. Side effects include acid reflux, nausea, gas and loss of appetite.
Psychological
The longer patients spend in a hospital bed, the greater chance they have of developing depression. Lack of control over everyday life skills such as bathing, going to the bathroom, eating and moving can play havoc with a person's sense of independence. With little outside stimulation, patients focus on their illness and can become lethargic and hopeless, which can lead to feelings of uselessness and suicide thoughts. Visitors, books, television and crafts can be used to keep patients' minds occupied while they are bedridden.
Tags: Confinement Hospital, Confinement Hospital Patients, Effects Confinement, Effects Confinement Hospital, Hospital Patients
