Use of Cotsides in an Irish Hospital

Cotsides (bedrails) are commonly used in the care of elderly people. There is increasing recognition that they are potentially dangerous and that there is little evidence that they benefit patients. We examined the frequency and determinants of cotside use in a single hospital on a single night. Of 132 patients assessed, 21 (16%) had cotsides raised. Reported indications for cotside use were: prevention of falls (17 patients); use as a mobility aid (2); patient request (2) and family request (1). Cotside use was significantly associated with the presence of agitated confusion or a history of falls while patients admitted to a geriatric ward were significantly less likely to have cotsides used. Use of cotsides in this Irish hospital was twice as common as that reported in British hospitals. Inappropriate use of cotsides is a reason for concern.