Which step is NOT part of safe bed change in occupied bed procedure?

• A. Elevate the head of the bed before starting.
• B. Roll the dirty sheet toward the head of the bed.
• C. Turn the resident onto the clean sheet.
• D. Lower the rails after finishing.

Answer: (B)

In an occupied-bed bed change, the focus is on safety and cleanliness while the resident remains supported and covered. Elevating the head of the bed before starting creates space to work and reduces strain as you reposition. Turning the resident onto a clean sheet is essential so the dirty sheet can be removed without dragging contaminants across the resident, helping prevent infection and discomfort. After you finish, lowering the rails to a safe position returns the bed to normal safety status.

The dirty sheet should be rolled toward the foot of the bed (not toward the head). Rolling toward the head would bring the dirty fabric up toward the resident’s face and upper body, increasing exposure to contaminants and making the process more awkward.