What is a patient turning system and how does it work?

For many patients with limited mobility, regular repositioning in bed is vital for both comfort and health. Turning helps prevent pressure ulcers, improves circulation, and supports many in-bed care tasks. But for carers, manually turning a patient can be physically demanding and comes with a high risk of injury. This is where patient turning systems come in.

What is a patient turning system?

A patient turning system is an electric in-bed solution designed to make repositioning patients safer, easier, and more dignified. These systems use powered side rails and sliding sheets or turning platforms to gently move or turn a person in bed, reducing the need for manual handling.

They are particularly useful in:

• Client’s homes and care homes where frequent repositioning is required
• Community and home care settings where carer availability is limited
• Long-term care situations where comfort and pressure care are ongoing priorities

How does a patient turning system work?

Patient turning systems typically consist of a motorised frame and a set of turning and slide sheets. They attach to a client’s bed, replacing the existing side rails with the turning system.

With the touch of a button, the system can:

• Move the patient laterally on the bed
• Turn the patient onto their side for pressure relief
• Assist with repositioning the patient up the bed
• Support carers with tasks such as changing bedding, personal care, and medical procedures

The key benefit is that turning is achieved smoothly and safely, with minimal physical strain on the caregiver and maximum comfort for the patient.

What patient turning systems are available?

TurnAid

The TurnAid is a motorised in-bed system that makes lateral turning and repositioning significantly easier. Its design integrates a moving sheet system that gently shifts the patient from side to side. This means carers can complete tasks like pressure relief, washing, or applying dressings with far less effort.

The TurnAid has an intuitive design and features a unique foot control option.

Vendlet

The Vendlet system works very similarly, using motorised side rails and specially designed sheets to reposition and turn patients smoothly.

Its side rails also raise and lower electronically to eliminate virtually all manual handling required. 

Try the TurnAid or Vendlet with Felgains

At Felgains, we offer both the TurnAid and Vendlet patient turning systems. To help you find the right solution, we provide a free 2-week trial or assessment so you can see the difference for yourself with your clients. 

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