Bedexit

Bedexit refers to patient-safety monitoring systems that detect when a person leaves or attempts to leave a bed. Used in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and increasingly in home care, bedexit systems provide an alert to caregivers to prevent falls and enable timely assistance.

Most bedexit systems use sensors placed on or near the bed. Common types include pressure mats under the patient, bed-occupancy or weight sensors in the mattress or frame, and contact or infrared sensors along the bed edges. When exit is detected, an alarm is delivered to a nurse-call system, a bedside audible alert, or a central monitoring screen. Systems can be wired or wireless and may integrate with electronic health records or facility software.

Benefits include reduced fall risk and improved safety, with greater patient independence when supervision is available. Drawbacks include false alarms, alarm fatigue for staff, privacy concerns, and ongoing maintenance. Effective use requires staff training, clear response protocols, and regular calibration. Regulatory status varies by jurisdiction; bedexit devices are typically regulated as medical devices and must meet safety and performance standards.