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Tips for dealing with bed rest

Healthwise
By Sandy Jocoy, RN

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The following tips may be helpful when dealing with long-term bed rest for a high-risk pregnancy:

  • Keep a phone, phone book, note pad, and pen near the bed where you can easily reach them.
  • If you have young children, you may want to restrict them to the room where you are resting. Keep their toys and other needed items (such as a diaper bag or potty chair) close by. Have another family member pack snacks and lunch food in a cooler close to your bed.
  • Ignore the doorbell if you do not have an intercom system that allows you to speak with a visitor who comes to your door.
  • Gently stretch your legs every hour to maintain good blood circulation.
  • Look at this period as an opportunity to do activities that you usually cannot find time for, such as reading, completing craft projects, or writing letters.

Credits

Author Sandy Jocoy, RN
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated November 14, 2008
Last Updated: 11/14/2008