By Aaron Kassraie, AARP November 2024
There were 200,000 more units pulled for safety risk. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued an “urgent warning” about adult portable bed rails, marking the ninth recall of these products since 2021.
On Nov. 14, the CPSC announced the recall of three models of Medical King Bed Assist Rail adult portable bed rails. The company said one 66-year-old man who was living at a residential care facility in South Carolina died in November 2023 after becoming trapped between his mattress and the bed rail.
The recalled products include:
The Bed Assist Rail with Adjustable Heights (models 7007 and 7057) features black or white metal tubing, a rounded black foam grip handle, and a fabric pouch.
The Bed Assist Rail Without Legs (model number 7037) has silver metal tubing, a black foam grip handle, and a black fabric pouch.
These bed rails lack model numbers or brand labels. They were sold between January 2020 and March 2024 on Amazon, Walmart.com, Target Plus, eBay, Kohls.com and MedicalKingUSA.com.
Consumers are advised to stop using the recalled bed rails and contact Medical King for a free repair kit or replacement bed rail, depending on the model. The company may be reached at 888-715-2630 or online at MedicalKingUSA.com/products/recalls.
Bed rail recall history
“Adult portable bed rails are an important device used in assisted or residential care settings and private homes to help prevent falls or injuries for individuals with physical or mental limitations,” the agency said in a statement. “They help individuals in standing or positioning on a bed, to assist mobility or to provide support when sleeping.”
Over the past 3 years, a total of 3 million units have been recalled due to head, neck, and chest injuries that have resulted in 18 fatalities. 92 percent of these deaths involved entrapments, usually of the head or neck, according to CPSC data.
In January 2023, CPSC issued mandatory safety standards to reduce the risk of entrapment and other hazards, effective on any bed rails manufactured after Aug. 23, 2023.
CPSC Bed Rail Safety Checklist
Check for recalls
Visit cpsc.gov/Recalls to ensure your bed rail is not recalled and meets safety standards.
Prevent gaps
Ensure the bed rail is firmly pressed against the mattress side.
Properly install and secure any retention devices such as straps.
Keep at least a 12.5" gap between the bed rail and headboard or footboard.
Keep furniture (nightstands, dressers) away from the bed rail.
Avoid hazardous installations
Do not place multiple bed rails side by side
Ensure compatibility with your bed and mattress.
Use carefully
Follow all instructions and warnings for assembly, installation, and use.
Do not modify or climb over the bed rail.
Monitor users at risk of entrapment, such as those with cognitive impairments.
Consider suitability
Assess whether a portable bed rail is the right support for your needs.
See the CPSC safety alert for a list of the nine most recently recalled portable adult bed rails.
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