Medline Industries, one of the largest manufacturers of medical equipment in the United States, has issued a recall for 1.5 million bed rails after it was found they could accidentally entrap or suffocate people who used them. At least two deaths have been attributed to the defective bed rails thus far. Anyone who has these rails should cease using them and contact the manufacturer for a refund.

What is Medline Industries?

Medline industries is the largest privately held manufacturer of medical equipment in the United States. Among other things, it produces surgical equipment, wound care supplies, anesthetic supplies, personal protective equipment, nursing supplies, and pharmaceuticals. It employs an estimated 36,000 people and makes more than $21 billion annually.

What Are These Bed Rails?

The Medline Bed Assist Bar adult bed rails (model numbers MDS6800BA and MDS6800BAH) are a type of assistive device intended to prevent unintentional falls. The rails can be installed on a bed, and can both be used to support someone as they get in and out of bed, as well as prevent someone from rolling out of bed onto the floor. For this reason, these sorts of rails are commonly used for the elderly or people with certain chronic disabilities.

Why Were They Recalled?

These bed rails were recalled after it was found they had a defect that could cause people to become accidentally entrapped by the bars, either getting caught within the bars themselves or being trapped between the rails and the mattress. In addition to a risk of injury, someone may also become caught and left unable to breathe, leading to asphyxiation and death. At least two people have died in this way, according to the CPSC.

What Should You Do?

If you have these bed rails, you should stop using them immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund. If you or someone you love is injured as a result of these rails, you should seek immediate medical attention. You should also contact a lawyer with experience handling personal injury cases, who can help you to get justice for the harm you have suffered.

If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you should contact the Tennessee personal injury lawyers at the Keith Williams Law Group. With convenient offices located in Nashville and Lebanon, our lawyers will work with you to create a litigation strategy that protects your legal rights and serves your personal needs. For more information or a free consultation, please contact us at 615-444-2900 or visit our contact page.