Hospital beds are for use in hospitals and extended care facilities. Their most important feature is the ability to modify the mattress height, pressure, and position so that a patient will be more comfortable.
There are many types of hospital beds, and finding the right one can be challenging, especially if you are looking for one to use at home for a close relative.
This guide will provide you with the information to help you choose the right hospital bed for your needs.
Types of hospital beds
There are several types of hospital beds available if you are using a hospital bed rental service. They come in many different sizes and styles to meet the needs of patients with varying physical conditions. Some common types of hospital beds you may find include the following.
1. Electric hospital beds
An electric hospital bed works with a switch and is mechanisable into different positions. The standard model includes head, back, and leg sections that are all adjustable to create the right position for the patient.
These beds come with multiple safety features such as emergency release cords and side rails that can go from 39.5” to 57.5″ high.
How does it work?
Electric hospital beds are powered by a standard wall outlet and plug into the bedside control unit. This unit has a master switch that controls the bed’s functions, along with indicators for low battery power, system failure, and patient alarms.
Who should use it?
Patients who may not adjust their beds can use electric hospital beds. They are also great for someone with a previous back or neck injury.
2. Manual hospital beds
A manual hospital bed works with a crank located on the side of each bed section, with controls for bed height, elevation, and the Trendelenburg — where you are laid flat on your back on a 15-30-degree incline with the feet elevated above the head — and reverse Trendelenburg tilts.
How does it work?
You need to turn the crank clockwise or anticlockwise to adjust the bed height. To change the elevation or use the Trendelenburg or reverse Trendelenburg tilt, you can pull the crank handle towards the head of the bed and release it to lock it into place.
Who should use it?
Manual hospital beds are perfect for people who do not require support while in bed. They are also great for someone with arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
3. Power-assisted hospital beds
A power-assisted hospital bed has the same basic functions as an electric hospital bed, but requires less effort from the user. The standard model includes head, back, and leg sections that are also flexible to create the right position for the patient.
How does it work?
Power-assisted hospital beds are powered by a rechargeable battery pack that plugs into the bedside control unit. This unit has a master switch that controls the bed’s functions and indicators for low battery power, system failure, and patient alarms.
Who should use it?
These beds are perfect for people who require more support while in bed. They are also great for someone who would have difficulty operating an electric hospital bed because of limited mobility.
4. Folding hospital beds
Folding hospital beds have the same basic functions as standard electric or manual ones but can easily be folded up against a wall when not in use. In addition, these beds are available with various features, including side rails and safety belts.
How does it work?
Folding hospital beds are powered by a standard wall outlet and plug into the bedside control unit. This unit has a master switch that controls the bed’s functions and indicators for low battery power, system failure, and patient alarms.
Who should use it?
Folding hospital beds are perfect for people who require suitable hospital beds but do not have the space for permanent ones. They are also great for individuals who need hospital beds temporarily.
5. Bariatric hospital beds
Bariatric hospital beds are for people who are obese or have a large body frame. These beds can accommodate patients up to 1,000 lbs, and come with various features, including side rails, safety belts, and IV holders.
How does it work?
Bariatric hospital beds are powered by a standard wall outlet and plug into the bedside control unit. This unit has a master switch that controls the bed’s functions and indicators for low battery power, system failure, and patient alarms.
Who should use it?
Bariatric hospital beds are perfect for people who are obese or have a large body frame. They are also great for those who need to rent a hospital bed temporarily.
Bottom line
Hospital beds are an important part of any medical facility. They can help patients adjust to their environment, provide support, and improve comfort. There are a variety of beds available on the market today, each with its own unique set of features. Therefore, it is important to choose the right bed for the individual’s needs to ensure safety and comfort.
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