Hospital and medical beds are crucial for patient care, providing comfort, safety, and functionality. Here are the key features and specifications to consider:
Types of Hospital Beds
Hospital beds are versatile, adapting to patients’ changing needs. The different types are distinguished by what powers their functions:
- Manual Hospital Beds: Operated by hand cranks to adjust the bed’s height and raise/lower the head and foot sections. These beds require physical effort, affecting usability and patient independence.
- Semi-Electric Hospital Beds: An electric motor adjusts the head and foot parts, while height adjustment is manual.
- Fully-Electric Hospital Beds: Controlled entirely by a pendant or remote, these beds offer full adjustability without manual effort, enhancing ease of use for patients and caregivers.
Key Features
- Adjustable Height: Facilitates patient transfers and caregiver tasks.
- Trendelenburg and Reverse Trendelenburg Positions: Aid in various medical conditions and treatments.
- Side Rails: Provide safety and support, often adjustable and removable.
- Mattress Options: Include foam, air, and gel to prevent pressure ulcers.
- Wheels with Locks: Ensure mobility and stability.
Specifications to Consider
- Weight Capacity: Ranges from standard to bariatric models for heavier patients.
- Dimensions: Standard sizes or customized dimensions based on patient needs.
- Control Systems: Handheld or built-in controls for ease of use.
- Construction Materials: Durable metals or composite materials for longevity.
Standard Hospital Bed Dimensions
The standard dimensions for a hospital bed for home use are 36″ (wide) x 80″ (long). Hospital beds occupy the same space as a regular mattress. To measure a hospital bed’s dimensions, measure the length from the headboard to the footboard and the width from side to side. With rising average BMI, alternative widths are available. When considering hospital bed rentals, check whether the specifications are appropriate for the user.
Difference Between Hospital Beds and Nursing Home Beds
Hospital Beds
Hospital beds are designed for hospital environments, offering full adjustability, including the top and bottom sections. These beds can be adjusted to support a patient’s back and facilitate medical procedures. They typically have adjustable rails to prevent falls and include built-in control panels for staff and patient convenience. Most hospital beds are electric, enhancing their functionality.
Nursing Home Beds/Long Term Care Beds
Nursing home beds are used in long-term care facilities, assisted living, and home care. They come in various sizes, including larger bariatric options, and often feature high/low adjustments to aid patients and staff. Unlike hospital beds, not all nursing home beds come with rails, but they can be customized with various accessories like soft touch rails, overbed tables, and safety locks.
Additional Considerations for Home Use
1. Hospital Bed or Adjustable Bed?
Hospital beds for home use differ from adjustable beds in that a patient or caregiver can raise or lower the height of a hospital bed as well as the position of the mattress. Adjusting the height makes it easier for the patient to get in and out of bed.
2. Larger Patient Beds
Patients may need a larger bed due to their size or condition. Hospital beds come in standard and extra-wide 39″ options. Extensions can increase the length for tall patients.
3. Patient Size and Weight Limits
Check the size and weight limits of your bed before committing to rental or purchase. Patients with a BMI over 45 may need a 39″ model to ensure safety.
4. Mattresses for Hospital Beds
Patients need a special mattress as ordinary mattresses don’t bend and can’t endure the requirements of a hospital bed. Choose a pressure-redistributing mattress that fits the patient’s condition and supports medical equipment.
5. Bed Clothes for Hospital Beds
Properly sized bed linens are important. Ensure sheets are large enough to cover the mattress comfortably and are easy to wash.
Where to Get a Hospital Bed for Home Use
Many medical equipment supply stores rent and sell hospital beds for home use. For short-term use (up to 20 weeks), renting a hospital bed is generally best. For long-term use (over 20 weeks), purchasing may be more cost-effective. Ensure that the supplier disinfects each bed thoroughly between rentals.
Choosing the right bed involves assessing patient needs, healthcare facility requirements, and budget considerations. For a wide range of new, used, and refurbished medical beds, visit Meditree.
