What is a Hospital Bed?
Hospital beds, also known as adjustable beds, are designed to provide increased comfort and support for individuals who have difficulty getting in and out of bed, or who need to change positions frequently due to health concerns. They offer a variety of features that traditional beds do not, making them a valuable tool for those who require additional care at home.
One of the key features of a hospital bed is its adjustability. The head and foot sections of the bed can be raised and lowered electronically or with a hand crank, allowing users to find a comfortable position for sleeping, eating, reading, or watching television. Some beds also offer knee bend functionality, further enhancing comfort and reducing pressure on the legs.
Hospital beds often come with additional safety features, such as side rails that can be raised and lowered to prevent falls. They may also have built-in alarms that can alert caregivers if the patient attempts to get out of bed without assistance. Additionally, some hospital beds are designed to be lower than standard beds, making it easier for users to transfer in and out of bed safely.
Who can benefit from a Hospital Bed?
Hospital beds, also known as adjustable beds, can offer a number of benefits for individuals with various health concerns or conditions. Here are some examples:
- •Mobility issues: Hospital beds can be lowered closer to the ground, minimizing the distance someone with mobility limitations needs to traverse when getting in and out of bed. This can be crucial for minimizing fall risks and maintaining independence.
- •Pressure injuries: Frequent repositioning is crucial to prevent pressure injuries, also known as bed sores. Hospital beds allow for easier adjustments of the head and foot sections, reducing pressure on certain areas of the body.
- •Circulatory problems: Elevating the legs can improve circulation, which can be beneficial for people with conditions like heart failure, peripheral artery disease, and edema (fluid buildup).
- •Respiratory problems: Raising the head of the bed can help ease breathing for individuals with conditions like sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and congestive heart failure.
- •Arthritis and pain management: The ability to adjust the bed to a comfortable position can help alleviate pain and stiffness associated with arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions.
What to look for in a hospital bed for home use
It is important to remember that home hospital beds are not a one-size-fits-all solution and that the user’s unique needs and situation need to be accounted for before making a final purchase. They can be a valuable tool for managing a variety of health conditions, but they are not a substitute for professional medical care. Here are some things to consider when deciding on a hospital bed for home use:
- •Size: Hospital beds come in various sizes, from twin to king-size. Consider the user's size and the available space in the room.
- •Weight capacity: Ensure the bed can accommodate the user's weight and any additional weight, such as medical equipment or a caregiver.
- •Mattress type: Some beds come with a mattress, while others do not. Consider the user's comfort needs and pressure injury risk.
- •Adjustability features: Head and foot adjustments are standard, but some beds also offer knee bend functionality. Consider electric vs. manual adjustability. Electric beds are easier to use, especially for individuals with limited mobility, but they are typically more expensive.
- •Safety features: Side rails can help prevent falls. Alarms can alert caregivers if the user attempts to get out of bed unassisted.
- •Ease of use: Consider the user's ability to operate the bed controls independently.
- •Cost: Hospital beds are highly specialized and can vary greatly in price depending their configuration. We offer multiple financing options to help you get the bed you need at a reasonable price. View our financing options here.
- •Delivery and setup: Hospital beds are typically heavy and some may require professional installation. Consider purchasing an upgraded delivery option.
- •Home modifications: The bed might need wider doorways or a reinforced floor to accommodate its weight and size.
- •Long-term needs: TConsider if the bed will meet the user's needs as their condition changes.
Hospital beds can offer a valuable solution for individuals with various health concerns or mobility limitations. They provide increased comfort, support, independence, and can greatly improve a patient’s quality of life.