What To Know Before Buying A Hospital Bed

Choosing the right hospital bed is important whether you're currently using one or considering your options. Over time, as medical requirements change, you might find yourself needing to purchase upgrades for your bed frame and mattress or add accessories that can help in maintaining hygiene, safety, mobility, and comfort.

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Taking the time to assess the individual’s needs before purchasing hospital bed equipment is essential. Consider what safety features are necessary. Will side rails be needed to keep a patient secure at night, or could they pose a risk for injury? Alternatively, would a trapeze bar to assist with mobility be a better option? Also, determine if you require a bed and mattress that can be adjusted remotely to lower to the ground or tilt. So many aspects need careful consideration.

Your Hospital Bed or Mattress May Not Be Compatible With Certain Equipment

Not all mattresses work uniformly with hospital beds. If you've selected a specific hospital bed frame that needs to tilt or bend, you'll have to get a compatible mattress designed to fulfill those functions. For instance, a hospital bed that performs essential tilts should not be paired with a traditional mattress, as this setup risk damaging either the mattress or harming the user.

For individuals with higher body weight, it might be necessary to opt for a specialized bariatric bed that supports weights exceeding 250 pounds. Even with a quality bariatric mattress, securing a bariatric hospital bed frame will be crucial for comfort and safety.

Moreover, some accessories may not work with every hospital bed due to differences in design and size. Ensure any mobility aids or grip rails you're considering are suitable for installation on your selected hospital bed.

Proper research is vital for confirming that all chosen equipment functions as needed.

Hospital Bed Mattresses Have Features That May Reduce the Need for Accessories

Before spending significantly on hospital bed accessories, consider investing in a mattress with built-in features that may negate the need for additional items. Hospital bed mattresses are frequently equipped with characteristics that eliminate the necessity for various accessories. For instance, a bed mattress that includes advanced foam can do without certain covers. Similarly, a mattress with low air loss or alternating pressure capabilities can remove the need for separate toppers.

If getting in and out of bed presents challenges, it may be strategic to get a hospital bed that can lower to the ground via remote control instead of a standard mattress and step stool, enhancing safety.

For those with limited hand function, some hospital beds integrate with voice-activated systems such as Google Home and Amazon Echo. Additionally, manufacturers have begun creating home hospital beds with designs that hide mechanisms, reducing the necessity for decorative items that would make the bed blend better with your home decor.

Ensure Adequate Space for Hospital Bed Equipment

Much like regular beds, hospital beds require considerable room. They might need extra space, especially if you intend to add functionalities that allow elevation or tilting. Planning ahead is vital!

Using a hospital bed in a confined space could lead to mobility difficulties or even severe injuries. Regardless of the equipment you choose, make sure it doesn’t obstruct exits, create tripping hazards, or complicate medical treatments.

Take into account not just current medical needs but also anticipate future requirements. If you or your loved one may face mobility challenges, investing in beds with grip rails or trapeze bars could be worthwhile. If such features are not currently needed, verifying that planned purchases will fit adequately in intended spaces is advisable. Measure the room carefully before finalizing any equipment selection.

Prior to making any purchases, consulting your doctor about the medical status of the person who needs the equipment might provide valuable insights into what equipment could be of assistance.

Some Hospital Bed Accessories Simplify Cleaning and Maintaining the Mattress

Owning a hospital bed necessitates diligent cleaning and maintenance, which can also prove more efficient through the use of certain accessories. Regular care goes a long way in preventing complications associated with hospital bed hygiene.

Using mattress covers and toppers makes cleaning the mattress much simpler as they effectively absorb bodily materials and help avoid contamination, thus preventing odors and promoting a healthier sleeping environment. Over-bed trays can also help manage meals in bed, reducing mess.

Patient lifting aids can facilitate cleaning and bathing bedridden individuals without the added challenge of soiling or soaking their mattresses. Devices like gait belts can help caregivers safely reposition patients to facilitate maintenance tasks.

Installation of Hospital Bed Equipment Can Be Physically Demanding

While the goal of installing a hospital bed is to make everything easier for users and caregivers alike, the process itself can sometimes be more challenging than anticipated.

If you opt to manage the installation yourself, don't hesitate to reach out to your vendor beforehand with questions to guarantee you are prepared when equipment arrives.

Remember, maintenance doesn't stop post-installation. Regular upkeep is crucial for the safety and efficacy of hospital bed equipment.

Hiring professional assistance might be wise. Enquire with your vendor about available installation services. Though it might incur additional costs, it could save time, reduce stress, and possibly prevent injuries.

Hospital Bed vs. Adjustable Bed: Understanding the Differences

Hospital and adjustable beds both provide head and foot angle adjustments for those needing position changes due to various reasons. Nonetheless, a stark difference exists: hospital beds are tailored for individuals in need of ongoing medical care, while adjustable beds are centered around comfort.

Height Adjustability

Hospital beds typically offer vertical adjustments, allowing caregivers to modify bed height for both ergonomic efficiency and patient safety, reducing fall risks. Adjustable beds, in contrast, may not have this function.

Size

Most hospital beds come in an extra-long twin size, designed for individual patients. Adjustable beds, however, offer diverse configurations ranging from twin to king sizes.

A note about bed linen: Special sheets are necessary for hospital beds, whereas adjustable beds usually fit standard household linen sizes.

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Portability

Often equipped with wheels for easy movement, hospital beds can be relocated smoothly, accommodating various home arrangements. Adjustable beds are designed as static furnishings and aren’t meant to be moved frequently.

Features Comparison

Hospital beds serve specific medical purposes and often include: handsets, safety rails, removable footboards, and easy-to-clean surfaces. Adjustable beds may include a range of luxurious features, such as massage functions, Wi-Fi control, and customizable presets.

Power Source

Both bed types require electricity but may differ in power options including manual, semi-electric, and full-electric variations.

Aesthetics

Functionality is prioritized in hospital bed design with minimalistic features, while adjustable beds often flaunt a greater array of colors and textures to blend with home decor.

Legal Oversight

Hospital beds are categorized as medical devices that comply with strict safety testing standards as established by the FDA, whereas adjustable beds have lesser regulatory scrutiny.

Cost

Cost comparisons reveal that while their basic models may be similarly priced, the features of full-electric adjustable beds often inflate prices beyond those of standard hospital beds.

If you're in need of a bed temporarily, renting may prove more economical, yet if a long-term solution is necessary, purchasing could be the wiser financial choice. For instance, our mobility equipment store in Denver offers credit towards future purchases from rentals.

The Conclusion

After weighing the unique features of both bed types, hospital beds are tailored for patients with medical challenges, while adjustable beds cater more to comfort and convenience for healthy individuals.

Should you find yourself undecided or only in need of a temporary solution, rental options for hospital beds can provide flexibility. If you find the hospital bed meets your long-term needs, purchasing is always an option down the line.

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