What you should know about hospital beds?
A hospital bed becomes necessary if you or a close relative is recovering from an illness or sickness. Hospital beds are available for rent and purchase at medical supply stores. A movable side rail is one of the features of a typical hospital bed and it usually resembles a twin bed produced from heavy metallic components. The positions of the bed can be altered with electricity or hand cracks. Have a chat with a physician to know the best bed for you or your loved one.
Types of hospital beds?
There are different types of hospital beds. However, they are commonly classified as manual or electric hospital beds.
Manual hospital beds: Movement and adjustments are done with hand cranks. If you do not have much strength in your arm or hand, this may be harder. If this is difficult for you to do, you may need to call for help or assistance. The hand cranks are strategically positioned at the bed’s head or foot. The movement of a manual bed is a bit limited and restricted compared to what an electric bed has to offer.
Electric hospital beds: Movement and adjustment can be done through the push of a button. They are quite easy to use. It can be plugged into an electrical outlet because it features a motor and a plug. It also features a hand control pad that closely resembles a television remote control. A lot of people prefer an electric bed because of how easy it is to use. A scale can also be built into an electric hospital bed.
Type of mattress to use
Mattresses that can be used on a hospital bed include foam, gel, and air mattresses. With some mattresses, the pressure on the body is minimized, and this helps to ensure there are no sores. These mattresses are usually available for rent or outright purchase and it should normally come with a waterproof cover.
Tips for safe use of a hospital bed
- The bed wheels should be locked at all times: The wheels should only be unlocked if movement is necessary. The wheels should be locked back as soon as movement is initiated.
- A telephone and bell should be positioned close to the bed: This is important for easy communication.
- The side rails should be kept up all the time: The only time the side rails shouldn’t be up is when you need to get in and out of bed. You should probably place a footstool close to the bed. If you have to get out of bed in the dark, make use of a night light.
- The hand control pad should be within reach for easy adjustment of positions: Practice use of the hand control and also try to change positions with it. Also, make sure the hand control isn’t far from you at all times.
- Obey the instructions provided by the manufacturer for use of the bed: Inspect the bed controls and look out for damages and cracks. If you perceive a burning small or notice an unusual sound, reach out to the manufacturer of the bed. Stop the use of the bed if you sense any issues or fault.
- The bed should move freely when any of its parts are moved: The bed should adjust to any position and extend completely. The hand control or power cords should not be placed through the rails of the bed.