How to Choose a Hospital Bed for Home Use in 2023

Updated on December 12, 2022

Hospital beds are an essential piece of medical equipment designed to provide patients with the support they need to heal. They create a safe and comfortable environment for patients to rest, recover, and receive care.

Using hospital beds at home enables patients to care for themselves and receive care from family and friends. They are adjustable, so that patients can recline or sit up as needed. They have side rails to prevent falls and are equipped with other special features to provide support for those who need to be in bed for long periods of time.

This blog post will discuss the factors to consider when choosing a hospital bed for home use. We’ll also show you the differences between hospital beds and regular beds. Read on to learn more.

What’s the Difference Between a Hospital Bed and a Regular Bed?

When it comes to finding the right bed for medical needs at home, there are a few different options available. Regular beds and recliner chairs are both popular choices, but hospital beds offer a number of advantages that make them the best choice for many people.

Hospital beds are typically adjustable, allowing patients to be moved into a variety of positions. This is essential for patients who need to be constantly monitored or who require special care. It also ensures that patients sleep in comfort and helps to prevent bed sores.

Hospital beds often have built-in features that regular beds do not, such as overbed tables, railings, IV poles, traction devices and bed alarm systems. In addition, hospital beds are designed to be easy to clean and disinfect, which is crucial for preventing the spread of infection. 

By using a hospital bed at home, patients who are bedridden or have difficulty moving around  can gain greater independence and improve their quality of life. 

However, there are some drawbacks to using a hospital bed at home. Hospital beds can be expensive and may not fit in with the decor of the home. They are also heavier than regular beds or recliner chairs, making them difficult to move around.

How Do You Know if You Need a Hospital Bed for Home Use?

Typical medical needs that necessitate a hospital bed at home include: Severe joint pain, injuries to the foot or leg, damage to the neurological system, such as the brain or spinal cord, a state of paralysis (quadriplegia or paraplegia), amongst others.

Aside from that, as we become older, getting out of bed may feel like a more difficult task. If you have an elderly relative or loved one who’s losing the ability to move around easily, you might want to look into getting them a hospital bed instead of a regular mattress and bed frame.

Generally, a hospital bed at home is made to accommodate the demands of patients who need to spend a lot of time in bed while recovering. If the patient is able to independently transfer in and out of bed, then a hospital bed may not be necessary. However, if they require assistance to move or are at risk for falling out of bed, a hospital bed can provide added safety and support. 

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Hospital Bed for Home Use?

The following are some considerations to keep in mind when choosing a hospital bed for home use.

Type

One important factor to consider when choosing a hospital bed for home use is the type of bed. There are two main types of hospital beds: manual and electric. Manual beds are operated by a hand crank, while electric beds are powered by batteries or an electrical outlet. Each type of bed has its own advantages and disadvantages. 

Manual beds are generally less expensive than electric beds, but they require more effort to adjust. Electric beds are more expensive, but they can be easier to adjust and often offer more features, such as electronic controls and massage functions.

Size

Make sure to measure the available space in your room and compare it to the dimensions of the bed. A standard hospital bed is 36 inches wide, but some models can be as wide as 42 inches. If your bedroom is on the smaller side, you might want to stick with a 36-inch bed. 

Also, consider the length of the bed. Standard hospital beds are 80 inches long, but some extended length models can be up to 84 inches long. If you’re tall, you might prefer an extra-long bed so that your feet don’t hang off the end. 

Ease of Use

Another important factor to consider when purchasing a hospital bed for home use is ease of use. You want to make sure that the bed will be easy for you or your loved one to use. 

For example, you will want to make sure that the bed can be easily adjusted. You will also want to make sure that the bed comes with a remote control so that you can easily adjust the settings. Also, be sure that the bed has wheels as it helps if you need to move the bed around.

Features

Most hospital beds have a variety of features that can make them more comfortable and convenient for both patients and caregivers. Common features include, built-in storage compartments for holding bed linens and other supplies, as well as rails that can be used to help the patient get in and out of bed. 

In addition, make sure you choose a bed that has proper positioning feature allowing the patient and caregiver the ability to adjust the head, foot, and height of the bed. This is important because it allows the user to be comfortable and also helps to prevent bedsores.

Support/After-sales Service

Customer support is a critical factor to consider when purchasing a hospital bed for home use. Just as you would with any other major purchase, it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re buying from a reputable company. 

Read online reviews, ask for recommendations, take the time to call customer service and ask questions about the product and the company’s policies. That way, you can be confident you’ll have the support you need after your purchase.

How Do You Set Up and Use a Hospital Bed for Home Use Safely and Effectively?

Setting up and using a hospital bed properly is essential for ensuring a comfortable and safe recovery. To set up a hospital bed, start by placing it on a level surface in the room where it will be used. If the bed will be shared, make sure there is enough space for both people to sleep comfortably. 

Next, unfold the bedrails and attach them to the side of the bed. Once the rails are in place, raise the head of the bed to around 30 degrees using the hand controls or crank. If necessary, adjust the height of the bed so that it is easy for you or your loved one to get in and out of. Finally, fluff up pillows and add blankets as needed. 

You should always keep the side rails raised when someone is sleeping in the bed. This will help prevent accidental falls. When getting in or out of the bed, use caution and move slowly to avoid injury. 

Be sure to adjust the head section of the bed as needed throughout the day to ensure comfort and prevent stiffness. With proper set-up and care, a hospital bed can provide a safe and comfortable environment for healing at home.

Conclusion

Hospital beds are specifically designed for hospitalized patients or those who require medical care at home. They typically have many features that regular beds do not, allowing medical staff to better position patients for examinations and procedures, while also preventing bedsores.

Whether you or a loved one are recovering from a hospital stay or living with a chronic medical condition, a hospital bed can make a world of difference in your comfort and quality of life.

References

https://www.forbes.com/health/healthy-aging/hospital-bed-for-home/
https://www.drugs.com/cg/how-to-choose-and-safely-use-a-hospital-bed.html

https://www.medwish.com/blog/buying-guide/the-perfect-buyers-guide-to-purchasing-hospital-beds-for-private-and-medical-use/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hospital_bed

The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.