Hospital beds are essential medical equipment, and when used in medical settings or at home for long-term patient care, should be very much taken care of. Apart from patient safety and comfort, ensuring good care and maintenance will also prolong the usefulness of the hospital bed. Maintenance and care of the hospital bed are done with a variety of methods.
Cleaning and Disinfection
Hospital beds need to be kept clean to avoid the spread of germs and infections. Use a mild disinfectant that is safe for medical equipment and wipe all surfaces down daily. Give these areas special attention: bed rails, hand controls, and mattress surfaces. Dust and debris from cracks and spaces under the bed frame should be cleaned away on a regular basis. Weekly deep clean the beds that are in the home.
Mechanical and Electrical
Most hospital beds today are electrically operated. You want to check the following regularly:
- Motor Operation: The motor should run smoothly with no abnormal sound or hesitation.
- Remote/Controls: All buttons on the hand or foot control should operate properly.
- Power Cord: Look for fraying and cracking or any type of damage.
If you get any type of malfunction, workers should address it immediately to ensure no patient is injured or patient care is not disrupted.
Check the Mattress and Bedding
It is important the mattress is firm and not sagging, torn or matted down as these conditions can cause discomfort for the patient and lead to bedsores. The mattress cover should be waterproof to prolong mattress life. Bed linens should be changed and washed regularly to promote cleanliness and comfort during his/her stay.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Like any other mechanical system, the joints and hinges of the hospital bed need lubrication in order to perform appropriately. Use a lubricant that the manufacturer has approved and lubricate any moving parts, mainly the wheels, frame of the bed, and/or joints every couple of months\
Inspect Safety Features
- Ensure that the bed rails are properly secured and undamaged. Test the wheel locks to verify that the bed will maintain its position as necessary.
- If the bed has an emergency manual override feature, you may also want to ensure you have had training in the event of a power failure.
Professional Maintenance
If applicable to a hospital/similar health care organization or long-term home care patient, schedule a professional inspection according to manufacturer recommendations and at least annually. The certified technician might detect wear and tear undugged by you, ensuring the bed meets the safety standards.
Final thoughts
Caring for your hospital bed is as much about keeping it clean as it is about assuring the safety and well-being of the concerned person. Just with a little maintenance, your hospital bed should remain a sturdy support for many years.