Hospital bed is a big deal when it comes to assuring comfort, safety, and recovery for a sick patient. Rental may be a cost-effective solution that is flexible; however, choosing one becomes very important.
In this guide, we discuss the various features to focus on when selecting a hospital bed for home care to ensure the one selected for your needs is the best.
1. Adjustable Height
An ideal hospital bed for patients allows height adjustment. Its importance is due to the following factors:
- Easy transfers from wheelchairs or other surfaces.
- Better access for caregivers (less back strain).
- Great comfort for patients who want to get into or out of bed.
The height adjustment should be made either electrically or hydraulically for an easy and smooth operation.
2. Head and Foot Adjustment (Trendelenburg and Reverse Trendelenburg)
Against adjustment between the head and the foot is appropriate for:
- Comfort when reading, eating, or watching TV.
- Medical reasons (say for example, reduction in swelling, improvement of circulation, or facilitation of breathing).
- Some higher-end beds offer Trendelenburg (head down and feet up) and Reverse Trendelenburg (head up and feet down) positions for certain medical needs.
3. Side Rails for Safety
The use of removable or foldable rails aids in reducing the risk of falls and providing support during movement. Consider:
- Full-length rails for maximum safety (especially for patients at risk of rolling out).
- Half-length or swing-away rails for easier caregiver access.
- Padded rails for comfort and injury prevention.
4. Mattress Type and Support
A suitable mattress can prevent bedsores (pressure ulcers) and promote patient comfort. There are different types:
- Foam mattresses are cheap and light.
- Air mattresses (alternating pressure) take care of pressure points for bedridden clients.
- Gel or memory foam support and comfort the patient better for long-term use.
It should be secured properly to the mattress base and must be antibacterial and waterproof for easy maintenance.
5. Mobility and Stability (Wheels & Locking Mechanism)
A hospital bed should:
- Include locking wheels or casters for movement as and when required and stability when locked.
- Have a sturdy frame that does not tip or shake.
- Be easy to maneuver in tight spaces within the home.
6. Weight Capacity
Maximum allowable weight can determine the safe support of a patient. In general, standard beds hold 350-500 lb, and therefore, bariatric beds can hold 600-1,000+ lb.
7. Ease of Operation (Manual vs. Electric Controls)
- Manual beds use hand cranks, being cheaper but more tired to operate.
- Semi-electric beds are motorized with head/foot adjustment, manual height control.
- Full-electric beds are one-touch buttons for all adjustments (most user friendly).
8. Additional Features (Optional but Helpful)
- Built-in trapeze bars to assist in patient repositioning
- IV pole attachments for patients requiring IV therapy at home
- Under-bed clearance to accommodate patient lifts or storage
Final Tips for Renting a Hospital Bed
- Consult a doctor or physical therapist for recommendations.
- Review rental terms (delivery, setup, maintenance, and pickup).
- Check for insurance coverage (Some insurance policies may cover hospital bed rental costs).
Conclusion
Whether right for Hospital bed rental for home care selection depends on safety, comfort, and function. Ensuring these basic features guarantees an easier recovery for your loved one and nice working for the caregiver.
Interested in choosing the right hospital bed? Give us a call today as we are ready to offer you expert help and rental assistance at affordable rates!