When you think of a hospital bed, what comes to mind? Is it a cold and sterile environment with bright lights and beeping machines? While many hospitals may have certain aspects of this, hospital beds have come a long way in terms of comfort and functionality. But what is a hospital bed called exactly?

Believe it or not, there are actually several different types of hospital beds. You may have heard of an adjustable bed or a hospital cot, but there are also intensive care unit (ICU) beds, bariatric beds for heavier patients, and even pediatric beds designed specifically for children. Each of these beds has its own unique features and functions to accommodate different patients’ needs.

So what makes a hospital bed different from a regular bed? It’s not just the institutional look or the fact that it’s located in a healthcare setting. Hospital beds are specifically designed to provide comfort and support to patients who may be immobile or in pain. They often have special features like adjustable height, side rails for safety, and built-in positioning options to help patients get in and out of bed more easily. Whether you’re a patient or a caregiver, understanding what a hospital bed is and how it works can make all the difference in your healthcare experience.

Types of Hospital Beds

When it comes to hospital care, a comfortable and adjustable bed is essential. Hospital beds ensure the safety and comfort of a patient, allowing them to receive proper treatment without compromising their physical well-being. With the advancement in medical technology, hospitals can choose from a variety of hospital beds that serve specific purpose.

• Standard Hospital Beds: These beds are the most commonly used hospital beds. They are designed with a manual crank or electric motor that adjusts the head, foot, and height of the bed. Standard hospital beds come in various sizes and can support different weight capacities, making them safe and versatile option for patients.
• Bariatric Hospital Beds: These beds are specially designed for obese patients with weight capacities of up to 1,000 pounds. Bariatric hospital beds are extra wide and come with reinforced frames and support systems. These beds are also equipped with adjustable height features, making it easier for healthcare providers to attend to patients.
• Pediatric Hospital Beds: These beds are designed for children and infants. Pediatric hospital beds come with adjustable features and safety features, making them safe and comfortable for younger patients. They are typically smaller than standard hospital beds and come with side rails to prevent falls.

Choosing the right hospital bed depends on the patient’s medical condition and needs. For example, a bariatric patient will require a bed with a high weight capacity, while a pediatric patient will require a bed with safety features. Whatever the case may be, hospitals must ensure that they provide patients with suitable hospital beds to ensure proper medical treatment.

Adjustable features of hospital beds

Hospital beds have undergone significant changes over the years. The standard hospital bed comes with a set of features designed to provide maximum comfort and support to patients. However, not all patients have the same physical needs, which is why an adjustable hospital bed has now become the norm.

An adjustable hospital bed can be customized to meet the specific requirements of a patient. This type of bed makes it easy for patients to get in and out of bed, sit upright, or lay flat. Additionally, it offers several other benefits, including:

• Adjustable height: One of the most basic features of an adjustable hospital bed is its adjustable height. The bed can be raised or lowered, making it easier for caregivers to provide care to patients. Additionally, this feature makes it easier for patients to get in and out of bed without risking a fall.
• Adjustable backrest: An adjustable backrest provides support to the patient’s upper body, allowing them to sit up comfortably. This feature is particularly useful for patients who have difficulty breathing, as it helps them breathe easier.
• Adjustable footrest: An adjustable footrest provides support to the patient’s feet, allowing them to elevate their legs and reduce swelling. Additionally, this feature is helpful for patients with back pain, as it can help alleviate pressure on the lower back.

Aside from these basic adjustable features, some hospital beds offer additional customization options, such as:

• Trendelenburg and reverse Trendelenburg positions: Trendelenburg position tilts the bed with the head down and the feet up, while reverse Trendelenburg position tilts the bed with the head up and the feet down. This feature is useful for patients who need to remain in a specific position due to their medical condition.
• Lateral tilt: This feature allows the bed to tilt to one side, which is useful for patients who need to be turned on their side for certain procedures or treatment.
• Built-in scale: Some hospital beds come with a built-in scale, which makes it easy for caregivers to measure a patient’s weight and monitor their progress.

If you or your loved one is spending extended time in a hospital bed, an adjustable hospital bed can provide the comfort and support you need. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider to see if this type of bed is right for you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an adjustable hospital bed is essential for patients who require extended stays in a hospital bed. It provides customizable support and comfort and offers additional features to improve the patient’s overall experience. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if an adjustable hospital bed is the right choice for your needs.

Adjustable Features	Basic Bed	Advanced Bed
Adjustable height	✓	✓
Adjustable backrest	✓	✓
Adjustable footrest	✓	✓
Trendelenburg and reverse Trendelenburg positions	X	✓
Lateral tilt	X	✓
Built-in scale	X	✓

This table provides a quick comparison between a basic adjustable hospital bed and an advanced one with additional customizable features.

Purpose of specialized hospital beds (i.e. ICU beds, birthing beds)

Hospital beds serve as a vital tool for patient care in healthcare settings. While standard hospital beds can accommodate a wide range of patients and conditions, specialized hospital beds have been developed to cater to specific medical needs. Two such specialized hospital beds are ICU beds and birthing beds.

ICU Beds

Intensive care unit (ICU) beds are designed to provide critical care to patients with severe and life-threatening illnesses or injuries. ICU patients require close monitoring and continuous care, which is precisely what these specialized hospital beds offer. They come with ventilators, cardiac monitoring systems, and other high-tech medical equipment that allow for on-the-spot intervention in case of an emergency.

ICU beds also provide several other features that are not found in standard hospital beds such as versatile positioning options, pressure relief surfaces, and heightened accessibility for healthcare providers. These beds are critical in saving lives and providing essential care to patients whose conditions require it.

Birthing Beds

Birthing beds, also known as labor and delivery beds, are designed to accommodate the birthing process for women in labor. These specialized hospital beds provide features such as stirrups, adjustable inclines, and handholds to help women deliver their babies safely. The beds are designed with comfort and support in mind, ensuring that the mother and the infant’s needs are met.

Birthing beds also play a crucial role in reducing labor complications and easing the labor process. These beds make it easier for healthcare providers to monitor and assist in the birthing process, ensuring that both the mother and the infant are safe.

Other Specialized Hospital Beds

• Pediatric Beds: These specialized hospital beds are designed for children and infants, with features that promote their comfort and safety during hospital stays.
• Bariatric Beds: Bariatric beds are designed to accommodate patients who weigh more than the average person, ensuring that they receive proper care without compromising their safety.
• Recovery Beds: Recovery beds are specialized hospital beds designed for patients recovering from surgery or an illness. They offer features such as adjustable height, specialized mattress, and other positioning options to promote comfort and healing.

Conclusion

Specialized hospital beds play a critical role in patient care, providing features and designs to address specific medical needs. ICU beds and birthing beds are two such beds, designed to accommodate critically ill patients and women in labor, respectively. Other specialized hospital beds, such as pediatric beds, bariatric beds, and recovery beds, also cater to specific patient populations. These specialized beds are just one part of the broader healthcare system, working together with healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes.

Importance of Hospital Bed Cleanliness

The cleanliness of hospital beds is crucial for the well-being and quick recovery of patients. The hospital environment is a breeding ground for harmful pathogens, which can increase the risk of infection and disease transmission. Proper cleaning and disinfection of hospital beds and other medical equipment can prevent the spread of infectious diseases and keep patients and healthcare workers safe from harm.

• Reduced Risk of Infections

Hospital-acquired infections are a significant problem in the healthcare industry. One of the most effective ways to combat this problem is through the use of proper cleaning and disinfection techniques. Cleanliness is essential when it comes to controlling the outbreak of infections in a hospital setting.

• Patient Safety

Clean hospital beds are an essential component of patient safety. When patients are admitted to a hospital, they are already vulnerable to new diseases and infections. By keeping hospital beds clean and fresh, patients can avoid the risk of additional complications and remain safe while receiving medical treatment.

• Healthcare Worker Safety

Hospital beds are not only important for patient safety, but they are also essential for the safety of healthcare workers. Healthcare workers who do not take proper precautions and maintain a high level of cleanliness are at risk of contracting infectious diseases. A clean, disinfected hospital bed ensures the safety of both patients and healthcare workers.

Best Practices for Hospital Bed Cleaning

There are several best practices that healthcare facilities should follow to maintain a clean and safe hospital environment.

• Use disposable wipes
• Wear protective gloves and gowns
• Clean hospital beds daily or after each use
• Use hospital-grade disinfectants
• Pay special attention to high-touch surfaces

The Role of Hospital Bed Manufacturers

Hospital bed manufacturers play a vital role in ensuring the cleanliness and safety of hospital beds. They provide products that are designed to meet the unique needs of healthcare facilities and offer solutions that are specifically tailored to reduce the risk of infections.

Manufacturer	Features	Description
Hill-Rom	Antimicrobial technology	Minimizes the growth of bacteria on the surface of the bed
Stryker	Advanced pressure relief	Reduces the risk of pressure ulcers and other skin injuries for patients
Invacare	Detachable and washable components	Facilitates easy cleaning and disinfection of hospital beds

In conclusion, the cleanliness of hospital beds is critical for maintaining the safety and well-being of patients, healthcare workers, and visitors. By following best practices for hospital bed cleaning and using innovative products from reliable hospital bed manufacturers, healthcare facilities can provide a safe and clean environment that promotes quick and effective patient recovery.

Regulations and safety standards for hospital beds

When it comes to hospital beds, safety is of utmost importance. Hospital beds must meet certain regulations and safety standards to ensure that they are safe for patients to use. Here are some of the regulations and safety standards that hospital beds must meet:

• UL 60601-1: This is a safety standard for medical electrical equipment, which includes hospital beds. It ensures that the electrical components of the bed are safe for patients to use.
• CE marking: This is a mark that indicates that the product meets the safety, health, and environmental protection standards of the European Union.
• FDA regulations: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has regulations that govern the manufacture and sale of medical devices, including hospital beds.

In addition to these regulations, hospital beds must also meet safety standards for specific features, such as:

• The side rails of the bed must be between 14 and 15 inches above the mattress.
• The distance between the side rails must be less than 4.75 inches to prevent patients from getting stuck.
• The bed must be able to support at least 500 pounds to accommodate all patients.

Hospital beds also come with various safety features, such as:

• Emergency release mechanisms that allow the patient to quickly get out of bed in case of an emergency.
• Low height settings that make it easier for patients to get in and out of bed.
• Brakes that keep the bed from moving when the patient is getting in or out of bed.

Types of hospital beds

There are several types of hospital beds that are commonly used in healthcare settings:

Manual hospital beds are the most basic type of hospital bed. They are operated by hand cranks that raise and lower the head and foot of the bed. These beds are typically less expensive than other types of hospital beds, but they can be more difficult for patients and caregivers to operate.

Semi-electric hospital beds are a step up from manual beds. They have an electric motor that raises and lowers the head and foot of the bed, but the height of the bed is still adjusted manually. These beds are easier to operate than manual beds, but they are more expensive.

Full-electric hospital beds are the most advanced type of hospital bed. They have electric motors that raise and lower the head, foot, and height of the bed. These beds are the easiest to operate, but they are also the most expensive.

Features of hospital beds

Hospital beds come with a variety of features that make them more comfortable and convenient for patients:

Feature	Description
Adjustable height	The height of the bed can be adjusted to make it easier for patients to get in and out of bed.
Trendelenburg position	The bed can be tilted so that the feet are higher than the head to improve blood flow.
Bedside rails	Side rails on the bed can help patients get in and out of bed and prevent them from falling out of bed.
Mattress	Specialized mattresses can prevent bedsores and provide additional comfort and support.

Overall, hospital beds play a vital role in healthcare settings. They must meet strict regulations and safety standards to ensure that they are safe and effective for patients to use. Understanding the different types and features of hospital beds can help patients and caregivers choose the right bed for their needs.

Hospital Bed Accessories (i.e. Bed Rails, Overbed Tables)

When most people think of a hospital bed, they may picture just a typical bed with some medical equipment attached to it. However, there are various accessories and add-ons that can make a hospital bed safer and more comfortable for patients.

Bed Rails

• Bed rails are a common accessory that attach to the sides of a hospital bed to prevent patients from falling out of bed.
• They come in various sizes and can be adjusted to fit the patient’s needs.
• Bed rails can also be removable or collapsible to provide easier access in and out of bed.

Overbed Tables

Overbed tables are another accessory that are commonly found in hospital rooms.

• They provide a flat surface for patients to eat, read, or use their laptop on.
• Overbed tables can also be adjusted in height and angle to accommodate various positions and activities.
• Some overbed tables even have additional features such as storage compartments or built-in lighting.

Built-in Scale

Built-in scales are an advanced accessory that can help healthcare providers monitor patient weight with ease.

• The scale is built into the hospital bed itself, eliminating the need for patients to be transferred to a separate scale.
• Healthcare providers can easily track patient weight fluctuations and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
• Built-in scales can also reduce the risk of injury for both patients and healthcare providers by eliminating the need for lifting or transferring.

Mattress Overlay

A mattress overlay is an accessory that can make a hospital bed more comfortable for patients.

• It is a thin layer of foam or air-filled material that is placed on top of the standard hospital bed mattress.
• Mattress overlays can help reduce pressure on certain parts of the body and prevent bedsores.
• They can also provide additional support and comfort for patients with chronic pain or mobility issues.

Call Bell System

A call bell system is an accessory that allows patients to easily communicate with healthcare providers.

Call Bell System Components	Description
Call Bell Button	A button located on the patient’s bed or in their hand that they can press to signal for assistance.
Nurse Station Display	A display located at the nurse’s station that alerts healthcare providers to the patient’s call.
Speaker/Microphone	A speaker and microphone system that allows the patient and healthcare provider to communicate with each other.

A call bell system can improve patient safety and satisfaction by allowing them to quickly and easily receive assistance when needed.

Future advancements in hospital bed technology.

In the world of healthcare technology, hospital beds are no exception to innovation. As healthcare professionals strive to provide the best possible care for their patients, hospital beds are getting advanced, resulting in a more comfortable and efficient experience for patients and healthcare providers. Here are some potential future advancements in hospital bed technology to watch out for:

• Smart beds: Beds that calculate and adjust patients’ positioning based on biometric feedback.
• Augmented reality: Beds equipped with augmented reality features that could assist with recovery and therapy for patients.
• Integrated vital sign monitors: Beds equipped with technology to monitor the patient’s vital signs without needing additional equipment.

In addition to the future possibilities, new technologies are already in use in hospitals. Among these are:

Low bed height: These beds make it easier for patients to get in and out of bed, as well as for health care providers to administer care.

Pressure-relieving mattresses: These mattresses help prevent bedsores and skin ulcers in patients who spend extended periods in bed.

The demand for hospital bed technology is growing and continuously evolving. The potential for future advances in hospital bed technology is unsustainable. However, these advances are not only benefiting patients but also aiding in the prevention of stress and burnout for healthcare workers, ensuring the utmost comfort, and reducing workplace visits.

Benefits of Future Hospital Bed Advancements:
Reduced patient infections.
Increased patient safety.
Enhanced patient healing experience.
Reduced bedsores and skin ulcers.
Increased patient mobilization.

The future of hospital bed technology remains promising, as hospitals strive to deliver better healthcare to patients while making it easier and more efficient for healthcare providers. As technology continues to evolve, so will the hospital bed.

What Is a Hospital Bed Called: FAQs

1. What is the actual name of a hospital bed?

A hospital bed is officially called a medical bed or an adjustable bed.

2. What distinguishes a hospital bed from a conventional bed?

A hospital bed is designed to provide medical benefits and comfort to patients requiring long-term care, recovering from an injury or surgery, or suffering from a medical condition.

3. What features does a hospital bed typically have?

Hospital beds come in different models and sizes, but generally have adjustable height, head, and leg sections, side rails, remote control, and wheels for mobility and maneuverability.

4. Are hospital beds only found in hospitals?

No, hospitals beds are used in various medical facilities, including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospice care, rehabilitation centers, and home care.

5. Can a hospital bed be used at home?

Yes, hospital beds are commonly used at home for patients who require special care and assistance, or who have mobility issues.

6. Is it possible to buy a hospital bed, and how much does it cost?

Yes, hospital beds can be purchased or rented from medical equipment suppliers or online stores. Depending on the brand, model, and features, a hospital bed can cost from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

7. Are there any safety measures to consider when using a hospital bed?

Yes, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines, including locking the wheels, using the side rails, checking the mattress, and avoiding any modifications without prior approval.

Closing Thoughts

Thanks for learning about what is a hospital bed called. Hospitals and other medical facilities use them to provide patients with enhanced care and comfort. You can also get them for home care or assisted living. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines when using hospital beds, and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask a medical professional. Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you again soon!