Medical bed

Medical beds can be called care-beds, high dependency beds, disabled beds and wellbeing beds along with many other cryptic and semi descriptive names.

However these names do not necessarily mean that these are the types of bed and mattress found in hospitals. In fact many manufacturers and retailers will market adjustable beds and electric beds as medical beds since, as with orthopedic mattresses, there is no clear definition of what these terms mean.

Getting a medical bed

If you feel that you or a member of your family may require a medical bed you should consult with your carers or medical team. This will usually involve all or some of the following medical professionals, doctors, nurses, physical therapists and occupational therapists.

These medical experts will be able to provide the best recommendations in respect of the bed and mattress type that is required plus any special functionality that will help with the delivery of treatments or the relief of pain, pressure, tension etc.

In many European countries like the UK these beds may be provided by a national health service or trust. Alternatively, grants or financial assistance may be available.

Considerations

Hospital style medical beds can be longer, wider, higher and heavier than a regular single bed. This may restrict the locations in which such a bed can be located.

If the bed relies upon remote control for its adjustability it will require close proximity to an electrical outlet.

If one of the reasons for obtaining this kind of bed is the facilitation of care and treatments, then it will be essential that there is sufficient working space to the sides, front and even the rear of the bed. Carers and any equipment will need to operate from immediately adjacent to the bedside.

It the person (patient) has mobility that depends upon a wheelchair, it will be necessary to have adequate space for the wheelchair (or even a hoist) to manoeuvre next to the bed.

Categories of medical bed

There are no definitive categories of medical bed, however the following can act as good general definitions and offer an indication of the beds intended use and patient requirements.

Home care beds – these are similar to standard hospital beds, but they are intended for the home. They offer most of the facilities and adjustments of the beds found in hospitals, but they will normally be lighter and suited to the home. This kind of bed is often found in care homes.

Acute medical beds – these are the beds that are seen in hospitals and the patients who require them normally need constant care. This is normally the type of care that is only available in a medical facility and consequently this kind of bed is rarely seen in the home.

Paediatric bed – these are special care beds for babies and young children and they cover a wide spectrum of care provision. They can have any or all of the functionality of care or acute care beds and they will normally have child guard rails to stop infants falling out of the bed.

A further classification of bed is that sometimes called a nursing or general medical bed. Frequently found in homes and care homes for the elderly this is a fairly basic bed, but one that will have facilities like height adjustment (required during treatment). Adjustable rake (angle) for the back and legs is another popular feature. Beds of this type will have side rails, head and foot boards and will be designed to take a heavier than average person.

All of the above bed classifications will usually have heavy duty castors and the mattresses will be purchased separately. Mattress options can include those based on springs, however foams and air are more popular for medical beds. Pulmonary mattresses are option for people with special requirements.

For massage and therapy beds see massage beds.

Back to Orthopedic mattress and specialist bed page

Back to the Home Page