What You Need to Know Before Buying a Hospital Bed: A Complete Guide

Are you or a loved one in need of a hospital bed? The process of purchasing a hospital bed can seem overwhelming, with various options and features to consider. From adjustable height to weight capacity, it's important to know what to look for to ensure comfort, safety, and proper care. In this complete guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know before making your purchase. We'll cover the different types of hospital beds available, the features to consider, and the benefits they offer. Whether you're looking for a hospital bed for short-term use or long-term care, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to make the best decision for your needs. So, let's dive in and explore what to know before buying a hospital bed.

Types of Hospital Beds

Before buying a hospital bed, it's important to know the different types available. The 2 main types of hospital beds are manual and fully electric.

Manual hospital beds are operated manually without any electrical components. They are the most basic and affordable option, but they require more effort to adjust and can be difficult for some patients to use.

Fully electric hospital beds are operated entirely by electricity. They are the most expensive option but offer the most comfort and convenience. The head, foot, and height of the bed can be adjusted electrically, allowing for maximum comfort and ease of use.

When it comes to choosing an electric bed, two popular options that often come up for consideration are wooden electric beds and ABS plastic hospital electric beds. Aesthetic Wooden electric beds are known for their elegant and classic appearance. They can blend well with various room styles and create a warm and cozy ambiance.

ABS plastic electric beds are commonly associated with hospitals and clinical environments. The mere presence of an ABS bed in a home may inadvertently create a clinical atmosphere, reminding individuals of illness, medical procedures, or hospital stays. This clinical reminder can cause stress and discomfort, especially for those seeking a more relaxed and homely atmosphere. Wooden bed provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience, but it also adds a touch of elegance to any bedroom. The wooden frame of the bed adds a natural and warm aesthetic that is sure to impress.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Hospital Bed
When buying a hospital bed, several factors should be considered to ensure the best possible care and comfort.

1. Long term and short term usage

Hospital beds can be used for both short-term and long-term purposes, depending on the specific needs and circumstances of the individual. Here's a breakdown of each:

1.1 Short-Term Usage:

Recovery from Surgery: After undergoing surgery, individuals may require a hospital bed for a short period to aid in their recovery. These beds provide comfort, adjustable positioning, and safety features that promote healing and mobility during the post-operative phase.

Acute Illness or Injury: Hospital beds are beneficial for individuals with acute illnesses or injuries that require temporary assistance. They offer support, convenience, and specialized features to accommodate medical treatments, alleviate pain, and aid in the recovery process.

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1.2 Long-Term Usage:

Chronic Medical Conditions: Individuals with chronic medical conditions that affect mobility or require prolonged medical care often benefit from long-term use of hospital beds. Conditions such as advanced arthritis, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, or muscular dystrophy may necessitate a hospital bed to ensure proper positioning, pressure relief, and accessibility.

Age-Related Conditions: Elderly individuals who face challenges with mobility, chronic pain, or age-related conditions like Parkinson's disease or dementia may require a hospital bed for extended periods. These beds offer improved comfort, safety, and support, allowing caregivers to assist with daily care needs.
Palliative or Hospice Care: Hospital beds are commonly used in palliative or hospice care settings to provide comfort, pain management, and ease of care for terminally ill patients. These beds ensure optimal positioning, easy transfer, and enhance the quality of life during end-of-life care.

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It's important to note that the duration of usage for a hospital bed can vary greatly based on individual circumstances. Some individuals may only need the bed for a few weeks or months, while others may require it indefinitely. The decision for short-term or long-term usage depends on the specific medical condition, prognosis, and the recommendations of healthcare professionals.

2. Comfort and Ease of Use
Comfort and ease of use should also be considered when purchasing a hospital bed. The bed should have a comfortable mattress that is suitable for the patient's condition. The bed should also be easy to use, with simple controls for adjustments. Find the right size and weight capacity of the bed. Most of home care user prefer electric bed.

Indeed, one of the significant advantages of electric beds for home care users is the convenience they offer. By having control over their bed's positioning, home care users gain a sense of independence and autonomy. They can make adjustments according to their comfort needs without having to rely on caregivers or family members for assistance. This control over their own comfort and positioning can enhance their overall well-being and quality of life.

Hospital beds come with various features that can enhance comfort and convenience. Some features to consider include side rails, adjustable headrests, and footrests, comfort seating position, double retraction for effective pressure ulcer prevention, and locking wheels. These features can make the bed more comfortable and easier to use for both the patient and the caregiver. 

3. Assess the space where you plan to place the bed
Here are some key factors to consider regarding the space requirements:

Room Size: Measure the dimensions of the room where the hospital bed will be placed. Take into account the length, width, and height of the space. Ensure that the bed will fit comfortably without obstructing doorways, walkways, or other furniture in the room.

Accessibility: Consider the accessibility of the room. Determine if there is enough space for caregivers or medical professionals to maneuver around the bed comfortably. Adequate space should be available to accommodate assistive devices, such as wheelchairs or walking aids, if needed.

Bed Positioning: Decide on the optimal positioning of the bed within the room. Ensure that there is enough space to access the bed from all sides, allowing for ease of care, transfer, and cleaning. Consider factors like proximity to electrical outlets for powering the bed and accessibility to necessary medical equipment or supplies.

Consider Other Furniture: Consider the placement of other furniture or fixtures in the room. Ensure that there is enough space for additional equipment, such as bedside tables, medical equipment, or storage units, if needed. A clutter-free environment promotes safety and ease of use.

4. Budget/ Cost of Hospital Beds
The cost of hospital beds can vary depending on the type, features, and brand. Manual hospital beds are the most affordable, while fully electric beds are the most expensive. It's important to consider the cost and the patient's needs when choosing a hospital bed.

5. Insurance Coverage for Hospital Beds
Check with insurance coverage for hospital beds can vary depending on the patient's condition and needs. It's important to check with your provider and understand the coverage before purchasing a hospital bed. You may check with Perkeso, Zakat and charitable company.  

6. Where to Buy a Hospital Bed
Hospital beds can be purchased from medical supply stores, online retailers, pharmacy and through healthcare providers. It's important to research the options and compare prices before making a purchase. Check our bed collection for further information. 

7. Maintenance and Care for Hospital Beds
Proper maintenance and care are crucial for the longevity and safety of hospital beds. Regular cleaning and disinfecting should be done to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. The bed should also be checked regularly for any signs of wear or damage.

Conclusion
Purchasing a hospital bed can be overwhelming, but knowing what to look for can make the process easier. Consider the type, size, weight capacity, comfort, and features of the bed before making a purchase. Also, consider the cost and insurance coverage. Research the top brands and models and where to buy them. Finally, proper maintenance and care are crucial for the longevity and safety of the bed. With this guide, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to make the best decision for your needs.