The Most Important Factors To Consider When Choosing A Hospital Bed For Homecare

The Most Important Factors To Consider When Choosing A Hospital Bed For Homecare

The Most Important Factors To Consider When Choosing A Hospital Bed For Homecare

The use of hospital beds in the home has increased a lot in recent years because they provide so many benefits to people recovering from illnesses. They allow for recovery in a comfortable environment, while also ensuring good mobility and safety. 

Adjustable beds are an incredibly valuable tool for primary carers because they make it far easier to move the person and transfer them from their bed into a wheelchair. These adjustable beds (often simply called electric beds) use a series of hinges, allowing the bed to move and recline in various places. Whether you provide long term care for a loved one or you are recovering from an injury or illness, a hospital bed for the home is one of the best investments you can make.

However, electric adjustable beds prices can be quite high and when you are making such a large purchase, it’s important to be informed. This guide will take you through some of the main factors that you must consider when comparing different hospital beds for sale and making your decision. 

 

Mobility caring hospital beds



How long will you need the bed?


The length of time that you will use the bed is an important consideration because it gives you some indication of how much you should spend. If you are using the bed for a few months while you recover from an injury or illness, you don’t want to invest too much. However, if this is going to be a long term care solution for a loved one, you should consider more advanced adjustable beds

If you only need the bed temporarily, look into semi-electric options instead of a fully electric bed. These beds still have electric controls to change the position, but they use a manual crank to increase and decrease the height. Semi-electric beds are a cheaper option better suited to people that only need one for a short period. However, if you need the bed long term, it’s best to go for fully electric adjustable beds. 

The size and mobility of the patient


The size and mobility of the patient that will be using the bed help to determine what features you need. For example, tall patients will require an extended bed to ensure that they are comfortable. Any patients that are above average weight may require a bariatric bed because they are sturdier and can take more weight. If you are purchasing the bed for a child, there are specific adjustable beds available with a miniaturized hospital bed frame. 

You will also have different requirements depending on the mobility of the patient. If their mobility is low and they need a lot of help to get in and out of bed, you will need a fully electric adjustable bed that provides extensive movement and positioning options. 

Affordability 


Electric beds prices vary a lot depending on the size and the features that are included. While it is important to choose the right adjustable bed for the patient, you also need to consider the affordability of the bed and your own financial situation. 

Finding brand new hospital beds for sale is usually the best option, but they can be expensive. If the average electric adjustable beds prices are too high for you, consider buying a used bed. As long as you do your research and buy from a reliable source, these electric beds will be just as effective as a new one. 

Hospitals that are closing down or facilities that are upgrading their equipment will have a lot of second-hand hospital beds available for sale, so these are great places to start. 

The most important bed features to look for


The above factors will help you determine your needs when comparing different hospital beds for sale, but what specific features should you look for?

Positioning options 


The range of positioning options varies greatly between hospital beds, which is why it is important to think about the mobility needs of the patient. Some beds will offer simple positioning options with basic movements to help the patient sit up, for example. But modern electric adjustable beds provide more advanced positioning options, which may be necessary for patients with very limited mobility.

Side rails 


The side rails on adjustable beds give the patient added support when getting in and out of bed. They also stop the patient from falling out of the bed during the night, so they’re a very important safety feature. The strength and quality of side rails differ between beds, so double check them before you purchase a bed. 

Gap protection 


Most hospital beds should come with some form of gap protection but you should always check because this is a vital feature. If patients are likely to move in the night or they are prone to seizures, there is a danger that they can become stuck in the gap between the railing and the mattress. Always check what gap protection is in place before buying an electric bed.

Storage 


Storage is a feature that is often underestimated but it can be very useful. Some beds come with small storage compartments that can be used for medication, for example. This is ideal for patients with limited mobility that will be left alone for certain periods because they still have easy access to everything they need. 

Scales 


Electric beds prices do increase if you look at ones with a scale, but it can be a valuable feature. Weighing patients during medical checks is important but this can be difficult if they have severe mobility issues. Having an adjustable bed with a built-in scale offers a simple solution to this issue and makes medical checks more comfortable for the patient. 

Trying to find the right product amongst all of the different hospital beds for sale can be tricky and when you are spending a lot of money on a bed, you need to be sure that you have made the right decision. If you consider the important factors listed above and compare all of the most important features, you can find the ideal adjustable bed to provide an increased level of comfort and care. 

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