Hospital Beds (Sick Beds): Features, Types, and Uses

A hospital bed (often called a sick bed) is specially designed for patients who are ill, injured, or recovering. It provides comfort, safety, and facilitates medical care.

Key Features

• Adjustability: Electric or manual adjustment of height, head (Fowler's position), foot, and knee-break (Trendelenburg/reverse Trendelenburg).
• Side rails: Prevent falls; can be full, half, or split.
• Mattress: Pressure-redistributing (foam, air, gel) to prevent pressure ulcers.
• Mobility: Lockable casters for easy transport.
• Integrated accessories: IV poles, trapeze bars, bed scales, built-in scales, oxygen tank holders.

Types

• Manual: Hand-crank adjustments; economical.
• Semi-electric: Head/foot electric; height manual.
• Full-electric: All adjustments electric; standard in hospitals.
• Bariatric: Reinforced frame, wider surface, higher weight capacity (up to 1000 lbs).
• Low beds: Minimize fall injury risk; used for fall-prone patients.
• Specialty beds: Rotating, air-fluidized, or low-air-loss for severe pressure ulcers.

Home Use

Home hospital beds are available for rental or purchase. Considerations include space, caregiver ability, insurance coverage, and patient needs (e.g., need for frequent repositioning).