In the evolving landscape of healthcare, providing optimal patient care is paramount. One critical aspect often overlooked is the type of hospital bed used, especially for bariatric patients. While manual two-crank hospital beds have been a staple in many healthcare settings due to their economical nature, there’s a growing need to recognize the benefits of advanced bariatric electric beds. If your healthcare center or hospital supplies distributor is in search of a versatile and premium bariatric hospital bed, this blog post will guide you through essential considerations and customization options available, ensuring you make an informed decision.
The Current Norm: Manual Two-Crank Hospital Beds
The most commonly used hospital bed in healthcare centers today is the manual two-crank bed. This traditional setup allows caregivers to adjust the backrest and knee sections via manual cranks located below the footboard, often hidden from view. These beds are economical and serve the basic needs of many patients. However, they fall short when it comes to accommodating special healthcare requirements, particularly for bariatric patients.
Limitations of Manual Beds
- Limited Adjustability: Manual beds offer limited positioning options. They cannot provide the Trendelenburg or reverse Trendelenburg positions, which are crucial for certain medical conditions.
- Patient Safety: Moving and adjusting a bariatric patient manually can pose significant safety risks for both the patient and the caregiver.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Manual beds do not integrate with advanced monitoring systems, making it difficult to track patient weight and other vital statistics in real time.
- Caregiver Strain: Continuous use of manual cranks can lead to physical strain for caregivers, reducing overall efficiency and increasing the risk of work-related injuries.
The Case for Advanced Bariatric Electric Beds
Advanced bariatric electric beds address these limitations, offering enhanced functionality, safety, and comfort for both patients and caregivers. Here’s why healthcare centers should consider investing in these premium beds:
Enhanced Adjustability and Positioning
Electric bariatric beds come with features that manual beds simply cannot match. They allow for precise adjustments, including the Trendelenburg and reverse Trendelenburg positions, which are essential for various medical treatments and diagnostics. This level of adjustability ensures that patients receive the optimal care posture, promoting better outcomes and faster recovery.
Improved Patient Safety
Moving a bariatric patient can be challenging and risky. Electric beds minimize the physical effort required, reducing the risk of injury to both the patient and the caregiver. Many electric beds also come with advanced safety features such as side rails, locking mechanisms, and emergency stop buttons, further enhancing patient safety.
Real-Time Monitoring and Data Integration
One of the standout features of advanced bariatric electric beds is their ability to integrate with nurse controller stations and real-time patient monitoring systems. These beds can record patient weight and other vital statistics, providing healthcare professionals with up-to-date information that can be critical for treatment decisions. This integration not only improves patient care but also streamlines workflow for caregivers.
A Paramount bariatric bed specification:
| Category | Specification |
| Product Name | Bariatric Bed |
| Overall Dimensions | L2150 mm × W980 mm × H480 mm-700 mm |
| Hospital Bed Frame | Perforated power-coated steel |
| Surface Treatment | Epoxy coated |
| Hospital Bed Weight | 120 kg |
| Hospital Bed Platform | MS perforated platform with ventilation hole |
| Loading Capacity | 500 kg (1000 lbs) |
| Voltage | 110V 60Hz, 220V 50Hz |
| Mattress | Included, anti-allergic, latex-free, breathable, and waterproof |
| Packaging Box Dimensions | L2000 mm × W1000 mm × H500 mm |
| Available Functions | |
| Backrest Lifting Angle | 0-85° |
| Knee-rest Lifting Angle | 0-45° |
| Reverse and Trendelenburg | 15° ± 2° |
| Length Extension | 200 mm |
| Hi-lo Adjustment | 480 mm – 750 mm |
| Manual CPR | Easy-access CPR lever |
| Patient Weighting Record | Integrated into the digital nurse controller station |
| Standard Accessories | |
| Backup Power | With backup battery (one set) |
| Detachable ABS Head & Footboard | 1 pair |
| ABS All Surrounded Tuck Away Side Rail | 1 pair with angle indicator, 4 pieces |
| Motor | 4 motors |
| Castor | 4 pieces (6” (150 mm); Deluxe Castor with central breaking system) |
| Nurse Controller Station | 1 piece |
| Drainage Bag Hooks | 4 pieces |
| IV Pole Socket | 4 pieces |
| IV Pole Height Adjustable | 1 piece |
| Features | |
| Robust and Durable Frame | Crafted from a steel tube frame with an epoxy coating |
| Translucent Head Section with Cassette Holder | Facilitates easy X-ray studies without needing to move the patient |
| Intensive Care Functions & Full Chair Position | Ensures patient comfort and safety during various care procedures |
| CPR Accessibility | Features an easy-access CPR lever for critical interventions |
| Removable and Disinfectant-Resistant Surfaces | Headboard and footboard can be removed and cleaned for infection control |
| Side Safety Rails | Removable and releasable with one hand, enhancing patient safety during transfers |
| Electrical Movement Locking System | Provides additional security and stability |
| Integrated Scale | Offers real-time weight data for precise medical assessments, providing a comprehensive care solution |
| Wheels and Braking System | Four maintenance-free swivel wheels with a dual pedal system for total and directional braking, and a centralized braking system for ease of movement and stability |
| Intuitive Nurse Control Station | Features an LED screen and touch buttons for easy adjustment of various movements |
| Built-in Control Buttons | Two sets of control buttons on each side rail allow both patients and nurses to easily adjust the bed position |
| Power Specifications | Operates on 110–127 Volts, 60 Hz/ 220–230 Volts, 50Hz, with four low-voltage electric motors for smooth operation |
Customization Options
When sourcing an advanced bariatric electric bed, it’s essential to consider the customization options available. Reputable hospital bed manufacturers offer a range of features that can be tailored to meet specific healthcare needs. Here are some key customization options to look for:
- Weight Capacity: Ensure the bed can accommodate the weight capacity required for bariatric patients. Look for beds that can support weights up to 750 lbs or more.
- Mattress Type: Choose between different types of bariatric mattresses, including pressure-reducing, alternating air, and foam variants, based on patient needs.
- Adjustable Features: Opt for beds with adjustable head, foot, and knee sections, as well as Trendelenburg and reverse Trendelenburg positions.
- Electronic Interface: Look for beds with intuitive electronic interfaces that allow easy adjustment and monitoring. Some models come with handheld remote controls or integrated nurse call systems.
- Safety Features: Prioritize beds with robust safety features such as side rails, locking mechanisms, and emergency stop functions.
- Durability and Maintenance: Select beds made from high-quality materials that are easy to clean and maintain, ensuring longevity and hygiene.
Choosing the Right Manufacturer
Selecting the right hospital bed manufacturer is crucial to ensuring you get a high-quality, reliable product. Here are some tips to guide your choice:
- Reputation and Experience: Choose a manufacturer with a proven track record in producing durable and reliable hospital beds. Look for customer reviews and testimonials to gauge their reputation.
- Customization Capabilities: Ensure the manufacturer offers the customization options you need to meet the specific requirements of your healthcare center.
- After-Sales Support: Consider the level of after-sales support provided, including warranty, maintenance services, and technical support.
- Compliance with Standards: Verify that the manufacturer adheres to relevant healthcare standards and regulations, ensuring the beds are safe and compliant for use in clinical settings.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While advanced bariatric electric beds are an investment, it’s essential to find a balance between cost and quality. Request quotes from multiple manufacturers and compare their offerings.
Conclusion
Investing in advanced bariatric electric beds is a strategic move for any healthcare center aiming to provide top-notch patient care. While manual two-crank beds have their place in routine care, the specialized needs of bariatric patients demand the enhanced functionality, safety, and monitoring capabilities of electric beds. By considering key customization options and choosing a reputable hospital bed manufacturer, healthcare centers can ensure they deliver the best possible care while optimizing operational efficiency and patient safety.
If your healthcare center or hospital supplies distributor is in search of a versatile bariatric hospital bed, taking a comprehensive reference page to understand all essential points and available customization options is a prudent step. Make the switch to advanced bariatric electric beds and elevate the standard of care you provide.