Hospital beds are specialized, adjustable pieces of equipment designed to enhance patient comfort and support while simplifying caregiving tasks. Unlike standard home beds, these models feature motorized controls that allow for dynamic positioning of the mattress platform and overall height. Understanding the correct and safe way to operate these functions is necessary for any new user or caregiver. This guide provides practical instruction on operating a modern electric hospital bed.
Understanding the Main Components
A standard electric hospital bed is built around a segmented frame that supports the mattress and patient. The frame is typically made of high-strength steel or aluminum alloy to ensure stability and durability. This frame rests upon casters, or wheels, which allow the bed to be moved for cleaning or repositioning within a room.
The bed’s movements are powered by motors housed beneath the frame, controlled by a hand pendant (remote controller). This handheld device connects to the electrical system, featuring buttons with icons that correspond to specific functions like raising the head or foot. A separate, often larger control panel may also be located on the footboard or side rails, providing additional controls, including safety lockouts, for the caregiver.
Adjusting the Patient Position
Adjusting the patient’s position is primarily done using the hand pendant, which controls the bed’s main directional movements. Pressing and holding the appropriate button activates the motorized function, and releasing the button stops the movement precisely where desired. This allows the user to tailor the bed’s configuration to the patient’s immediate needs.
To elevate the patient’s upper body, the “head up” button raises the head section into a semi-seated or Fowler position. This position assists with breathing, digestion, and comfort for activities like reading or watching television. Conversely, the “head down” button lowers the section back toward a flat, horizontal plane.
The “foot up” and “foot down” buttons control the knee break, raising or lowering the section under the patient’s knees and lower legs. Elevating the knees slightly prevents the patient from sliding down when the head section is raised and improves circulation. Some beds feature an “auto contour” function that simultaneously raises the head and foot sections to maintain comfortable body alignment and prevent shearing forces on the skin.
The “bed height up” and “bed height down” buttons adjust the entire frame vertically, known as the Hi-Low function. When a patient prepares to enter or exit the bed, the frame should be lowered until the patient’s feet can rest flat on the floor when sitting on the edge. When a caregiver is performing tasks, the bed height should be raised to a comfortable working level to minimize back strain.
Utilizing Safety Features
Proper use of the bed’s integrated safety features is necessary to prevent accidental falls and unintended movement. The casters on all hospital beds are equipped with locking mechanisms, which must be engaged whenever the bed is stationary or when a patient is being transferred. This prevents the bed from sliding during a transfer, which could result in a fall or injury.
Side rails are available on most beds and serve as a boundary to prevent the patient from rolling out of the bed. These rails can be raised or lowered and should be securely locked into position when in use. Ensure that the gaps between the mattress and the side rails are minimized to reduce the risk of entrapment.
Many modern beds include a control lockout feature, often located on the caregiver’s control panel, which disables the hand pendant. Engaging this lockout prevents the patient from making accidental or unauthorized positional changes. This feature helps maintain the bed in a safe, prescribed position, especially for patients who may be confused or have cognitive impairments.
Basic Troubleshooting and Care
If the electric bed suddenly stops responding to commands, first check the power source and all connections. Verify that the main power cord is securely plugged into a grounded wall outlet and that the cord is not frayed or damaged. Also, check the connection where the hand pendant plugs into the bed frame to ensure it is firmly seated.
Some beds have a main power switch or a circuit breaker, often located near the motor or at the footboard, which may need to be reset. If the bed is still unresponsive, check for an active lockout feature, as the bed will not move if the controls are disabled. Keep all cords and cables clear of the bed’s moving parts and frame to prevent them from being pinched or damaged during adjustments.
Routine cleaning of the bed frame and mattress should be performed using a mild, non-abrasive disinfectant solution. Regular maintenance, such as periodically inspecting the wheels and lubricating moving parts according to the manufacturer’s directions, helps ensure smooth operation and prevents mechanical failures. If the bed makes unusual noises or a motor sounds like it is running but the bed is not moving, a mechanical component may be bent or jammed and require professional service.