Folding an electric hospital bed is a necessary task for relocating the unit or preparing it for storage, but the process involves heavy, mechanical components that require strict safety adherence. Since electric hospital beds vary significantly in design, all users must consult the specific manufacturer’s manual for their model. The steps below provide a general, safe procedure for collapsing the frame, which is often designed to fold into a compact “Z” or “U” shape for easier handling.
Pre-Folding Safety and Preparation
The preparation phase is important for preventing unexpected movement or electrical shock before any physical disassembly begins. First, use the hand control pendant to lower the bed’s sleeping surface completely flat and to its lowest possible vertical height. A fully lowered, flat position provides maximum stability and reduces stress on the frame’s hinge points during the folding process. Once the bed is in its lowest position, the caster wheels must be securely locked to eliminate any risk of rolling.
Next, disconnect the bed from its power source by unplugging the main power cord from the wall outlet. The power cord should then be coiled neatly and secured to the frame, often with a provided strap, to prevent it from tangling or sustaining damage during the move. The last preparatory step is to remove all accessories and bedding, including the mattress, control pendant, trapeze bars, and IV poles. Removing the mattress significantly reduces the overall weight and allows access to the bed frame.
Removing Attached Components
The first stage of physical disassembly involves removing the large, exterior pieces that attach to the main bed frame, primarily the headboard and footboard. These are often the heaviest non-mechanical components and are designed to slide or lift out of mounting slots on the frame’s end sections. Due to the weight and awkward size of these boards, it is highly recommended to have a second person assist with their removal.
Side rails must also be detached, although their mechanism varies widely between models, often involving a pull-pin, lever, or release button near the rail’s attachment point. Once the release mechanism is engaged, the rail system can be lifted straight up or slid horizontally out of its bracket. Some older models may require the removal of screws or wing nuts, which necessitates a basic tool kit. Removing these side components ensures a clear path to the main frame for the final collapse.
Folding and Securing the Frame Mechanism
The core folding process involves collapsing the metal frame after all detachable parts have been removed, transforming the unit into a compact shape. The frame’s folding capability is centered around a hinge mechanism, which is often located near the center of the bed or where the head and foot sections meet. Users must locate the specific folding release pins or lever, which are sometimes color-coded or clearly marked on the underside of the frame. Activating this release mechanism disengages the internal locking system that keeps the bed rigid during use. The most common technique for collapsing the bed is to lift the foot section upward while simultaneously pushing the head section toward the center hinge.
After the frame is fully collapsed, it must be immediately secured to prevent accidental unfolding, which could cause injury or equipment damage. Many folding electric beds include built-in latches, clamps, or straps designed to lock the collapsed sections together. Users should ensure these securing mechanisms are firmly engaged, creating a single, rigid, and safe unit for transport. Even in the folded state, the bed remains a substantial piece of equipment.
Transporting and Storing the Folded Bed
The frame and motor assembly of a folded electric hospital bed can weigh between 150 and 250 pounds, with some full-electric models approaching 300 pounds. Proper lifting techniques, such as bending at the knees and keeping the back straight, are necessary if the unit must be lifted. Using transport straps is highly advisable to distribute the load. Many folded beds have small caster wheels that allow the unit to be rolled for short-distance movement across smooth floors.
If the bed must be transported in a vehicle, it should be loaded carefully, ideally secured upright to prevent shifting, which could strain the hinge points or motors. For long-term storage, the bed should be kept in a cool, dry environment, preferably covered with a tarp or sheet to protect the electrical components and frame from dust and moisture accumulation.