Moving a hospital bed requires careful planning and specialized techniques to ensure the safety of both the equipment and the individuals involved. The process varies depending on whether the relocation is a short distance or involves long-distance transportation requiring partial disassembly. Due to their physical size and complex mechanical and electrical components, specific safety protocols are necessary.
Essential Safety Checks Before Moving
Before any physical movement begins, disconnect the bed from its power source by unplugging all cords from the wall outlet. This prevents potential electrical shorts or motor damage if the mechanism is accidentally activated during transit. Remove all removable accessories, such as mattress overlays, IV poles, or trapeze bars, to prevent them from shifting or becoming damaged.
Secure the side rails in their lowered position, or fully remove them if the model allows, to narrow the bed’s profile. Bundle the control pendant and any power cables and secure them to the frame using zip ties or tape. This prevents them from dragging or getting caught under the wheels.
A clear pathway is mandatory, so remove any area rugs, loose cables, or small furniture items that could obstruct the casters. Confirm the wheel locks (brakes) are functioning correctly by engaging and disengaging each caster brake before releasing them for movement. This pre-check ensures the braking system is reliable before the bed is put into motion.
Techniques for Relocating an Intact Bed
Moving an assembled hospital bed requires proper body mechanics, as these frames can weigh hundreds of pounds. Push the bed from the footboard end, using the large muscle groups of the legs and keeping the back straight, rather than pulling or twisting the torso. Steer the bed by applying gentle, steady pressure in the desired direction, utilizing the swivel function of the casters.
Maintain a slow, deliberate pace, as sudden stops or turns can stress the frame and internal mechanisms. This deliberate movement allows the casters time to swivel and align with the direction of travel, reducing the risk of wheel chatter or binding.
For safety and control, it is highly recommended to have a second person assist with the relocation, especially when navigating longer hallways or uneven flooring. One person can push from the footboard while the second person guides the headboard. This teamwork provides better visibility and control over the bed’s large footprint.
Navigating doorways requires precision, as standard hospital beds often have widths close to or exceeding the door frame dimensions. If the bed’s height adjustment mechanism is electrical, temporarily lower the bed deck to its lowest setting to clear the door jamb. This temporary height reduction minimizes the chance of scraping or damaging the top rails or headboard.
When approaching a tight corner, guide the bed past the turn slightly before initiating the pivot, utilizing the space available for the bed’s length. This technique allows the wheels to follow the curve smoothly without requiring excessive force. Once the bed is in its new location, immediately engage all caster locks to prevent unintended movement.
Preparing the Bed for Transport or Storage
For long-distance transport or extended storage, the bed must be partially or fully disassembled to save space and protect vulnerable parts. Begin by detaching the headboard and footboard, which often slide out of their mounting brackets after releasing a simple locking pin or lever. These large panels should be wrapped in padding, such as moving blankets, to protect their surfaces from scratches during transit.
Many modern hospital beds are designed to separate into two main frame components, the deck and the base, which significantly reduces the overall length and weight for lifting. Consult the bed’s specific manual for instructions on separating the frame, as this often involves releasing specialized locking mechanisms or bolts. Proper disassembly ensures the structural integrity of the frame remains intact.
Some older or heavy-duty models may require basic hand tools, such as an adjustable wrench or a Phillips head screwdriver, to remove certain bolted components. Keep all removed hardware, including bolts, washers, and pins, organized in a clearly labeled sealable plastic bag. Labeling the hardware immediately prevents confusion during reassembly.
The electronic control boxes and motor actuators located beneath the bed deck are the most vulnerable parts. Secure any dangling wires or control cables directly to the frame using non-residue painter’s tape or cable ties. This prevents the delicate wiring harnesses from being stretched, crimped, or severed during loading and unloading.
Pay particular attention to the plastic or metal housing of the motors; these should not be used as lifting points during transport. The mattress should be rolled or folded according to the manufacturer’s directions and wrapped separately. Before loading, create a simple inventory list of all detached components.
Final Setup and Functional Testing
Upon reaching the final location, secure the main frame components together, reversing the breakdown process. Once the bed frame is fully reconnected, ensure it is positioned on a firm, level surface to guarantee the proper function of the motors and gravity-dependent mechanisms. An unlevel bed can put undue strain on the actuator shafts.
Plug the bed directly into a dedicated wall outlet, avoiding extension cords or power strips to ensure a stable electrical current. Before testing, inspect all cables for signs of pinching or damage that may have occurred during transport.
Conduct a full functional test by operating every control feature on the pendant, including raising and lowering the entire bed height, and adjusting the head and foot sections. Listen for any unusual noises, such as grinding or clicking, which might indicate a mechanical issue from the move. Once all functions are confirmed operational and the bed is in its desired final position, firmly engage all caster locks to prevent accidental rolling.