The piece of furniture used for patient examinations in a doctor’s office is a familiar sight, often covered in a crinkly paper sheet. This specialized furniture provides a stable platform necessary for a thorough physical assessment. It is designed specifically to facilitate the close inspection and diagnostic procedures required in a medical setting.
The Standard Terminology
The device commonly referred to as the “bed” in a doctor’s office is officially known as an Examination Table or, in some regions, an Examination Couch. This terminology reflects its core purpose as a working surface, distinguishing it from a “bed” used for long-term rest. The table is designed to securely position the patient for a short duration while a clinician performs an assessment or minor procedure.
These tables are constructed to provide a stable and comfortable surface, allowing the patient to be positioned supine (lying on the back) or seated for various tests. The firm, padded surface ensures patient comfort while offering the necessary rigidity for accurate palpation and diagnostic work.
Essential Design Elements
A characteristic feature of the Examination Table is the disposable paper roll system, mounted either at the head or foot end. This paper acts as a simple, single-use barrier, pulled over the padded surface for each new patient to maintain strict hygiene standards and prevent cross-contamination. Furthermore, the table’s upholstery is typically made from non-porous materials like vinyl or polyurethane, which can withstand repeated cleaning with hospital-grade disinfectants.
Many standard tables incorporate built-in storage drawers beneath the padded surface, often called a “box” table design. These cabinets provide immediate access to frequently used supplies, such as gloves and instruments. Most general-purpose examination tables also feature an articulated backrest that can be adjusted to position the patient from a flat-lying to an inclined or seated position. This adjustability allows for a broader range of examinations, including those requiring the patient to be partially upright, such as checking reflexes or listening to the heart and lungs.
Specialized Examination Tables
While general practitioners use a standard Examination Table, the design is often adapted for specific medical specialties, leading to a variety of specialized models. For example, in obstetrics and gynecology, the table transforms into a procedure chair equipped with retractable stirrups and a pelvic cutout section. This modification allows the patient to be positioned correctly for pelvic examinations and women’s health procedures.
Physical therapy and chiropractic offices often utilize a different kind of table, sometimes called a treatment table. These tables may be wider and segmented into multiple adjustable sections, often featuring motorized height adjustment, known as “hi-low” functionality. This allows the surface to be lowered to chair height for easy patient transfer.
Pediatric examination tables are another variant, frequently shorter and lower. They sometimes feature colorful designs or integrated scales to make the experience less intimidating for children while ensuring safety and ease of measurement.