Bariatric Hospital Beds
When choosing a hospital bed for home use there are a few things that you will need to consider. If the hospital bed is for an overweight patient then bariatric hospital beds may be needed. These are specifically designed to be more durable and support more weight than traditional hospital beds. They allow the overweigh patient to be much more comfortable and provide a number of other benefits as well.
Weight Capacities
Bariatric hospital beds again are designed specifically to support those who are overweight. The specific weight capacity that a bed can handle will depend on the bed itself. Different models and different manufacturers may have varying weight capacities. On average, a bariatric hospital bed can support up to 600 pounds with no trouble. Many higher end models can hold up to 700 pounds or more. If you are concerned about the specific weight capacity you should take the time to look at a few different models and choose the one that offers the weight capabilities that you need.
Electric and Manual Choices
Most bariatric beds today are electric. This means that the adjustments for comfort as well as the height of the bed itself are controlled by a small motor located under the bed. In order to adjust the bed you simply push the appropriate button and the motor does the work. Electric bariatric hospital beds are typically designed with more durable motors to handle the extra weight capacity. Manual beds may also be available which allow you to adjust the height and varying comfort levels of the bed using a manual crank. It is important to note that if you or someone in the home is not physically able to adjust the bed then an electric model is a much better choice. They allow caregivers the ability to tend to the overweight patient without having to lift and turn the patient by hand. They also allow the patient to adjust the bed to their specific comfort level without help from anyone else in the home.
Where to Find Bariatric Hospital Beds
Bariatric hospital beds can be purchased through a number of home health medical equipment suppliers. They are not as easily found as traditional hospital beds however so you may have to spend a bit of time searching. The internet is the best place to begin. You will find many manufacturers and medical equipment retailers that offer bariatric beds for home use when you search online. Ensure that you are purchasing from a reputable dealer or manufacturer to be certain that you are getting a quality bed that will be as durable as it claims to be.
Overall, bariatric hospital beds allow you to ensure that overweight patients are completely comfortable and provide much easier access for the patient to get into and out of bed. They come in varying different levels of weight capacity and costs so be sure that you take the time to research a few different models before you choose a specific model to purchase.