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The Importance of Bariatric Hospital Beds

When it comes to patient care, having the right equipment is essential. Bariatric patients, for example, require a specialized type of hospital bed that can accommodate larger sizes and weights. These hospital beds help ensure that bariatric patients stay safe and comfortable during their recovery. In this article, we will discuss the features and benefits of bariatric hospital beds. 

Why Do Hospitals Need Bariatric Beds?

Because patients spend so much time in hospital beds during their stay—about 83% of their time, in fact—it is important that these pieces of equipment are comfortable and safe. If a bariatric patient is placed on a bed that does not accommodate their size or weight, they may be at an increased risk of injury, have difficulty repositioning, or experience sleep deprivation due to discomfort. Using an inadequately sized bed also increases the risk of injury for healthcare workers attempting to move or reposition the patient. Thus, patients who are larger in size or weight require specialized hospital beds to ensure their comfort and safety.

Features and Benefits of Bariatric Hospital Beds 

When caring for larger patients, it is important to choose a hospital bed that is designed to accommodate their specific needs. Bariatric beds offer higher weight capacities, increased widths, expanded adjustment options, and durable construction, helping facilitate a safe, comfortable hospital stay. 

• Weight Capacity: One of the most significant differences between a bariatric bed and a regular hospital bed is the weight capacity. Bariatric beds are specifically designed to hold the weight of larger patients, boasting weight capacities of up to 1,000 lbs.  
• Width: Bariatric hospital beds are also wider than standard hospital beds, accommodating wider patients and providing additional space for the patient to maneuver. This also allows patients to move around without fear of the bed breaking or tipping over.  
• Bed Positions: Bariatric hospital beds are equipped with multiple bed positions to ensure that the patient's comfort level is always met. This feature is especially crucial for bariatric patients as they may have difficulty moving around, enabling patients and caregivers to easily change the position of the bed.  
• Height Adjustment: Bariatric beds can be lowered closer to the ground, making it easier for patients to get in or out of bed. This feature is vital for patients who are obese or have mobility issues. By lowering the bed, the risk of accidents or falls is minimized, making it easier for both the patient and hospital staff to manage patient transfers.  
• Durable Construction: Bariatric beds are designed to be more robust and durable than regular hospital beds. The frame of the bed is often made of durable materials such as steel or aluminum, allowing the bed to withstand the added weight of bariatric patients. 

Bariatric hospital beds are crucial in ensuring that larger patients stay safe and comfortable during their stay. These beds also offer peace of mind to the hospital staff, minimizing injury risk when caring for patients and enabling them to provide the best possible care.