What Are the Different Types of Hospital Beds?

​Bringing a hospital bed into your home, either temporarily or permanently, is a big decision. Learn about the different types of hospital beds now.

Many people need medical equipment at some point during their lives. Some of this medical equipment is smaller, such as canes, while some is bigger, such as hospital beds. Knowing your options when considering types of medical equipment is important. When it comes to hospital beds, you need to know the different types. We’ve provided some helpful descriptions below so you can make the best choice for your situation.

Manual Hospital Bed

The first type of hospital bed you’ll hear about is the manual kind. Manual hospital beds don’t need electricity to function since you adjust them with a hand crank. While many people enjoy the freedom of placing the bed wherever they want, not necessarily near a wall outlet, some people struggle with the hand crank. If the person using the bed isn’t strong or agile enough to adjust the bed, then they will need someone to help them. Adding this extra layer of dependence is frustrating for some users, but some don’t mind or don’t need the help.

Semi-Electric Hospital Bed

A semi-electric hospital bed improves upon the design of manual hospital beds. While the user will still need to raise or lower the bed by hand, they can adjust the head and feet sections electronically. Since many people set the bed height once and rarely need to adjust it again, this bed gives people with less upper body strength and flexibility more freedom. It’s also helpful for caregivers since they know the person using the bed can adjust their body and get comfortable without help.

Full Electric Hospital Bed

Everything on a fully electric hospital bed is motorized so the person in the bed can make changes with a control. They can raise and lower the entire bed or adjust specific sections of the bed as needed, creating perfect independence. Some do have safeguard features that allow someone to prevent certain position changes that may endanger the bed user, so caregivers don’t have to worry about the bed user accidentally hurting themselves. While these beds are often more expensive, the level of independence is often worth the price, especially if the user is buying instead of renting the bed.

Specialty Hospital Beds

In addition to the three main types of hospital beds listed above, there are also specialty beds. You can find bariatric or heavy-duty hospital beds that can accommodate larger, heavier users if necessary. There are also acute care beds for people who need more intensive medical care while using a hospital bed. If you’re looking to buy a hospital bed to use long term, you can find comfortable ones that are more aesthetically pleasing than traditional hospital beds. Choosing the right hospital bed for your situation is an important decision, so consider these specialty beds along with the various bed types.

Knowing the different types of hospital beds gives you a better idea of which hospital bed is best for your situation. If you’re looking for hospital beds in Houston so you can stay comfortable despite your current medical situation, Rice Village Medical Supply can help you. We provide various types of hospital beds, including specialty beds, so you can find the perfect one for you.