Most of us think about “medical” equipment like supplies, etc. A modern home hospital bed provides much, much more than that. They provide dignity, independence, and everyday physical relief for the patients. With many choices available, it could be quite difficult to navigate them as a family. Should we rent a bed or buy a bed? What kind of costs are involved with renting vs. purchasing a bed? In order to find the right solution for your individual needs, you will need to compare hospital bed rental vs. purchasing based on your own situations.

Below is an overview of how an adjustable bed provides greater comfort to patients on a regular basis and in the long run.

Physically, the Benefits of an Adjustable Support System

Flat mattresses do not provide enough support for the body as it heals. The flatness of mattresses causes pressure points that lead to sore areas. An adjustable bed allows for precise placement of a patient’s body.

Reduction of Pressure Points

Being stuck in the same position for hours can cause great discomfort. An adjustable frame helps redistribute a patient’s weight.

Head Elevation Provides Improved Respiratory Function

Placing a patient at an approximate 30-45 degree angle above the base of their bed improves respiratory function and takes pressure off their lower back.

Gravity-Assisted Circulation (Trendelenburg)

This form of positioning uses gravity to assist lower-limb circulation.

Redistribution of Body Weight Takes Pressure Off Lower Back and Hip Area

Changing angles to reposition a patient redistributes pressure. Patients feel less stiff after changing their bed position.

Improves Respiratory Function/Gastrointestinal/Esophageal Health

Sleeping flat can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as COPD and acid reflux. Changing the position of the upper part of a patient’s body while they are resting at night alleviates these issues.

Open Airway During Sleep

Elevating the head section of a patient’s bed creates space in their airways to breathe normally during sleep.

Promotes Smooth Digestion After Meals

Similarly, elevating the top part of a patient’s body facilitates smooth digestion after meals. Gravity aids in food exiting the stomach naturally.

Decrease Cough Frequency at Night

Individuals experiencing frequent coughing episodes reported that adjusting the angle of their upper body decreased coughing episodes at night.

Better Long-Term Restfulness

Simply adjusting the angle of a patient’s bed contributes to better long-term restfulness.

Advantages to Family Caregivers

Just as patients benefit from comfort, caregivers also reap benefits. A working bed allows caregivers to perform their duties more easily on themselves and patients.

Less Stressful Experience for Caregivers

High-low beds eliminate caregiver back strain while lifting patients from lying down positions. Easy-to-use hand pendants lessen the physical exertion required to manually turn cranks. Central locking casters hold the bed steady and prevent movement. Side rails drop rapidly allowing caregivers to get closer to patients while giving them care.

Benefits to Both Patients and Their Family Caregivers

In addition to protecting patients and family caregivers from potential harm/injuries from substandard-quality equipment, maintaining a functional environment that limits interruptions makes caring for patients safer and easier.

Conclusions

Home hospital beds serve more than merely clinical purposes. Home hospital beds enable independence, promote safety and comfort for caregivers and daily comfort for patients. Regardless if you choose to rent for a short-time or decide to purchase a permanent solution, choosing the right bed arrangement will improve lives.

Consider your timeline and explore locally applicable options and select an appropriate option that promotes health for your loved one.