Selecting Bed Safety Rails for Home Hospital Beds

Hospital bed safety rails are used by patients to assist with repositioning and to help getting in and out of bed. 

 

Caregivers must carefully select the appropriate bed rail for the loved one’s age, size, weight and medical condition. 

 

It is important to remember that all hospital bed side rails, frames and mattresses are not interchangeable. 

 

Loose side rails can lead to falls or entrapment injuries.  It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s specifications for installation and maintenance for bed frames and bedside rails to keep loved ones safe. 

 

1. Full-length side rails

 

Family members often believe that full-length side rails will ensure patient safety. However, full-length side rails should not be used to keep confused patients from climbing out of the bed.  

 

Loved ones may attempt to climb over the side rail and suffer severe injuries due to falling from the greater height. Other options are more effective for protecting loved ones from getting out of bed without assistance.

 

Electric high-low beds lower the bed frame to just a few inches above the floor, preventing injury in case the loved one rolls off the mattress.  Floor pads may be placed on either side of the bed as well for added protection. 

 

2. Half-length side rails

 

Upper half-length side rails are used for repositioning and do not prevent loved ones from entering or leaving the bed. They are a convenient location for bed controls and TV remotes to prevent them from falling to the floor. 

 

Solid plastic rails with grip handles are preferred to chrome rungs to reduce the risk of entrapment.  The side rails should be securely mounted to the bed frame to help prevent injuries when loved ones get in and out of the bed. 

 

3. Assist bars

 

Assist bars are similar to half length side rails and are designed to help loved ones get in and out of bed. The narrow shape makes them less helpful for loved ones to reposition themselves in the bed.  

 

Assist bars allow loved ones greater visibility of their surroundings and reduce the feeling of being trapped in the bed. Some assist bars come with storage bags for TV and bed remote controls.  Assist bars must also be securely mounted to the bed frame.

 

4. Entrapment risks 

 

Side rails should never be used as a substitute for careful monitoring of loved ones, especially those at risk of entrapment or falls. 

 

Even though side rails may be perceived as proven safety devices, sprains or broken bones, or strangulation may occur if body parts become wedged between the mattress and side rail. 

 

Gaps between the mattress and side rails can form when loved ones sit or lay on the bed, increasing the risk of injury. 

 

Older model beds with full-length rails, replacement parts and soft mattresses have the highest risks for entrapment.

 

Gap guards, foam bumper pads, and concave mattresses can help reduce the risk of entrapment between the side rails and mattress. 

                                                                                                                                       Photo Resource: FDA

Final Thoughts

 

Caregivers should regularly assess the bed for potential fall and entrapment hazards.

 

Rigid plastic inserts may be placed into bed rail openings to prevent loved ones from inserting arms or legs into them. 

 

Side rails should never be used as a substitute for careful monitoring and supervision of loved ones. Caregivers should always consult with a physician before selecting side rails for home hospital beds. 

 

Learn more About HomeCare Hospital Beds

 

At HomeCare Hospital Beds, we always want you to feel informed before you make a purchase.

 

If you have any doubts on which bed is fit for you, please contact HomeCare Hospital Beds team, so we can help you make the right choice.

 

Call us today toll free at 877-414-0002 or email us at info@homecarehospitalbeds.com.

 

Learn more about Hospital Bed Safety here.

Read our latest Hospital Bed Buying Guide .

Why Would you Need a hospital bed at Home?

Hospital beds are not just for nursing homes and hospitals anymore.  They can be a valuable tool to help keep loved ones at home during periods of recovery or illness.  

 

Sleek designs and various styles of head and footboards look like bedroom furniture.  Modern hospital beds help enable caregivers and loved ones to maintain safety, comfort and independence at home. 

 

Here are 5 benefits of having a hospital bed at home for you and your loved one:

 

1. Easier repositioning for loved ones

Frequent repositioning in bed helps reduce the joint pain and stiffness that comes with laying still for long periods of time. 

 

Shifting body weight helps prevent bed sores from forming, especially on the heels and buttocks. 

 

Adjustable head and foot sections allow for positions that are not easily possible with wedges or pillows. Side rails help prevent falling out of bed during repositioning as well.  

 

2. Adjustable head and foot of the bed

Shortness of breath can be eased by sleeping with the head of the bed elevated.  Electric bed controls allow loved ones to find the most comfortable position and make adjustments as needed.  

 

The head of the bed can easily be elevated for reading, visiting and eating and lowered for sleep.  

 

Staying slightly upright in bed is important for loved ones with difficulty swallowing to help prevent inhaling food or liquids into the lungs.  

 

The head of the bed can also be raised slowly before getting up to prevent dizziness or fainting.

 

 Elevating the foot of the bed relieves leg swelling and helps prevent loved ones from sliding down when the head of the bed is raised. 

 

3. Easier getting in and out of bed

Electric hospital bed frames can be raised and lowered as needed to make it easier for loved ones to get in and out of bed. 

 

The head of the bed can be elevated to reduce the effort needed to sit at the side of the bed.  The bed frame height can be adjusted as needed for sitting and standing.  

 

This is especially important during recovery after hip surgery. Some hospital beds can be lowered so that the bed frame is almost on the floor.  A foam mat can be placed on the floor next to the bed to prevent injury if a loved one rolls out of bed. 

 

4. Protection for caregivers

It is essential for caregivers to protect themselves from back injuries as they care for loved ones. 

 

Hospital bed frame heights can be adjusted to appropriate working heights, allowing caregivers to use safe lifting and transferring techniques.  

 

Loved ones can use side rails and grab bars to assist with repositioning to minimize the effort needed by caregivers. 

 

Overbed tables can be used with hospital beds to help loved ones reach for items and feed themselves.  Locking swivel casters enable caregivers to easily move hospital beds to make room for wheelchairs, walkers and commodes. 

 

5. Helpful accessories

Hospital bed designs allow use of equipment that cannot be attached to regular beds.  A wide variety of side rail designs are available to help loved ones reposition in bed.  

 

Side rails and grab bars make it easier for loved ones to get in and out of bed safely.  Seizure pads can be placed inside side rails to prevent injury.  Trapeze bars can be attached to the headboard and air mattress pumps can be attached to the footboard.  

 

Final thoughts

It is important to always speak with a doctor about specific needs before obtaining a hospital bed for home use.  

We always want you to feel informed before you make a purchase. If you have any doubts that a bed is right for you, please contact HomeCare Hospital Beds team, so we can help you make the right choice.

 

Call us today toll free at 877-414-0002 or email us at info@homecarehospitalbeds.com.

 

Need help finding a home hospital bed?

 

Read our latest Hospital Bed Buying Guide.

 

How To Choose a Hospital Bed for Home Care

 

Hospital beds come in a wide variety of styles, designs and sizes to meet the needs of loved ones at home. Special attention should be taken to ensure that hospital bed features closely match the needs of loved ones. It is important to make a list of which hospital bed features are most important in order to choose wisely and stay within budget.

Here are 5 things to consider when choosing a hospital bed for home. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Final Thoughts

Choosing a hospital bed for a loved one is never an easy task. To make the right choice you’ll have to consider your loved one’s needs, the bed’s safety and positioning features, available bed accessories and affordability. It is important to always speak with a doctor about specific needs before obtaining a hospital bed for home use.

We always want you to feel informed before you make a purchase. If you have any doubts that a bed is right for you, please contact HomeCare Hospital Beds team, so we can help you make the right choice.

Call us at 877-414-0002 or email us at info@homecarehospitalbeds.com.

 

Need help finding a home hospital bed? Read our latest Hospital Bed Buying Guide.

3 Signs That You or Your Loved One May Be Ready for a Mobility Aid

 

The CDC reports that about 40.7 million adults struggle with mobility challenges which could seriously impact a person’s ability to live an independent life.  

Here are 3 things to look out for when you’re deciding if a mobility aid is right for you or your loved one.

 

What are Mobility Aids?

Mobility aids are devices that are designed to assist people who have trouble moving around, enjoy their freedom and independence.

 Most people are familiar with manual and power wheelchairs along with electric scooters, however, there is a large range of mobility devices to meet people’s needs including advanced options such as patient lifts. Other common mobility aids include: rollators, walkers, canes, crutches and many more.   

 

3 Signs That It’s Time to Consider a Mobility Aid

 

People want to maintain independence and be self-sufficient for as long as possible.  When bringing up a mobility aid, a person may feel embarrassed  or feel a loss of independence for relying on a cane or wheelchair.  

Luckily, there are many options out there to consider to help an individual in this situation.  

 

1. Frequent Falls

 

Falls unfortunately, are a common occurrence.  According to the National Council of Aging, 1 in 4 Americans, who are 65 and older, fall each year.  A growing number of older adults fear falling which could limit their day-to-day activities.  If you or a loved one has experienced a big fall, then it may be time to consider a wheelchair, walker, or scooter.

 

2. Difficulty Walking

 

Certain factors such as age, medical conditions or injuries can cause weakness or fatigue when walking.  If your loved one is experiencing pain from walking short distances, there are solutions available that can ease that pain and still allow you, or your loved one, to lead an independent life.

 

3. Balance Problems

 

We all lose balance or feel unsteady at some point, but some individuals may not notice they are having difficulty with their balance on a continuous basis.  The National Institute on Aging recommends asking yourself these questions:

• • Do I feel unsteady?
  • Do I feel as if the room is spinning around me, even only for brief periods of time?
  • Do I feel as if I’m moving when I know I’m standing or sitting still?
  • Do I lose my balance and fall?
  • Do I feel lightheaded, or as if I might faint?
  • Does my vision become blurred?
  • Do I ever feel disoriented, losing my sense of time, place, or identity?

If you answered “yes” then the website urges adults to consult with their doctors. The use of mobility aids such as canes and walkers can help with improving stability and movement before experiencing a big fall resulting in injury.

 

Decision to Use Mobility Aids

 

The goal of a mobility aid is to assist in increasing independence and help individuals maintain their current lifestyle.  Luckily, there are many options out there to consider to help an individual who feels it might be time to explore a mobility option.

Taking steps to improve an individual’s safety and mobility are turning points for many families.  Anyone considering a new mobility aid should consult with their doctor or physical therapist to find out which solution will work best for their lifestyle and fit their needs.

Always consult with a professional before purchasing a mobility aid to learn what works best for your loved one’s situation.   

Feel that it may be time to consider a Mobility Aid? Click here to shop our selection.

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5 Things to Look for in a Bedwetting Mattress

What is incontinence?

Contrary to popular belief, bedwetting isn’t something only little kids experience. Studies show that 2% of adults have lost the ability to control urination during the night. 

Replacing a soaked mattress can be expensive, embarrassing, and time consuming! That’s why our experts are here to help.

Here are the top 5 things to look for when choosing a bedwetting mattress from over 2 decades of experience:

 

1) Waterproof Mattress Cover

A waterproof mattress cover is a necessity to protect the foam or core of your mattress.

A heavy duty vinyl mattress cover will keep the mattress core free from coming into contact with urine and other body fluids.  Extended exposure to bodily fluids causes your mattress to stink, build bacteria and need to be replaced!

Waterproof mattress covers provide a waterproof air-vapor layer that stops fluids from penetrating the core. The best waterproof mattress covers have inverted seams to keep fluids out!

 

2) Short Term vs. Long Term

The decision to purchase a waterproof mattress depends on the amount of time you think you might need one.  Any parent with a child that wets the bed may want to start by considering a short term solution, such as a waterproof mattress cover.  

If you want to keep the mattress that you currently have, make sure that you pick a heavy duty vinyl cover that will provide complete protection. A waterproof mattress cover is a temporary solution and cost effective! Most waterproof mattress covers begin at $51.50. 

Any person suffering from long term incontinence or chronic bedwetting might want to consider a more durable and comfortable option such as a waterproof mattress. If you are interested in purchasing a mattress specifically designed to withstand incontinence and bedwetting, consider the Standard Incontinence Mattress or SaniSnooze Sky Mattress.

This waterproof mattress can be delivered to your door for $159.50. A Standard Incontinence mattress will hold up against constant use and will provide great support for you or your loved ones.

 

3) Ease of Cleaning

Living with incontinence means you will need to clean and sanitize your mattress or cover daily, and multiple times per day in some cases. No one wants a mattress that can be a nightmare to clean and dry. 

An added layer of protection doesn’t hurt when you want to block liquids. A vinyl mattress cover is very easy to clean and all it takes is a wipe down with soap and water.  

Incontinence mattresses are designed to keep accidents away from the foam core.  Simply wipe clean with a mild disinfectant and you’re ready to go!

Parents or caregivers looking for a cleaner changing process will love reusable underpads.    These incontinence pads are very durable and can withstand being washed over and over again.

The best part about reusable underpads are they are made of a soft cozy cotton material that is extremely comfortable while featuring a waterproof interior layer that does not allow liquids to reach your mattress. 

 

4) Budget

You might think that purchasing a waterproof mattress or cover is extremely expensive.  However, you can purchase many different cost-effective and waterproof options depending on your budget. A zippered, waterproof mattress cover is a great affordable option starting at $35. 

Mattress covers are a good solution if you or your child are experiencing occasional bedwetting. Mattress covers are a great way to extend the life of your mattress and keep it dry and free from fluids. After all, replacing a mattress can be expensive and removing lingering odors is not easy. 

There are many urine-resistant solutions for those suffering from chronic incontinence. Choosing the best product for your needs should not be determined by cost however more than likely it will be a deciding factor. Typically, you can find a waterproof incontinence mattress from $159.50 up to $1,000 depending on your needs.  

5) Comfort

With any mattress, comfort and protection is something that is very important for your body.  Most waterproof mattresses are made with high density foam that provides exceptional comfort and are available in multiple comfort levels.

The Standard Incontinence Mattress would be a perfect option for a child dealing with temporary nighttime bedwetting. For adults suffering from temporary incontinence the Plus Incontinence Mattress will be a great choice. The SaniSnooze Cloud Mattress is ideal for those suffering from chronic incontinence.

This mattress features memory foam that provides extraordinary pressure redistribution, ultimate comfort and all night protection. 

 

What do I do next?

We know that choosing a waterproof mattress for you or a loved one is not an easy task.  We always want you to feel informed before you make a purchase.  If you have any doubts that a mattress isn’t right for you, please contact us so we can help you make the right choice. Call us today toll free at 877-414-0002 or email us at info@homecarehospitalbeds.com.  

 

For more information check out our website at www.homecarehospitalbeds.com.

Choosing an Invacare Hospital Bed for Home Care

Do you or a loved one need the best hospital bed for home care?  Choosing one can be quite overwhelming! Our hospital bed experts are here to help. They have created a list of the best Invacare hospital beds for home.

Here’s who made the list:

 

Top Choice – Best Hospital Bed for Home:

INVACARE CARROLL CS9 FX600 HOSPITAL BED SET

The Invacare Carroll CS9 FX600 Hospital Bed Set has already become the industry standard for long-term care beds. The CS9 bed has an Integrated Width Extender which gives you the option of widening the bed an additional 6 inches. With an Auto Contour feature that simultaneously raises both the head and the knees, residents stay comfortably in place while being better positioned for reading, watching TV or talking to family members. The simultaneous movement also helps prevent painful skin shearing that might otherwise occur during repositioning. The CS9 also features a Slat Deck which is an upgrade from the Grid Deck that most of the entry level frames have and provides better support and airflow for the mattress. The Invacare CS9 is the ideal bed with it’s stability, easy controls and smooth raising and lowering of the head, feet and overall height of the bed.

 

Best Value Hospital Bed for Home:

INVACARE SC900 DLX LOW HOSPITAL BED SET

The Invacare SC900 DLX Low Hospital Bed is a full-function, full-feature, low-height bed that promotes quality resident care with full bed performance. Its three DC motors provide ultra-quiet operation of the head, hi-low and foot functions of the bed. Plus, the horizontal travel range of the SC900DLX is designed so that the bed will not damage walls during height adjustments.

 

Favorite Affordable Hospital Bed for Home:

INVACARE CARROLL CS7 HI-LOW HOSPITAL BED SET

The Invacare Carroll CS7 Hi-Low Hospital Bed has already become the industry standard for long-term care hospital beds. With an Auto Contour feature that simultaneously raises both the head and the knees, residents stay comfortably in place while being better positioned for reading, watching TV or talking to family members. The simultaneous movement also helps prevent painful skin shearing that might otherwise occur during repositioning. The CS7 Hospital Bed also features a Slat Deck which is an upgrade from the Grid Deck that most of the entry level frames have and provides better support and airflow for the mattress. The Invacare CS7 is the ideal bed with it’s stability, easy controls and smooth raising and lowering of the head, feet and overall height of the bed.

 

Final Thoughts

Our in home hospital bed experts have narrowed down our top 3 selections as some of the best hospital beds on the market. While each bed featured is considered the top in their class, the  Invacare Carroll CS9 Hospital Bed Set is the top of the line winner. It is the industry standard for long-term in home hospital beds, thanks to its multiple customizing options, auto repositioning capabilities and stability. If you want to find out more about some of the best mattresses we offer you can take a look at our catalog here.

 

Need help finding a home hospital bed? Read our latest Hospital Bed Buying Guide .

The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only. NEVER DISREGARD PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY SEEKING MEDICAL TREATMENT BECAUSE OF SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ ON OR ACCESSED THROUGH THIS WEB SITE.

Buy or Rent?

 

This is the question: Should you buy or rent a hospital bed for home? It really depends on your situation, there are benefits to both.

 

If you or a loved one have recently undergone a life change that would require the use of an at-home hospital bed, then you may be considering whether it’s better to rent or buy a hospital bed. 

Here are a few pros and cons to consider when deciding if you should buy or rent a hospital bed.

 

Pros of Buying a Hospital Bed

 

Long-Term Savings

One thing to always consider when choosing a bed is how long you expect the bed will be used for. Long-term rentals work out to be a lot more costly than buying a hospital bed.  The upfront cost of buying the bed can be burdensome, but many hospital bed dealers offer financing such as HomeCare Hospital Beds. 

If you own the hospital bed, you also have the option on selling the hospital bed to recoup some of the upfront costs when you’re finished with it.

 

Customize the right bed to fit your needs

Buying a hospital bed gives you the option to customize the features you need.  Most rental beds are manual beds that utilize a hand crank. Make sure to consider who will be operating the bed, who will be the primary caregiver and what their abilities are too!

Click here to read our Hospital Bed Buying Guide to help you choose the right features!

 

Quality & Comfort

When you buy a custom hospital bed, you have complete ownership.  You can customize the features or choose additional options such as side rails, inside (white glove) delivery, an extended service warranty, or an advanced mattress and more!  

 

Cons of Buying a Hospital Bed

 

Upfront Cost

Even with the affordable options that are available, purchasing a bed usually means you’ll have to pay upfront. As a solution, some companies such as HomeCare Hospital Beds offer financing for people who qualify to help with this situation.

You’ll also want to consider what you would do if your hospital bed needs repair. There are certain hospital beds that are more suitable for hospitals  because they require more maintenance. Make sure when you’re shopping for a hospital bed for home, that you ask what kind of routine maintenance your bed requires! Many beds are designed for home users and require little to no service. You also want to purchase a bed from a reliable source that can assist you with a repair if necessary.

 

Pros of Renting a Hospital Bed

 

Short-term Use

Renting a hospital bed for your home is an ideal solution for individuals who don’t expect to use a hospital bed for more than a month or two.  If you expect a quick recovery then renting a bed for a short amount of time is usually covered by insurance. 

 

Stretch the Cost

Another benefit of renting is that you don’t have to pay the full cost upfront.  Hospital Beds can be costly and renting can break up the cost into monthly affordable payments. 

 

Cons of Renting a Hospital Bed

 

Quality Concerns

Usually hospital beds that are rented are manual, not electric. So it’s important to take into consideration who will be the primary caretaker and whether or not they’re able to operate a manual bed.

Hospital bed rentals may not always come in the best condition or be the right bed for you.  Rentals have been used by numerous people and as a result there’s a possibility of a break down with that additional wear and tear. 

Germ Concerns

Just like when you stay at a hotel, sharing a bed can mean coming into contact with other people’s germs. However, when you share a hospital bed, those germs can sometimes be more dangerous pathogens. 

If you or a loved one is immunocompromised, it’s even more important to consider whether or not renting is the right decision for you. For example, C. difficile can survive on surfaces for up to 5 months, and can be deadly. MRSA can survive on surfaces for weeks! Always inquire which disinfectant is being used by the bed rental company and ask about their cleaning process! 

Higher Long-Term Costs

Renting can be the less expensive option when a hospital bed is only needed for a short amount of time, but if you’re planning on having the bed for a significant period of time, you’re likely to spend more money to rent a bed than buying a new hospital bed.  On average it can cost $200 – $500 a month to rent a hospital bed for home.  

 Final Thoughts

In the end, buying or renting a hospital bed depends on your specific situation.  Always keep in mind not only the patient’s abilities, but the caregiver’s as well.  

If you have any questions on which hospital bed is right for you, please contact us so we can help you make the right choice.

 

Call us today!   877-414-0002 

 

 

The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only. NEVER DISREGARD PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY SEEKING MEDICAL TREATMENT BECAUSE OF SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ ON OR ACCESSED THROUGH THIS WEB SITE.

What is the Best Hospital Bed for Home Use?

 

Choosing a hospital bed for your home can be a complicated process with so many options and features to choose from.

There are many options available on the market such as  Low Beds, Bariatric Beds, Semi-Electric Beds, and Full-Electric Beds.

 

It is difficult to decide which in home hospital bed is the best fit for you or a loved one.

 

For instance, when a patient leaves a hospital and requires home care, the hospital will be asked for recommendations and suggestions.

 

This can be problematic as medical professionals tend to recommend products they are familiar with. Those of which are typically more advanced than the patient requires.

 

Here are a few things to consider to decide which in home hospital bed will fit your needs.

 

How to Choose Which Bed is Right for Me

 

Buying a hospital bed does not have to be such a confusing process. It should only require answering a few basic questions:

 

How old is the patient?

 

The first step to choosing a hospital bed is considering the age of the patient. If the patient is older it can often be difficult getting out of bed. They have a higher risk of falling.

 

A low bed offers the convenience of height adjustment and makes getting out of bed easier for the patient and caregiver.

 

Can I get in and out of bed alone?

 

If yes, then a Semi-Electric Bed or a Low Hospital Bed would be your best choice.

 

If no, then a Full-Electric Bed is recommended along with a Pressure Redistribution Mattress. Pressure Redistribution Mattresses can help prevent bedsores or pressure ulcers.

 

Final Thoughts

 

In conclusion, there are many other factors to consider when trying to customize a bed for your home.

 

We know that choosing a bed for yourself or a loved one can be a stressful task.  We want to help you make the process as simple as possible.

 

HomeCare Hospital Beds offers many options for at home care whether it be hospital beds, hospital bed mattresses or other home care accessories.

 

If you would like additional help or reassurance that your choice is best suited for you or your patient, check out our hospital bed  Buying Guide or give us a call at 877-414-0002!

 

 

The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only. NEVER DISREGARD PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY SEEKING MEDICAL TREATMENT BECAUSE OF SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ ON OR ACCESSED THROUGH THIS WEB SITE.