Illustrative picture. We confirm the exact model with your price.
Adjustable hospital bed
Manual or electric bed with adjustable head and knee sections and side rails.
Good forBed-bound or frail people
- Price and delivery confirmed first
- A nurse can advise before you buy
- Set-up help when it is needed
What it is, and who it helps
A hospital bed has an adjustable head and knee section, and often adjustable height, so that a person can sit up to eat, breathe or watch television, and a carer can work without bending. It is used for people who spend most of the day in bed, or who need nursing at home.
Manual beds use a hand crank; electric beds use a handset. Beds can often be rented by the month, which suits recovery and uncertain needs.
How to choose
- Decide between manual and electric: electric is easier for the person and carer but depends on power.
- Check the bed height range, which should suit the carer and let the person's feet touch the floor when sitting.
- Choose side rails if needed for safety, and a mattress suited to pressure care.
- Check room space and doorway width for delivery, and whether setup and removal are included.
Using it safely
- Lock the wheels once the bed is in position, and keep the bed low when the person is alone.
- Use side rails only as advised, and check for gaps in which a limb or head could become trapped.
- Keep power cables out of the way, and have a plan for power cuts.
Before you buy
Does a hospital bed need a prescription?
Not usually, but a nurse or doctor should advise on the type. We will ask a few questions before supplying.
More in Beds, mattresses and rest · Care plans · Services · Medical equipment at home · Caring for geriatric patients
General information, not medical advice. Ask a doctor, nurse or physiotherapist what is right for your parent.
Not sure this is the right one?
A nurse can suggest the right choice, arrange delivery and show how to use it.