How to Adjust an Electric Hospital Bed

To adjust an electric hospital bed, use the handheld control pendant which typically has buttons to raise or lower the head, foot, and overall bed height; press the appropriate button on the control to move the desired section of the bed to your desired position; most beds will have up and down arrows indicating the direction of movement. 

Electric hospital beds are essential medical devices designed to enhance patient comfort, assist caregivers, and improve overall healthcare efficiency. Whether used in hospitals, nursing homes, or home care settings, knowing how to properly adjust an electric hospital bed is crucial for patient safety and ease of use. In this guide, we will explain how to adjust an electric hospital bed from a manufacturer's perspective, incorporating key industry insights and best practices.

1. Understanding the Components of an Electric Hospital Bed

Before adjusting an electric hospital bed, it is essential to understand its key components:

Bed Frame: The base structure that supports the mattress and adjustable sections.

Head and Foot Sections: Adjustable areas that provide patient comfort and positioning support.

Side Rails: Safety features that prevent falls and assist in patient mobility.

Control Panel or Remote Control: User-friendly interface for bed adjustments.

Actuators and Motors: Mechanical components responsible for smooth and precise movements.

2. Using the Handheld Remote or Control Panel

Most electric hospital beds come with an intuitive handheld remote control or an integrated control panel attached to the bed frame. The control system allows users to:

Raise or lower the entire bed height for better caregiver access.

Adjust the head section to support an upright or reclining position.

Elevate the foot section to reduce swelling and improve circulation.

Enable Trendelenburg and Reverse Trendelenburg positions for specialized medical needs.

3. Adjusting the Bed Height for Patient and Caregiver Safety

Electric hospital beds feature height-adjustable settings to ensure patient safety and caregiver convenience:

Lower the bed when the patient is getting in or out to prevent falls.

Raise the bed to a comfortable working height for caregivers when performing medical procedures or routine care.

Ensure the bed is set to a stable height when locked in place to prevent instability.

4. Positioning the Head and Foot Sections for Maximum Comfort

Proper positioning of the head and foot sections is essential for patient comfort and medical benefits:

Head Elevation: Helps with breathing issues, acid reflux, and patient feeding.

Leg Elevation: Reduces swelling and enhances circulation, beneficial for post-surgery recovery.

Zero Gravity Positioning: Distributes weight evenly, reducing pressure points and enhancing comfort.

5. Utilizing Trendelenburg and Reverse Trendelenburg Positions

Many advanced electric hospital beds offer Trendelenburg and Reverse Trendelenburg functionalities:

Trendelenburg Position: The bed tilts so the patient's head is lower than their feet, often used for circulatory or respiratory therapy.

Reverse Trendelenburg Position: The bed tilts in the opposite direction, elevating the head to assist patients with breathing difficulties or reducing pressure on certain body areas.

6. Adjusting Side Rails for Safety and Accessibility

Raise the side rails when the patient is resting to prevent accidental falls.

Lower one or both side rails when assisting patients in and out of bed.

Ensure side rails are securely locked in place after adjustments.

7. Ensuring Proper Mattress Compatibility

For optimal comfort and support, always use a mattress designed for electric hospital beds:

Select pressure-relief mattresses to prevent bedsores.

Choose the right mattress size for a snug fit within the bed frame.

Regularly check for wear and replace if necessary.

8. Regular Maintenance for Long-Term Durability

To ensure the longevity of an electric hospital bed, routine maintenance is crucial:

Inspect electrical components and wiring for damage.

Lubricate moving parts to ensure smooth operation.

Keep the control panel clean and dry.

Regularly test bed adjustments to confirm proper functionality.

9. Industry Insights and Market Trends

With the global medical bed market expected to grow significantly, driven by the aging population and increasing healthcare infrastructure investments, hospitals and care facilities are prioritizing electric hospital beds. Manufacturers are continuously innovating by integrating smart bed technologies, remote monitoring, and ergonomic enhancements to meet the evolving demands of the industry.

10. Choosing the Right Electric Hospital Bed Manufacturer

When purchasing electric hospital beds, procurement professionals should consider:

Compliance with safety and industry certifications (ISO, FDA, CE).

Customization options for different patient needs.

Reliable after-sales support and spare part availability.

Competitive pricing without compromising quality and durability.

Final Thoughts

Adjusting an electric hospital bed properly enhances patient care, comfort, and medical outcomes. As a leading manufacturer, we provide high-quality, customizable electric hospital beds designed for healthcare facilities and home care settings. If you are looking for durable, innovative, and ergonomic electric hospital beds, contact us today for more information on our product offerings.