Assembling Electric Hospital Beds: A Step-By-Step Guide

Hospital beds are designed to provide patients with comfort and stability, which are crucial for resting and recovery. They can be manual or electric, with the latter being easier for most people to use. Electric hospital beds may feature a lightweight, self-contained motor that reduces weight and noise. They can be adjusted by pushing a button, without needing assistance. Before assembling an electric hospital bed, it is important to read the manufacturer's manual and inspect the parts for any damage. The setup process typically involves connecting the spring links and the pull tubes, installing caster wheels, and attaching the head and footboards. Some beds use a snap-in motor design, where the motor snaps into the cams on the bed frame. It is also essential to test the controls and ensure there is no dust or lint buildup around the bed.

Attaching the head and footboard

To attach the head and footboard, you will need to start by connecting the spring links together. If your bed is new, you will find the pull-tube connected to the side frame. To disconnect the head pull tube assembly from the side frame of the foot spring, remove the hitch pin, grommet/washer from the clevis pin.

Next, extend the inner pull tube shaft manually until you hear a click, or until the spring button "clicks" into the adjustment hole of the outer pull tube. Now, connect the pull tube end assembly to the lift arm of the head spring.

Before attaching the head and footboards, install the caster wheels. If your bed comes with two locking casters and two without locks, install the locking casters diagonally opposite from one another.

Now, attach the spring base to the head and footboards. Most head and footboards come with a gear (or receiver) that is attached to the bed ends. To do this, lift the head spring section and raise it until the rivets of the spring section are level with the corner locks on the bed end. Tilt the bed end towards the head spring section to place the rivets, then return the bed end to its upright position so the rivets lock in place.

Connecting the spring links

To connect the spring links, start by grabbing the head spring and foot spring sections of the bed. These are the two largest parts of the bed and they are designed to latch together in the middle. Put the sections down on their sides at 90 degrees and move them closer to attach. Attach one section to the other by latching one section onto the centre mounting rivet on the other section. Once the latches are attached to the rivets on both sides, turn the bed over and straighten it out.

Next, look at the spring section of the bed and find the spring links. These are the parts that connect the two sides together so that you have a single surface for the mattress. To give some slack to the links, lift the head spring away from the bed's frame. Then, connect the spring links using the links provided separately in the box.

The pull tube is connected to the side of the frame for shipping purposes. Disconnect the head pull tube assembly from the side frame of the foot spring by removing the hitch pin, grommet/washer from the clevis pin. Extend the inner pull tube shaft manually until the spring button "clicks" into the adjustment hole of the outer pull tube. Connect the pull tube end assembly to the lift arm of the head spring.

Now, install the head/footboard caster wheels. If your bed comes with two locking casters and two without locks, install the locking casters diagonally opposite from one another.

Installing caster wheels

Before you begin the setup process, it is important to read the manufacturer's manual thoroughly to ensure you are following the correct steps. It is also important to inspect the parts of the hospital bed for any ill-fitting or damaged parts.

Now, to install the caster wheels, first identify the head and foot spring sections of the bed, which are the two largest parts. These sections are designed to latch together in the middle. Place the sections on their sides at 90-degree angles, then move them closer together. Attach the sections by latching one section to the center mounting rivet of the other section. Once the latches are attached on both sides, turn the bed over and straighten it out.

Next, find the spring links. These are the parts that connect the two sides of the bed together to create a single surface for the mattress. To give slack to the links, lift the head spring away from the bed's frame. Then, connect the spring links using the links provided.

The pull tube is often connected to the side frame for shipping purposes. To disconnect it from the side frame, remove the hitch pin from the clevis pin. Extend the inner pull tube shaft manually until you hear a "click" sound, indicating it is connected to the outer pull tube. Now, connect the pull tube end assembly to the lift arm of the head spring.

Finally, install the head and footboard caster wheels. If your bed has two locking casters and two without locks, install the locking casters diagonally opposite from each other.

Adjusting the height

Firstly, locate the controls for adjusting the bed's height. These controls may be in the form of buttons or switches, and they are typically located on a control panel within easy reach of the person in the bed. In some cases, the controls may be locked to prevent unauthorised adjustments, so ensure that you have access to the controls or know the unlocking mechanism.

Once you have located the controls, you can begin the adjustment process. If your bed has multiple adjustable sections, such as the head, knee, or foot, ensure that you are adjusting the correct section. Press the appropriate button or switch to initiate the height adjustment. Depending on the model of your bed, you may hear a mechanical noise indicating that the motor is active and the bed is in motion.

As the bed adjusts, pay close attention to the height. Most electric hospital beds will have a range of heights they can be adjusted to, typically within a range of inches. For example, the Medline Basic Semi-Electric Bed has a bed height range of 15" to 20". Ensure that you do not exceed the minimum or maximum height recommended by the manufacturer, as this could affect the stability of the bed.

While adjusting the height, always prioritise the comfort and safety of the person in the bed. Make sure that they are securely positioned and that the bed sheets or blankets are not tangled or caught in any moving parts. If the person in the bed needs assistance, communicate with them throughout the process to ensure their comfort and peace of mind.

Finally, once you have achieved the desired height, ensure that the bed is securely locked into position. Some beds may have an automatic locking mechanism, while others may require manual engagement of locks. Refer to your user manual to understand the locking system of your specific model. By following these steps, you can safely and effectively adjust the height of your electric hospital bed.

Checking for damage

Firstly, check the bed's power cord for any signs of damage. Ensure the cord is not crushed, pinched, sheared, cut, or worn through. It is crucial to prevent any damage to the power cord, as it may lead to electrical hazards or even fire risks. Ensure that the power cord is not trapped under furniture or the bed itself, and keep it away from walking areas and rugs to avoid tripping or fire hazards.

Secondly, inspect the bed frame for any loose bolts, worn-out components, or structural damage. Check for any sharp protrusions or rough edges, and file or sand them down to prevent injuries. Ensure that the bed frame is stable and does not wobble or lean to one side.

Thirdly, pay close attention to the bed controls. Check for any cracks or damage to the covering of the controls. Damaged covers may allow liquids to seep in, causing electrical malfunctions or even fires. Test the controls to ensure they are working correctly and that the locking feature, if present, is functional.

Additionally, inspect the mattress for any visible signs of damage, such as loose seams, tears, or abrasions. Mattresses can become contaminated if fluids enter through these damages, increasing the risk of infections. If the mattress is damaged, repair it using an FDA-registered medical surface repair product or replace it promptly.

Finally, have a professional or technician inspect the bed thoroughly. They should check for dust and lint build-up around the bed and ensure that all electrical and mechanical components are in proper working order. This includes verifying that the bed can move freely and extend to its full length without affecting the power cord or outlet.

Frequently asked questions