Basic functions

• Height adjustment: 

  Buttons with upward and downward arrows raise or lower the entire bed, making it easier for caregivers to assist the patient without straining their back. 
• Head and foot adjustment: 

  Separate buttons allow for the head and foot sections to be angled up or down. 

  • Raising the head provides a comfortable sitting position for activities like eating or reading. 
  • Elevating the foot can help relieve pressure on the legs and promote circulation. 
• “Chair” position: 

  This common advanced function uses a combination of buttons to raise the head and knees while lowering the foot, creating a reclined, chair-like position. 

Safety and security features

• Control lock: 

  A lock function can be engaged to disable some or all of the controls, preventing accidental adjustments by the patient. 
• Manual crank: 

  An emergency hand crank is often included to operate the bed manually in case of a power outage. 
• Automatic stop: 

  Some beds have a mechanism that automatically stops the bed from descending below a safe threshold to prevent entrapment. 
• Backlit buttons: 

  These allow for easy operation in low-light conditions. 
• Wiring and connectors: 

  Manufacturers design these to prevent electrical failures and short circuits. 

Advanced features

• Memory function: This stores preferred bed positions for easy recall. 
• Massage: Some controllers have buttons to activate a gentle vibration massage. 
• Under-bed lighting: Some beds are equipped with lights to help users see at night. 
• Integrated monitoring: “Smart” beds can use sensors to monitor vital signs and bed-exit alarms, alerting staff to potential issues. 

How to use the controller

1. Identify functions: 

   Look for buttons with icons or text to understand their purpose. 
2. Adjust as needed: 

   Press and hold the appropriate button (e.g., up/down arrows) to move the desired section of the bed. Release the button when the desired position is reached, which will stop the motor. 
3. Lock controls: 

   When finished or for patient safety, press the lock button to disable the controls. 
4. Check manufacturer instructions: 

   Since features can vary, always refer to the specific bed’s instructions for guidance on its unique controls and safety features. 

Types of controllers

• Manual Controllers: 

  These are hand cranks used to change the bed’s height and positions.

  • Pros: Simple, require no power.
  • Cons: Difficult to use, especially for patients with limited strength, and may be less comfortable for caregivers.
• Semi-Electric Controllers: 

  These use an electric motor for head and foot adjustments but require a hand crank for the height adjustment.

  • Pros: Easier to adjust the backrest and footrest than manual beds.
  • Cons: Height adjustment is still manual and requires physical effort.
• Fully-Electric Controllers: 

  These use electric motors to control all bed functions, including height, head, and foot positions.

  • Pros: Operated with a remote, making it easier for patients to adjust their position independently and for caregivers to assist with adjustments or sheet changes.
  • Cons: Requires power to function. 

Controller interface types

• Wired/Cabled: A wired remote control is physically connected to the bed. 
• Wireless: A remote control that communicates with the bed wirelessly, offering greater flexibility. 
• Basic Handset: A simple remote with buttons for different functions. 
• Advanced Handset: Some advanced models may include an integrated display for more information. 

Key features to look for

• Adjustability: 

  Ensure the bed offers the specific adjustments needed, such as head, foot, and height controls. 

  • Manual: Requires physical cranking to adjust positions. 
  • Semi-electric: Allows for electric adjustment of the head and foot, but height is adjusted manually. 
  • Fully electric: Provides complete electric control over head, foot, and height. 
• Motor and control system:

  • Assess whether a manual, semi-electric, or fully electric system best fits the user’s needs and budget. 
  • Look for a standardized interface for consistent operation in different care environments. 
  • Consider beds with features like cardiac chair position or Trendelenburg for advanced medical needs. 
• Power backup: 

  For electric beds, a battery backup is crucial to ensure the bed can still be adjusted during a power outage. 
• Weight capacity: 

  Choose a bed with a weight capacity that safely supports the patient, including bariatric options if necessary. 
• Mobility: 

  Features like casters or a 5th wheel make it easier to move the bed for cleaning or repositioning. Some advanced models offer a power drive system. 
• Safety:

  • Ensure the bed has appropriate safety rails for fall protection. 
  • Look for very low height capabilities for patients with cognitive impairment to prevent falls. 
• Mattress compatibility: 

  Check that the bed is compatible with the intended mattress, especially if a specialized pressure-relief or therapeutic mattress is needed. 

Additional considerations

• User needs: 

  Select a bed based on the patient’s specific health condition and their ability to operate the controls.
• Space: 

  Confirm the bed will fit in the intended space, which is particularly important for home use.
• Budget: 

  Compare prices and consider options like renting or buying used if the budget is a primary concern.
• Supplier: 

  Research the supplier’s reputation, customer reviews, and customer service to ensure you have support for setup, operation, and maintenance.