Creating a Safe Home Recovery Space with the Right Hospital Bed

 

Sometimes we have to provide our homes with a level of care typically found in hospitals, whether through recovering from an operation, a disease or injury, or caring for an elderly parent. But creating such a supportive and safe recovery space doesn’t require building a full-fledged clinic in your house. With some forethought and consideration, you can transform a guest room or even just a quiet spot in your living room into a comfortable place to recover, with everything you need to aid in healing, comfort, and safety.

Of course, there is no better component of your recovery space than the bed. If you’re recovering from an operation, have been injured, or are dealing with chronic health issue, your home bed simply won’t meet your needs for recovery. That is why a hospital bed is essential to establishing a functional recovery space.

How Important Is the Bed?

Your ordinary bed is designed solely for sleeping and does not serve the needs of those recuperating from an illness, injury, or surgical procedure. For example, when someone recuperates from an operation, he/she/they may need to use a recliner or sit-up chair while sitting; and/or elevate his/her/their legs due to swelling and/or circulatory problems. As a result, the person also needs to transfer frequently (i.e., get in/out of bed) to prevent developing pressure ulcers. These challenges can be resolved using a hospital bed:

• Adjustable height: Provides caregivers assistance with safely transferring patients from the bed, which reduces back strain on the caregiver(s).
• Elevation head/foot: Assists with individuals experiencing heartburn or acid reflux, respiratory disorders (e.g., asthma), circulatory problems (e.g., varicose veins), etc.
• Side rails: Provide additional protection for unstable/unpredictable patients.
• Pressure redistribution: Reduces the likelihood of developing pressure ulcers when a patient is immobile for prolonged periods.

You do not necessarily need to purchase a new bed for your recovery space. Although you’ll likely need equipment for a short term, you should consider rent a hospital bed for the specific duration of the individual’s recovery. In doing so, you’ll save money and be able to avoid storing/disposing of equipment post-recovery.

Setting Up Your Recovery Space

When deciding to utilize a hospital bed in your home for a recovery space, it is crucial to think about how you will arrange your room. Here are several aspects to consider:

1. Choose the correct location.

Ideally ground floor rooms are preferred since stairs may present difficulties to the patient. Additionally, proximity to a bathroom is extremely beneficial.

2. Clear the pathway.

Make certain to remove rugs/loose electrical wires/clutter that may contribute to falls. Also make sure that there is enough space (at least 3ft.) around the bed to accommodate caregivers and any mobility devices (such as walkers/wheelchairs).

3. Determine accessibility.

Place the bed in a manner that allows caregivers to easily reach both sides and provides a clear view of the door/window/TV. Smaller details such as having a clear view of an exit, having a window to look outside, or being able to watch TV can greatly impact mental wellness for the patient.

4. Lighting.

Utilize night lights/motion-sensing lights for late-night bathroom visits. Be sure that the main light switch is located near the entrance of the room to prevent getting out of bed and walking across the room in the dark.

Additional Accessories Needed Near the Bed

While a hospital bed is the cornerstone of your recovery area, you will want other accessories available as follows:

• Bedside Table/OVER BED TABLE – to position medications, water, phone, etc.
• Mattress – specifically made for pressure reduction. Patients who spend extended amounts of time in bed will benefit from this feature.
• Call Bell/Baby Monitor – so that patients can alert caregivers without yelling.
• Grab Bars/Bed Rail – for improved safety when transferring in and out of bed.
• Commode/Bed Pan – if patients cannot walk to/from the bathroom.

Renting Vs. Purchasing

As stated above, many times the decision on whether to rent or buy comes down to how long you will need the equipment. While recovering from an operation, suffering from an acute injury or undergoing hospice care, you will generally need the equipment for weeks/months versus years.

Thusly, rent hospital bed equipment tends to be the more affordable solution as well as offer additional benefits including:

• Less expensive initial cost than purchasing
• No need to store/discard the bed upon completion of recovery
• style="font-weight: 400;">Well maintained/sanitized equipment
• Flexibility to upgrade to different types of beds as the patient's needs evolve.

However, if you anticipate needing this type of equipment permanently/prior to the onset of the condition you are treating; purchasing will eventually become more financially viable.

Patient Participation

There is a tendency for family members to focus solely on the medical requirements of their loved ones’ recovery spaces; however, this space will be their “world” for the next few weeks. Therefore, involving them in small decisions regarding their recovery space (the direction they would prefer their bed face; what personal items will be placed close-by; which photos/belongings will allow them to feel like they still live in their own home); can foster a sense of control and well-being; thus supporting their overall recovery process.

Final Thoughts

>Your recovery space begins with a strong foundation – almost always the bed. By carefully considering how you lay out your room; acquiring various components/accessories that are appropriate for both the length and nature of your loved one’s recovery; you can establish a space conducive to both physical and mental healing; as well as promote peace-of-mind for both your patient/loved one and caregivers

>Regardless of whether you are preparing for a short term recovery after surgery or a longer-term care situation; taking the time to appropriately plan for this space will be one of the greatest investments you can make toward promoting comfort and safety at home for your loved one.