Hospice Care: Mattress Availability For Hospital Beds

Hospice care is a specialized type of supportive care that provides terminal patients with the same level of care they would receive at a hospital, but in the comfort of their own homes. Hospice care providers will bring a hospital bed into the patient's home, which is designed to provide a secure, stable, and comfortable environment for rest, healing, and recovery. These beds are twin-sized and can be raised and lowered, with a moveable head and foot. They are also equipped with adjustable bed rails and wheels. Hospice care providers will also provide other medical equipment and supplies, including mattresses, sheets, pillows, and blankets.

Pressure-relieving mattresses

These specialised mattresses are designed with pressure redistribution in mind. They often feature air bladders that constantly inflate and deflate, creating a dynamic surface that reduces pressure on the skin. This movement promotes blood flow and circulation, helping to prevent the formation of pressure ulcers. Additionally, some mattresses incorporate low air loss technology, maintaining a cool and dry microclimate between the skin and the mattress, further reducing moisture-related skin issues.

The design of pressure-relieving mattresses varies, with some offering a unique Geo-Matt® design that creates an anti-shearing surface with individually responsive cells. Others feature heel slope technology, which redistributes pressure away from vulnerable heels and provides complete foot support. These design elements not only prevent pressure ulcers but also enhance patient comfort, ensuring a relaxing and comfortable hospice environment.

Hospice care providers typically supply the necessary equipment, including hospital beds and pressure-relieving mattresses, to ensure optimal care for patients in their homes or hospice facilities. This equipment is tailored to meet the specific needs of patients, providing comfort, support, and improved quality of life during their hospice journey.

Adjustable beds

When a patient enters hospice care, the hospice team will bring the necessary equipment and medication to the patient's home. This often includes a hospital bed, which is designed to provide a secure, stable, and comfortable environment for rest and recovery. Most hospice settings include hospital beds, as they make it easier to provide hospice care.

Bed sores

Hospice care brings in hospital beds so that terminal patients can receive the same care they would in a hospital, but in the comfort of their own homes. Hospital beds are designed with the patient's safety and health in mind, and they are beneficial for both the patient and the caregiver. They are twin-sized beds that can be raised and lowered, and have a movable head and foot. They are also equipped with adjustable bed rails and wheels, making it easier to move the bed when necessary.

Hospital beds are particularly useful for patients who have difficulties with independent mobility. The adjustable bed rails help patients get in and out of bed safely and prevent them from falling out of bed. They also make it easier for caregivers to reposition patients, which is essential in preventing bed sores.

To prevent bed sores, it is important to change positions regularly, whether seated or in bed. It is also recommended to use a moisture barrier cream to protect the skin from sweat, urine, and stool. Keeping the skin clean and dry, eating a nutritious diet, and staying well-hydrated can also help. For those at risk of bed sores, it is important to use specialised mattresses or foam cushions to ease the pressure on the skin.

Patient comfort

Hospice care is a type of palliative care that is provided in the final weeks or months of life. It focuses on the comfort, care, and quality of life of individuals with a serious illness who are approaching the end of their lives. Hospice care is designed for situations where a serious illness is not responding to medical attempts to cure it or slow its progression. Hospice care provides comprehensive comfort care, support for the family, and attempts to cure the person's illness are stopped.

To ensure patient comfort, hospices typically provide hospital beds, which are specifically designed to provide a secure, stable, and comfortable environment for rest and recovery. These beds can be raised, lowered, and feature a movable head and foot. They are equipped with adjustable bed rails for added safety. Hospital beds also make it easier for caregivers to reposition patients, reducing the risk of bedsores and pressure ulcers caused by prolonged pressure and friction.

Additionally, hospices may provide pressure-relieving mattresses, which are beneficial for patients at high risk of pressure ulcers due to their inability to move independently or their reliance on ventilators. These mattresses feature air-filled chambers that frequently alternate air pressure to relieve pressure from different body parts.

Hospice care also extends beyond the physical aspects of comfort. It provides emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families, helping them navigate the challenges and fears that often accompany the end-of-life journey. This holistic approach ensures that patients' mental and spiritual well-being is addressed alongside their physical comfort.

Rental and ownership

When a patient enters hospice care, the hospice team will bring the necessary equipment and medication to the patient's home. This includes hospital beds and mattresses, as well as other medical equipment and supplies necessary for managing the patient's diagnosis. These beds are designed to provide a secure, stable, and comfortable environment for rest and recovery. They are typically twin-sized beds that can be raised and lowered, with a movable head and foot, wheels, and adjustable bed rails.

In terms of rental and ownership, it appears that hospice organizations generally rent the beds that are provided to patients. This allows for flexibility if a different type of bed or mattress is required, as they can simply call the supplier and have a replacement delivered. This also ensures that if anything breaks, a replacement can be swiftly provided. However, there are some instances where patients have been told they could keep the equipment, including the hospital bed, once their loved one passed away. In other cases, the equipment was requested to be returned. It is important to check with the hospice provider to clarify the specific rental and ownership policies.

For those who require long-term hospice care, it may be more economical to purchase a hospital bed rather than renting. This can be done by contacting companies that specialize in home hospital products, such as Sondercare. These companies offer a range of home hospital beds, mattresses, and accessories to ensure a comfortable experience. Additionally, if a patient has specific preferences or needs that are not met by the rented equipment, purchasing their own equipment may be a viable option.

It is worth noting that some individuals may have their hospice equipment, including hospital beds, covered by insurance or Medicare. In the case of one individual, their mother's hospice equipment was covered by Medicare and supplemental insurance, with an additional out-of-pocket expense of $30 per month for rental. Thus, it is important to consider the financial implications and options when deciding between renting and owning hospice equipment.

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