ICU Beds vs Regular Hospital Beds: Key Differences

If you have a medical facility, you know that beds play a big role in medical facilities, whether it is for the patient’s comfort or for recovery. In this blog we will discuss two types of beds that are majorly used in medical facilities, such as ICU beds and regular hospital beds. Both beds are there to serve the purpose of providing care for the patient, but both offer something different. Let’s explore the key differences between ICU beds vs. regular hospital beds, so that you can decide which is better for your medical facility. 

Difference In Design and Structure

One of the key, and most apparent differences between ICU beds vs. regular beds is their appearance and design. ICU beds are on a different level of patient care as they are designed to be equipped with advanced features that are used to cater patients that are critically ill, and require constant monitoring. ICU beds also provide better adjustability, empowering medical professionals to reposition the patient in ways that are most comfortable, or enhance medical treatment. 

When it comes to regular hospital beds, they are relied on for providing a more general sense of patient care, by providing basic support. These beds are suited for patients who do not require constant vigilance from medical professionals. 

Difference In Features and Functionality

A key difference between ICU beds vs. regular beds is the advanced features that ICU beds are typically integrated with, in ICU beds, there is usually:

• Electronic height and position adjustments
• Integrated weighing scales
• Cardiac chair positioning
• Built-in monitoring and alert systems
• Side rail control panels for ease of access

Plain Hospital Bed usually do not have any of these advanced features, outside of adjustability for head and leg elevation, as they are designed to be reliable for regular needs. 

Read More: Plain Hospital Beds: A Buyer’s Guide for Healthcare Providers

Difference In Patient Monitoring Capabilities

ICU beds are equipped with features that can monitor patients, integrated directly with the systems of the medical facilities, and as such, provide real-time tracking. This proves invaluable for medical facilities, as vital signs such as heart rate, oxygen levels and blood pressure can be key in determining the state of the patient, and also alert in case an intervention is required promptly. 

When it comes to regular hospital beds, patient monitoring capabilities are not present, as they are used for patients that are not suffering from critical illness. These beds are more suited for post-operative recovery. 

Difference In Mobility and Ease of Transport

Another key difference in ICU beds vs. regular hospital beds is mobility. ICU beds are designed with features that allow ease of transport within the hospital. They often feature:

• High-quality caster wheels with locking mechanisms
• Hydraulic or electric height adjustments
• Smooth maneuverability to navigate narrow spaces

Regular hospital beds are typically less mobile and do not have advanced transport features. While they may have wheels, they lack the flexibility required for frequent movement in intensive care settings.

While it may vary, regular hospital beds are typically less mobile. They might have wheels, but may lack the flexibility that ICU beds possess that allows them frequent movement. 

Difference In Support for Life-Saving Equipment

When it comes to accommodating life-saving equipment in ICU beds vs. regular beds, ICU beds can be integrated with IV stands, dialysis machines, ventilators, all to ensure that patients with critical illness can receive the seamless care they require.

Regular hospital beds just do not have the same level of integration with medical equipment, as they are designed to provide general care and are not the best choice for patients that are in critical condition. 

Difference In Customization and Patient Comfort

Customization is another key differentiating factor when it comes to ICU beds vs. regular hospital beds. ICU beds often offer various settings that give the medical professionals control over the bed, whether it is the positioning, improve patient’s circulation or comfort, the customization features of ICU beds give them an edge. 

Regular hospital beds, while comfortable, just do not offer the same level of customization. As they are perfect for short-term stays, they are best suited for patients who do not require there to be much customization for them to be taken care of. 

Read More: How Many Types of Beds in Hospital?

Differences In Cost

Another key difference that exists in ICU beds vs. regular hospital beds is of their difference in cost. While regular hospital beds are only used in situations when advanced medical features are not necessary for the patient, ICU beds being critical care units cost considerably more. 

Difference In Intended Use

Both of these beds are of different types and as such, have different intended use. When it comes to providing support to patients suffering from life-threatening conditions, ICU beds are chosen as their features allow for constant surveillance of the patient.

However, when the matter is of minor surgeries, or routine medical treatments, regular hosptial beds are preferred. Instead of being used for patients in life-threatening conditions, they are better suited for general wards and nursing homes. 

Difference In Emergency and Safety Features

ICU beds come equipped with emergency and safety features that allow quick intervention during medical crises. Some of these features include:

• CPR functions for rapid resuscitation
• Auto-regression features to prevent pressure injuries
• Battery backup in case of power failure
• Fall prevention side rails

Regular hospital beds have basic safety features such as side rails and adjustable heights, but they do not provide the same level of emergency support reqx-uired in critical care settings.

Conclusion

When comparing ICU beds vs. regular hospital beds, it is clear that ICU beds are designed for critically ill patients who need constant monitoring, advanced support, and integration with medical equipment. Regular hospital beds, while offering comfort and adjustability, are best suited for general patient care without intensive medical needs. 

Do you want to install the finest medical equipment for your medical facility? Contact Neo Light Creations today. 

To know more about our product: Led OT Light, Plain Hospital Bed, Mobile OT Light, Delivery Table, Delivery Bed, OT Table, Pediatric Bed, Semi Fowler Bed, Fowler Bed and ICU Bed.