Your Checklist for Finding a Safe and Affordable Hospital Bed in Ontario
Your Checklist for Finding a Safe and Affordable Hospital Bed in Ontario
If you need a hospital bed for home care in Oakville, buying a used one can save you some money. The finest solution in this case would be buying one that is affordable. However, a bed that is reliable and safe to use is the bed that is worth the investment.
A hospital bed requires a medical device for special care. Therefore, an inspection is necessary for the patient and your own peace of mind. The following steps will help with the inspection of a bed before making the purchase in the Mississauga and Burlington areas.
Your Pre-Inspection Checklist In Advance
Before visiting the location, gather all necessary details.
Ask Questions:
Age and Usage: What is the bed’s age? Was the bed used in a private residence or an institution? Beds from long-term care institutions might be subject to more wear and tear.
Model Number: What is the make and model? Having the make and model opens the possibility of looking for a user guide online which is very useful in understanding the features and specifications.
Original Purchase Details: Do they have the original receipt or manual?
Safety Certification: Validate that the bed carries either a CSA (Canadian Standards Association) or ULC (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada) certification mark. There’s no flexibility on this issue in terms of safety requirements in Canada.
Arrange a Viewing Appointment: Never purchase a second-hand hospital bed online without physically inspecting it. Make a point of seeing the bed firsthand.
The Hands-On Inspection Guide
Conduct this inspection when you’re physically present to evaluate the bed.
1. The Frame and Structure
To assess the frame, first you will want to inspect for evidence of rust. Inspect all joints, wheels, and the underside of the mattress platform. The frame might only have surface rust which may only be cosmetic, be careful of structural Rust.
Secondly, inspect the metal frame for any visible breaks, bends and/or excessive welding. You will want to inspect all hinges and side rail connections in detail.
Thirdly, you want to check for stability. Pull on the frame of the bed to rock it and test if it feels stable. It should feel stable, if the bed has a Trendelenburg function, ask the supplier to demonstrate it.
2. The Mattress Platform and Parts
You need to check the sections are functioning properly (head, foot and knee break). You will not want to hear loud grinding noise when you move these sections.
You need to check the mattress platform for missing parts. Check for broken springs and missing latches and pins or any parts missing from the mattress platform.
3. Electrical Systems (for Electric Beds)
This will be one of the more important things to assess.
Testing: Plug the bed in and test all the functions well through the following:
Head Up/Down
Foot Up/Down
Height Up/Down
Hear & Observe: The motor should be quiet and run smoothly. Loud grinding, buzzing, or straining sounds are indications that there is a motor or gear malfunction and should not be ignored.
Hand Pendant: Look over the cord to see if there are any frays or other damage. Make sure every button on the remote works and is labeled correctly.
Power Cord: Look over the power cord to check if there are any cuts, cracks, or exposed wiring.
4. Mechanical Systems (For Manual Crank Beds)
Test the Cranks: If you are using a manual bed, then put on and check the use of the cranks for all functions (head, foot, and height). It should turn smoothly without excessive force or skipping.
Check for Stability: The bed needs to lock in place once adjusted and should not sag or sink when gentle pressure is applied.
5. Side Rails and Accessories
Side Rails: If the item has side rails, test them. They need to deploy and retract without resistance and have positive locks that engage both in the up and down positions. Shake them vigorously to verify they are fixed.
Mattress: You will want to purchase a new mattress for sanitation concerns (highly advised!), but check the one that came with the bed to make sure it is included and to assess its condition.
Final Steps Before You Buy in Oakville
Plan for Transport: Hospital beds are cumbersome and heavy. Do you have a vehicle big enough? Most sellers in Oakville won’t offer delivery, so you may have to arrange someone to help you or even rent a van.
Negotiate: Any issues you found (e.g., missing crank, noisy motor) should be used to bargain for a reasonable price.
Pick Up a Receipt: For your records, always remember to pick up a dated bill of sale.
Thinking About a Specialist in Oakville?
If all of this is too much for you to handle, or if you find a bed that needs a second opinion, look into a reputable local medical equipment company. In the GTA and Oakville, they often have hospital beds that are professionally refurbished for sale