The experience of using a hospital bed alternative at home among individuals with spinal cord injury: A case series

This study explores the experiences of individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) who chose to use alternative adjustable beds at home instead of standard hospital beds. It investigates their comfort, skin health, and how these beds affect their daily lives. The researchers collected data through interviews, questionnaires, and pressure mapping to understand the benefits and drawbacks of using alternative adjustable bed systems compared to traditional hospital beds with pressure-reducing mattresses. The study found that participants generally had positive experiences with alternative adjustable beds, citing increased comfort, a greater sense of normalcy, and improved functionality. The use of these beds did not negatively impact skin health.

• 1
  Participants preferred alternative adjustable beds due to their larger size and the desire to share a bed with a significant other, which was not feasible with smaller hospital beds.
• 2
  The alternative adjustable beds provided a greater sense of normalcy, helping participants to separate their homes from the hospital environment and improving their overall quality of life.
• 3
  Participants reported that alternative adjustable beds improved their functional abilities, such as rolling and transferring, and facilitated caregiver assistance due to features like height adjustability and bedrails.