Name of the Procedure:

Hospital Bed, Variable Height, Hi-Lo, with Any Type Side Rails, Without Mattress (HCPCS Code: E0256)

Summary

A hospital bed that can be adjusted to various heights, typically used for patients who require long-term care, have mobility issues, or are bedridden. The bed includes side rails for safety but does not come with a mattress.

Purpose

The primary goal of this hospital bed is to enhance patient comfort and safety. It especially helps those with limited mobility to move in and out of bed with less risk of falls and facilitates ease of care for healthcare providers by allowing height adjustments.

Indications

• Patients requiring long-term bed rest
• Individuals with mobility issues or risk of falls
• Post-operative patients needing a safe recovery environment
• Patients with severe chronic conditions that impair mobility

Preparation

• No specific pre-procedure instructions are typically needed
• A healthcare provider may assess the patient's specific needs to customize the bed's settings and ensure appropriate side rails and accessories are attached

Procedure Description

1. Assessment: The healthcare provider assesses the patient's needs and selects the hospital bed model.
2. Delivery and Setup: The bed is delivered to the patient's location, typically by a medical equipment provider.
3. Adjustment: The hospital bed's height is adjusted to a safe and comfortable level for the patient, with side rails installed as needed.
4. Instruction: The patient and caregivers are instructed on how to use the bed's controls and side rail features.

Duration

The setup and adjustment usually take about 1-2 hours.

Setting

This procedure is often performed in a patient's home, a hospital, or a long-term care facility.

Personnel

• Medical equipment provider or technician
• Healthcare provider (nurse or physician) for assessment and instruction

Risks and Complications

• Mechanical failure or malfunction
• Risk of entrapment or injury from side rails if not properly used
• Potential for improper bed adjustments leading to falls or injury

Benefits

• Increased comfort and safety for the patient
• Reduced risk of falls and injuries
• Easier provision of care by healthcare providers
• Enhanced mobility for patients to get in and out of bed

Recovery

• Immediate usability post-setup
• Instructions provided for patient's daily use and safety
• Regular maintenance checks might be required

Alternatives

• Standard non-adjustable hospital beds
• Home care beds with manual adjustment mechanisms
• Specialty beds designed for specific medical conditions
• Each alternative has a balance between cost, ease of use, and specific patient needs

Patient Experience

• Most patients find the bed comfortable and easy to adjust.
• Patients might feel reassured by the additional safety provided by the side rails.
• Caregivers appreciate the ease of height adjustment which reduces their physical strain.
• Pain management and comfort measures such as cushioning and positioning aids can be used as needed.