The beds used in an Intensive Care Unit are specially designed to be able to meet the unique needs of critically ill patients. The ICU bed is designed to be able to transport critically ill, ventilated patients. Apart from supporting the patient comfortably and safely, the bed must have room to carry portable oxygen cylinders and suction equipment, emergency resuscitation equipment, the intravenous infusions and their pumps, as well as a transport monitor and ventilator.
Typical ICU Bed
ICU Beds Version 1.1
First published June 2004
Reviewed June 2008
Reviewer Kathleen Ryan CNC ICCMU
The ICU bed should be tilt and height adjustable. The beds also need to meet Occupational Health & Safety specifications in relation to safe weight limits, patient safety rails, appropriate steering and braking devices, as well as accommodate the ICU’s weighing and lifting machines.
The beds also need to have removable head and foot boards, be able to insert bed extensions for tall patients and be able to have traction frames added, when needed. The beds can be either manually or electronically operated.
All Intensive Care interventions and procedures carry a degree of potential risk even when performed by skilled and experienced staff. Please discuss these issues with the medical and nursing staff who are caring for the patient.
Of course, if you have any questions or concerns, please discuss them with the ICU nurses and doctors.
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In collaboration with the Community and ICU Clinicians, the Intensive Care Coordination & Monitoring Unit (ICCMU) and NSWHealth are committed to promoting excellence across Intensive Care services throughout the State. © ICCMU, NSWHealth.