Overbed tables, also known as hospital or medical overbed table, are multifunctional pieces of equipment primarily used in healthcare settings, but they can also be beneficial for individuals who need them for personal use at home. These tables are designed to extend or swivel over the bed to provide a hard and adjustable surface for activities such as eating, reading, or using a laptop. They can greatly enhance the comfort and convenience for bedridden individuals or those who spend extended periods in bed. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the overbed table.
Types of Overbed Tables
There are numerous designs available, but the main types of overbed tables can be classified as follows:
- Standard Overbed Tables: These have a single flat surface that can be adjusted vertically. The surface can be flat or have a slight tilt to support reading or laptop use.
- Split-Top Overbed Tables: The table surface is divided into two parts, one fixed and one adjustable. This allows the user to keep some items, like drinks or medications, on a level surface while tilting the other part for activities like reading.
- Deluxe or Multi-featured Overbed Tables: These types include additional features such as side storage, additional trays, or inbuilt cup holders. They offer more convenience but tend to be more expensive.
- Tilt-Top Overbed Tables: These tables allow the surface to be angled in different directions, making it easier for activities such as reading and writing.
- Pneumatic or Hydraulic Overbed Tables: These tables allow for smoother and more precise height adjustments using air (pneumatic) or liquid (hydraulic) pressure.
Key Features to Look for in an Overbed Table
When choosing an overbed table, consider the following features:
- Height Adjustability: A good overbed table should have a wide range of height adjustability to fit over different types of beds and accommodate various activities.
- Table Surface: Look for a table with a spacious, sturdy, and easy-to-clean surface. Some tables offer surfaces that can be tilted for more comfortable reading or writing.
- Mobility: Overbed tables with wheels make it easier to move them around. Lockable wheels or casters can provide stability when the table is in use.
- Weight Capacity: The table should be able to hold the weight of whatever you plan on placing on it, be it a meal, a laptop, books, or medical equipment.
- Stability: A stable overbed table is safer and more comfortable to use. Wider base legs and quality construction materials can contribute to better stability.
- Ease of Assembly: Some tables come pre-assembled, while others require assembly. Consider your comfort and ability to assemble the table.
Applications of Overbed Tables
While overbed tables were initially designed for healthcare settings, they have found applications in a variety of environments:
- Healthcare Facilities: In hospitals and nursing homes, these tables provide patients with a convenient platform to have their meals, take medication, read, write, or use electronic devices.
- Home Use: For individuals who are bedridden or prefer to spend a lot of time in bed, an overbed table can provide a lot of conveniences.
- Offices and Dorm Rooms: Some people use overbed tables as standing desks or for creating a workspace in a small room.
In summary, overbed tables are essential pieces of furniture that provide convenience and enhance comfort for individuals spending extended periods in bed. They come in a variety of types and designs, each with its unique features, to cater to the varied needs of users. When buying an overbed table, it’s important to consider your specific needs, including the table’s height adjustability, surface area, stability, and weight capacity.
