bed alarms, also known as bed exit alarms or patient aid systems, are devices that emit a warning signal when a person gets out of bed or attempts to leave their bed. This allows caregivers to intervene quickly, preventing potential falls that can lead to injury. bed alarms are commonly found in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, care homes, and assisted living facilities, to ensure that patients do not attempt to leave unsupervised. they can also be used in the home to provide peace of mind to family members or caregivers.
key features
- early warning systems: many modern bed alarms feature an early warning system that triggers an alarm soon after a patient starts to sit up, giving a caregiver extra time to intervene.
- portable pageras: some bed alarms are designed to be compact and portable, allowing them to be easily carried by either the patient or a caregiver.
- battery operated: many bed alarms run on rechargeable or single-use batteries, making them convenient for daily use without the need to plug into an electrical outlet.
- volume control: many bed alarms allow users to adjust the volume of the alarm to a level that is comfortable for them to hear.
- range: the range of a bed alarm determines how far away it can be from the bed sensor pad without interruption, affecting how useful it is in various applications.
- interference-free: some bed alarms are equipped with a 2.4G band, which is less prone to interference from other electronic devices in the home.
- worn under clothes: bed sensor pads can be worn under clothing to continuously protect against bed exits when a patient is mobile.
types of bed alarms
different types of bed alarms are available to meet the specific needs and preferences of individuals using them. here are some of the most common types:
cordless bed alarms
cordless bed alarms rely on radio frequency technology to communicate with a base unit, often placed near the bed. this enables them to be portable and easy to move from room to room without the need for cords or cables.
wireless bed alarms
wireless bed alarms use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi technology to communicate with a base unit, eliminating the need for cords. they typically have a range of up to 300 feet, making them a good choice for home use, hotels, and retirement homes.
dual tone bed alarms
dual tone bed alarms emit two distinct tones, usually a high-pitched tone for when a patient gets out of bed and a lower-pitched tone for when the patient is simply getting into bed or rolling over.
motion activated bed alarms
motion activated bed alarms sense movement near the bed and can be set to trigger an alarm when motion is detected for a certain period of time. they are often used in dementia or Alzheimer's units.
