Gelre Ziekenhuizen has launched a major logistical operation to replace 350 outdated hospital beds at its Apeldoorn location this week.
The previous beds had been in service for 20 years, exceeding the standard 15-year lifespan for hospital beds.
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According to hospital officials, the old beds frequently broke down, and replacement parts became increasingly difficult to obtain, threatening a shortage of beds.
New Beds Offer Modern Features
A dedicated working group from various hospital departments evaluated multiple test options before selecting the new model.
Neurology team leader Henk Jan Simmelink said the group focused on safety rails, adjustment speed, and maneuverability during the selection process.
The newly chosen beds are lighter and feature lower height settings and tilting capabilities to assist in patient rehabilitation.
“This bed has many more options. The bed can be lowered and can also be tilted, which is useful during rehabilitation,” Simmelink said.
The reduced weight provides immediate physical relief for nursing staff who move the beds through corridors daily.
“Our old beds were too heavy to move,” Simmelink added.
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“This lighter bed is therefore a major improvement, especially for the nurses who work with it every day.”
The hospital equipped all incoming beds with new mattresses while retaining the same structural types used previously.
Simmelink noted that the total investment exceeded €1 million. “It is worth it, however, because nurses and patients work with it every day.
Moreover, we think it is important that our patients have comfort during their stay here,” he said.
The hospital hopes the new beds will last at least 15 years.
The old beds will be donated to an organization supporting global medical projects.
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Gelre Ziekenhuizen plans to replace all beds at its Zutphen location after the summer.
