An overbed table is a rolling table designed to provide a convenient surface for residents while in bed or a chair. It can hold food trays, personal items, and supplies needed during treatments or care. Often, the items on an overbed table are the only things within reach for a resident. These tables become their entire world, holding everything from phones and devices to tissues, books, remote controls, meals, beverages, and more.
What to Look For When Selecting a Medical Air Mattress
Height Adjustability
- Adjustable overbed tables allow for optimal usability and comfort
- Allows table to be lowered to rest at the patient’s lap if desired
Tabletop Design
- Flat Top—a stationary, hard surface
- Adjustable Tilt Top—adjusts at an angle to make reading books or viewing screens easier
- Dual Surface—includes a slide-out second surface for added space
Locking Mechanism
- Ensures an overbed rolling table remains securely in place to avoid accidents or injuries
- Keeps table from rolling away during resident use
Cleanability
Medical overbed tables have easy-to-clean surfaces help with infection control and prevent the spread of viruses, germs and bacteria
Construction
- Lightweight models are ideal for general residential applications
- Heavy-duty designs are built with sturdier materials and well suited for the demands of hospitals and healthcare facilities
Convenience
Look for an overbed table with wheels designed for easy maneuvering around a patient’s bed, chair, and room
Important Standards
Safety should be your top priority when choosing overbed tables for healthcare facilities. Ensure any table you select:
- Meets all relevant safety standards
- Features durable construction for busy healthcare environments
- Includes a locking mechanism
- Is easy to clean and disinfect to maintain a sterile environment
Weight and Cord Safety
- Overbed tables can be tipped over fairly easily, they should not be used to support large or heavy items.
- To avoid the risk of entanglement, corded items should not be attached to overbed tables.
Extras
Special features can assist patients with limitations, make clean-up easier, and provide added convenience
- Molded cup or utensil holders
- Spill guards
- Slide-out trays, drawers or shelves
- Vanity drawers with mirror
Overbed Table FAQs
What is an overbed table?
An overbed table is a mobile table designed to provide a convenient surface for residents while in bed or a chair, often used to hold food trays, personal items, and medical supplies.
How do overbed tables improve care?
Overbed tables keep essential items within reach, reducing the need for residents to stretch or move uncomfortably. This accessibility supports better care by enabling residents to maintain a sense of independence and convenience.
How do I maintain and clean an overbed table?
Regularly wipe down the table with disinfectant to maintain a sterile environment. Check for any loose parts and ensure the locking mechanisms and wheels function properly.
What safety features should an overbed table have?
Look for overbed tables with locking mechanisms to prevent accidental movement, sturdy construction to withstand daily use, and smooth-rolling casters for easy mobility.
Are overbed tables easy to move?
Yes, overbed tables are equipped with casters for easy mobility, allowing them to be conveniently positioned and repositioned as needed.
Direct Supply® makes finding the overbed tables easy
When it comes to overbed tables, we know there are a lot of choices on the market today and finding what’s best for your facility can be a challenge. That’s why Direct Supply offers a vast assortment of medical-grade tables, tray tables, and bed trays from leading brands like Invacare, Medline, and Drive Medical all in one convenient place…plus this guide to help you sort through the important considerations and features.
Once you’ve made your pick, you’ll find easy ordering, convenient delivery and installation services, budget-friendly financing options, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Of course, if you need assistance you can count on our expertise to help you find exactly the right match for your specific requirements and budget.
