STORAGE SYSTEMS
care areas. This efficient use of space can help hospitals accommodate a larger number of beds, ultimately increasing their capacity to provide care to more patients. In addition to maximising floor space,
the vertical solution also enhances bed protection. By storing beds in a vertical position, the risk of damage from accidental collisions or mishandling is significantly reduced. This ensures that beds remain in optimal condition, ready for immediate use when needed. Furthermore, the vertical solution
Above: Three bed-high bedlifts holding 33 hospital beds in total have been installed at Kingston Hospital in the space of just 11, with charging facilities, while reducing manual handling risks to porters.
Right: The floorplan of the modified room at Kingston Hospital that houses eleven 3 bed-high Vidir vertical bedlifts, enabling 33 hospital beds to be stored in the space of 11.
small and inadequate to accommodate the required number of hospital beds in a safe and convenient manner. Through communication and discussion, and working from room dimensions, a floorplan (pictured above) was created using the Vidir hospital bedlift system that would optimise and maximise the available floor space. We at Medescon also produced a quotation so that the hospital could work on a business case to budget for the project. In February 2021, Medescon carried out a site visit to ensure that all the room measurements were correct. Working alongside the Trust’s Estates & Facilities Department and its building contractors, Medescon ensured that any modifications and building works carried out in the room concerned would ensure that the Vidir bedlifts fitted perfectly, while also allowing room for the cleaning and maintenance of the hospital beds. Once all the details had been confirmed, and following several site visits, Medescon installed eleven, three bed-high vertical bedlifts on both sides of the newly modified room, enabling 33 hospital beds to be stored in the space of just over 11. Maryam Mirjafari, head of Clinical Engineering and Medical Physics (Associate Director) at Kingston Hospital, said: “Installation of the new bed lift storage in our hospital’s bed store has made a remarkable difference in our daily operations. It has completely transformed the way we manage beds and mattresses, resulting in exceptional organisational and space efficiency. With the bedlift, we have been able to optimise our storage capacity, ensuring that beds and mattresses are neatly organised and easily accessible. This
has greatly improved our turnaround time, allowing us to quickly retrieve and deliver beds as needed, ultimately reducing waiting times for patients. Additionally, the increased availability of beds has been a tremendous advantage, as it enables us to accommodate patients promptly and efficiently. The bedlift has also contributed to significant cost savings, as we have experienced fewer repairs due to the careful handling and storage of beds. Moreover, it has created a safer environment for our staff, minimising the risk of injuries during the storage process. This, in turn, has had a positive impact on patient safety, ensuring a secure and reliable healthcare environment. We are truly grateful for this upgrade, as it has greatly enhanced our bed store operations, increased bed availability, reduced waiting times, lowered maintenance costs, and fostered a safer and more efficient hospital environment for both our staff and patients.”
Conclusions The use of a vertical storage solution for hospital beds has the potential to revolutionise bed management in healthcare facilities. By maximising floor space, protecting beds from damage, improving porter staff efficiency, streamlining bed management, and addressing fire safety considerations, the vertical solution offers a comprehensive approach to transforming hospital bed storage.
Maximising floor space is crucial in healthcare facilities, where every square metre counts. The vertical storage solution frees up valuable floor space for other essential equipment or patient
offers a comprehensive approach to bed management. With the integration of tracking systems and automated retrieval mechanisms, hospitals can efficiently monitor bed availability, track bed usage, and streamline the allocation process. This optimises bed turnover, and reduces the time patients spend waiting for a bed, ultimately improving patient flow, and enhancing overall operational efficiency. The Vidir vertical storage solution offers
a comprehensive and efficient approach to hospital bed management, revolutionising the way beds are stored and utilised in healthcare facilities. With its numerous benefits, it is clear that the vertical solution is a game-changer in the field of hospital bed storage.
Rachael Pickering
Rachael Pickering is head of Operations for Medescon. Her role involves looking after clients – from initial contact to overseeing installation of Vidir hospital bedlift stackers and ongoing customer care. She said: “Customer service has always been my thing; in my opinion, without it, you will be without customers. I love working with the NHS, where everyone is focused on improving standards and patient experience. I find it a really helps having a background in health and safety, as I risk assess everything, and can immediately see what needs to be done to make things safe for patients and staff.”
October 2023 Health Estate Journal 73
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