Furniture for healthcare must accommodate all types of patients. There is a growing number of bariatric patients especially in Chennai and they need chairs and beds of different size and structure. Chairs now come in a variety of weight capacities and seat width. Bariatric furniture is not just for patients needing bariatric treatment but it can also accommodate the growing population in the hospital premises. Hospitals must ensure that any special needs furniture is readily available. Thumb rule is that one out of every ten seating options should be allocated to bariatric patients. Good quality bariatric seating should be able to evenly distribute the weight for better performance.
Comfort is a vital factor that comes along quality furniture. Caregivers take the majority of stress over them as they support patients’ needs. They support patients in transferring, standing and walking or waiting for them seated for a longer period of time. Chairs should feel comfortable for longer periods. It should have five-leg bases with soft armrests and a backbone that supports the natural curve of the spine and supports the lumbar adequately. If you are providing desks, it should have enough space to place a laptop at least 20 inches away and there should be ample desk space.
Patient and treatment room should be bacteria and fluid resistant. Infection control should be given utmost importance in these areas. You must choose the furniture and upholsteries that address these issues. The upholstery should withstand 24/7 use and constant cleaning. Furniture should have fluid barriers over the cushion. It should be resistant to stain, bacteria and bacteria. It should not allow moisture to pass through the cushion while cleaning. The upholstery should be a softer and breathable material that can be a protective barrier without sacrificing the feel of the furniture. Good quality furniture is easy to maintain and will not require any protective material and there will be no place for bacteria to hide.