Licking Memorial Hospital (LMH) recently acquired 13 new smart beds in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).  The Progressa+ True ICU bed, manufactured by Hillrom, contains in-bed technologies that optimize patient care and accelerate recovery, resulting in decreased time spent in the ICU and a reduction in hospital costs. 
 
“The new ICU beds will do so much to enhance and improve patient care, optimize clinical performance, and minimize complications for patients who are in the ICU,” said Licking Memorial Health Systems President & CEO Rob Montagnese.  “LMH is getting 13 out of the 500 ICU smart beds manufactured in the entire country, which is simply remarkable and speaks to our level of dedication to improve the health of the community.”
 
The beds feature a 40-inch frame to accommodate patients of various weights and sizes.  Head of bed access allows physicians easier contact with the patient for intubation and other bedside procedures.  A radiolucent deck and X-ray sleeve allow for daily ICU procedures, such as fluoroscopy and X-rays to be performed at the bedside, helping to avoid delays in patient care.
 
Advanced support surface features help protect the patient’s skin integrity to prevent pressure injuries.  The mattresses contain enhanced microclimate management to keep patients cool and dry and reduce the risk of skin breakdown.  Alternating pressure adjusts the firmness of the mattress to treat and prevent pressure ulcers.  Turn assist and turn reminders keep the patient from lying in one position for too long. 
 
The beds are also equipped to deliver pulmonary therapies to reduce respiratory complications associated with long periods of immobility.  Continuous lateral rotation therapy (CLRT) and percussion and vibration help loosen secretions in the lungs for easier removal.  A proning accessory easily attaches to the bed frame to provide access to the patient’s face while lying in the prone position and helps reduce the risk of complications associated with proning. 
 
The Progressa+ True ICU beds offer flexible frame options to move patients safely and easily.  Options include one-button full-chair positioning with chair egress, as well as stand assist to support patients through early mobilization.  An integrated alarm alerts caregivers if patient movement is detected to help ensure patients are safe while in bed and prevent patient falls.