Check the size and weight limits of your bed before committing to rental or purchase. The importance of a patient's weight and BMI was noted by Wiggermann et al., who reported the significance of choosing a bed that’s big enough to ensure the safety of both the patient and their caregiver. As a rule:

Furthermore, stretcher hospital beds extend their utility beyond mere transport. In many hospitals, they double as examination or treatment beds within the emergency room or triage area. Their design facilitates use for initial assessments, allowing medical staff to perform critical procedures such as IV insertions or other stabilizing measures while the patient remains on the stretcher. This versatility enhances workflow efficiency, as it reduces the need to move patients between beds, potentially decreasing their discomfort.