Overbeds, or hospital bed tables, make a nice accessory for a hospital setting. Not only are they functional, they can add a touch of class to an otherwise drab setting. Medical personnel can use the overbeds for a writing surface as they take notes on a patient's condition. Patients can use overbeds for their meals, and as a writing surface. Some models have tilt tops that make it comfortable for patients to read in bed or do puzzles while they recuperate.

You can find overbeds in a variety of sizes, tops and leg styles. They also come in a wide range of prices. Set your budget. Then pick a style within your budget. Look for overbeds that have the following:

1. Choose overbeds that have a scratch-resistant, easy-to-clean tabletop.

2. Look for overbeds with solid construction and easy-to-roll wheels.

3. Buy overbeds with a mechanism that lets you easily adjust the table height.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Pick traditional wheeled overbeds

These are the easiest to maneuver in a patient's room. With a handy height adjustment, you can use most overbeds as an accessory for all hospital beds. Some wheeled overbeds come with extra features, such as storage trays or mirrors.

I recommend: Aria Medical Equipment has a lengthy overbeds list. Hill-Rom's overbeds allow easy access from either side of the table.

Find tilt-top overbeds

Tilt-top overbeds have a mechanism that allows patients or medical personnel to change the position of the tabletop from the horizontal. These overbeds are great for people who must stay in bed for long periods of time, because they allow the patient to do a variety of activities without putting unnecessary strain on the neck muscles.

I recommend: PHC and Associates, an overbeds provider, has several tilt-top models you can purchase. You can find overbeds that tilt on the MedPlusUSA Medical Supplies website.

Locate specialty overbeds

There are a number of models of specialty overbeds. Some go much lower than typical overbeds, to allow geriatric patients to use them with their lower beds. Other models of overbeds fit over armchairs and recliners as well. These models give patients variety, so they can take their meals and do desk work. Still other models of overbeds have arms that tilt, making it possible to reach out-of-the-way spots.

I recommend: Sherman Oaks Medical Supplies offers overbeds for a variety of specialty needs. Some of its overbeds adapt to use with lift chairs, while others can reach over the bed from a variety of angles. MedicalProductsDirect.com, a division of Name Brands Direct, also offers a number of specialty overbeds on its website.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Overbeds must be able to stand up to rigorous cleaning. Make sure the material on the table top, as well as the legs and wheels, can withstand repeated cleaning with strong chemicals. Use the overbeds manufacturer's recommended cleaning products. If you don't, the wood grain on the tabletop may dull and the chrome finish may lose its shine.