Intensive care units (ICUs) are a unique environment where the pressure is often high and the needs are diverse. These units require customised equipment, including chairs that are designed to provide comfort and support to patients who are often immobilized for extended periods. Different climatical fluctuations can often mean an influx of patients with similar needs (e.g. respiratory considerations within peak flu seasons).

Choosing the right chair for an ICU is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of patients. In this guide, we’ll discuss five must-know tips for choosing the best chair for intensive care.

Tip #1: Consider the Patient’s Needs

The first and most important tip for choosing the best chair for intensive care is to consider the patient’s needs. Patients in ICU often have limited mobility and require a chair that provides adequate support and comfort.

Consider the patient’s height, weight, and any medical conditions that may affect their ability to sit for extended periods. The chair should be adjustable to accommodate different body types and provide the necessary support for patients with medical conditions such as back pain or pressure ulcers.

A popular choice here is our customisable Sertain Hi Lo Chair which is made with pressure management in mind. In addition, the chair is available in a range of sizes to cater for a greater range of patients too. The Sertain HILO Care Chair is also available in bariatric sizing to ensure care is available for larger patients.

Tip #2: Choose a Chair with Easy Mobility

Mobility is another important factor to consider when choosing a chair for intensive care. The chair should be easy to move and maneuver, allowing medical staff to position patients as needed for medical procedures and daily care. Another key consideration here is the ability of the chair to layflat to suit the patients comfort and ability to conduct particular procedures.

Consider a chair with wheels or casters that allow it to be easily moved around the room. The chair should also have locking mechanisms to ensure it stays in place during medical procedures.There are two base opens available pending the needs of the ward when purchasing the Sertain Hi Lo CHair. You can find out more here.

Tip #3: Look for Chairs with Removable Components

Patients in the ICU require frequent medical procedures, which often require them to be in a different position. Chairs with removable components, such as headrests, footrests, and armrests, can provide more flexibility in positioning the patient.

These removable components also make it easier to clean the chair and maintain proper hygiene, which is essential in the ICU environment.Both the Regency Care Chair and Sertain Hi Lo Chair have removable armrests to allow for side transfers of patients and easy access to conduct particular medical procedures.

Tip #4: Consider the Chair’s Material

The material of the chair is an important consideration when choosing a chair for intensive care. The chair should be made from materials that are durable, easy to clean, and comfortable for the patient.

Consider chairs made from materials such as vinyl, which is easy to clean and disinfect, or memory foam, which provides excellent support and comfort for patients.Polysoft vinyl is a great option here as it is resilient, easy-to-clean and durable. It is a popular choice when it comes to quality care seating within intensive care and high pressure environments.

Tip #5: Ensure the Chair minimises strain on carers 

Finally, when working in an Intensive Care environment, it is important that the chair alleviates as much strain as possible on those delivering care. The ability for a chair to be raised and lowered in height is key to minimising stress on a nurse’s or healthcare professionals back. A great example of a chair that does this is the Sertain Hi Lo Chair which has a height adjustable range of 550mm to 850mm, catering for a range of nurses.

In conclusion, choosing the right chair for intensive care is essential to ensure the comfort and safety of patients. By considering the patient’s needs, mobility, removable components, material, and user-ease, you can choose the best chair for your ICU.