Medical exam tables have long been an equipment essential for exam rooms in clinics and physician offices. However, more recently, healthcare facilities have begun upgrading to procedure chairs to capitalize on their numerous benefits.
In this article, we will explore why medical facilities should consider upgrading to procedure chairs. We will answer the questions:
- What is a procedure chair?
- What types of procedure chairs are available?
- What is the difference between an exam table and a procedure chair?
- What are the benefits of procedure chairs?
- What features are important to look for in procedure chairs?
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is a procedure chair?
A procedure chair is a specialized piece of medical furniture designed to accommodate a wide range of medical procedures. Unlike traditional exam tables, procedure chairs offer advanced functionality and comfort. These chairs can be adjusted in multiple ways to suit the needs of both the patient and the healthcare provider, making them an invaluable asset.
What types of procedure chairs are available?
Procedure chairs, also known as examination chairs, can be customized to suit different specialties and needs. Here are some common specializations:
- General Examination Chairs: These versatile chairs are used for a wide range of medical applications. They can be adjusted to various positions to accommodate different procedures and the patient’s comfort.
- ENT Chairs: Specifically designed for ear, nose, and throat examinations and procedures, these chairs often have adjustable headrests and armrests for unobstructed access to a patient's head and neck.
- Gynecology Chairs: Used for gynecological exams and procedures, these procedure chairs feature leg supports (stirrups). They are designed for efficient examinations and patient comfort.
- Ophthalmic Chairs: Designed for eye examinations and treatments, these chairs offer precise positioning and stability features essential for delicate eye procedures.
- Podiatry Chairs: Used for foot and lower leg examinations and treatments, these chairs feature adjustable footrests and can be tilted to various angles to give medical professionals unrestricted access to the foot and ankle.
- Dental Chairs: Specifically designed for dental procedures, these chairs can be reclined fully and offer built-in features for easy access to dental equipment and unencumbered access to the patient's mouth.
Shop CME for a wide selection of procedure chairs.
What is the difference between an Exam Table and a Procedure Chair?
Procedure chairs and exam tables serve different purposes in medical settings and have distinct features tailored to their specific uses:
| Procedure Chairs |
Exam Tables |
|
| Adjustability |
High Adjustability: Procedure chairs offer a wide range of adjustments, to height, tilt, backrest, leg rest, and armrests. This flexibility gives healthcare providers the freedom to position patients precisely for a procedure. Motorized Adjustments: Many procedure chairs come with electric or hydraulic adjustment systems for ease of use. |
Limited Adjustability: Exam tables generally have fewer adjustment options compared to procedure chairs. They often have basic adjustments for the backrest and sometimes the leg rest, but these are usually manual rather than motorized. |
| Design |
Ergonomic Design: These chairs are designed to provide comfort during longer procedures. They often feature ergonomic shapes. Versatility: Procedure chairs can be configured for multiple types of procedures, such as dental work, minor surgeries, and specialized treatments. |
Basic Design: Exam tables are designed primarily for examinations and are usually simpler in design. They often feature a flat surface. Purpose-Built: Exam tables are specifically built for routine short-term use rather than lengthy procedures. |
| Mobility | Casters and Locking Mechanisms: Many procedure chairs have wheels for easy movement and locking mechanisms to keep them stable during use. | Stationary: Exam tables are typically stationary and may not have wheels. They are intended to stay in one place within the exam room. |
| Patient Comfort | Enhanced Comfort Features: Procedure chairs are typically designed with more padding and support to ensure patient comfort during extended procedures. | Basic Comfort Features: While they are padded, exam tables usually have less padding and fewer ergonomic features compared to procedure chairs, as they are intended for shorter periods of use. |
What are the Benefits of Procedure Chairs?
Procedure chairs offer numerous benefits to patients, medical staff, and medical facilities.
Here are some of the most common:
Benefits to Patients
Increased ComfortProcedure chairs are designed with patient comfort in mind. The ergonomic design and padding ensure that patients are as comfortable as possible during procedures.
Better Support During ProceduresThe adjustable nature of procedure chairs provides better support for patients, particularly during longer procedures. This support also helps maintain the desired position of the patient and reduces discomfort.
Reduced AnxietyA comfortable and supportive chair can help reduce patient anxiety.
Improved Overall ExperienceThe combination of comfort, support, and reduced anxiety contributes to an overall better experience for patients. This can lead to higher patient satisfaction and better outcomes.
Benefits to Medical Staff
Enhanced Ergonomics
Procedure chairs are designed to reduce physical strain on medical staff. The adjustability of these chairs allows healthcare providers to work in more comfortable positions, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.
Improved Efficiency
With the ability to adjust the chair quickly and easily, medical staff can perform procedures more efficiently. This leads to shorter procedure times and by extension the opportunity to see more patients.
Better Patient Access
The adjustable features of procedure chairs offer unobstructed access to the patient, making it easier to conduct thorough examinations and perform procedures.
Reduced Physical Strain
Procedure chairs help reduce the physical strain associated with repetitive tasks and awkward positions with variable height and component position adjustments.
Benefits to Medical Facilities
Economic Advantages
Long-term Cost SavingsAlthough procedure chairs may have a higher initial cost compared to exam tables, they offer long-term cost savings through improved efficiency, reduced maintenance, and better patient outcomes.
Increased Patient ThroughputThe efficiency gained from using procedure chairs offers medical facilities the opportunity to see more patients, potentially increasing overall revenue.
Reduced Maintenance CostsProcedure chairs are designed to be durable and require less maintenance compared to exam tables. This durability translates to lower maintenance costs over time.
Safety and Hygiene
Easy-to-clean SurfacesProcedure chairs are typically made with materials that are easy to clean and disinfect. This feature is crucial for maintaining a sterile environment and preventing infections.
Improved Infection ControlThe design of procedure chairs often includes features that minimize the risk of infection, such as seamless upholstery and antimicrobial materials.
Enhanced Safety FeaturesModern procedure chairs come with safety features such as locking mechanisms and stable bases, ensuring patient safety during procedures.
What Features are Important to Look for in Procedure Chairs?
When selecting procedure chairs, the most notable features to consider include:
- Adjustability: The procedure chair should offer multiple adjustment options for height, tilt, backrest, leg rests, and armrests to ensure comfort and accessibility for both patients and healthcare providers.
- Comfort: High-quality padding and ergonomic design are essential for patient comfort, especially during lengthy procedures. Upholstery should be durable, easy to clean, and resistant to stains and moisture.
- Stability and Safety: The chair must have a stable base and a weight capacity that accommodates a range of patients. Safety features like lockable wheels, anti-slip surfaces, and secure handrails are important to prevent accidents.
- Mobility: Easy maneuverability with smooth-rolling casters and a compact design allows for convenient positioning and relocation within the medical facility.
- Durability: Procedure chairs should be constructed with robust materials that withstand frequent use and cleaning. High-quality motors and mechanical parts ensure long-term reliability.
- Ease of Use: Intuitive controls for adjustments, including electric or hydraulic systems, facilitate quick and efficient operation. Some chairs offer programmable settings for frequently used positions.
- Versatility: Features like removable armrests, adjustable headrests, and attachment points for accessories make procedure chairs versatile, accommodating examinations, minor surgical procedures, or treatments.
- Hygiene: Easy-to-clean surfaces and materials that resist microbial growth help maintain a sterile environment. Seamless upholstery and minimal crevices reduce the risk of contamination.
- Accessibility: Features that accommodate patients with mobility issues, such as low entry height and easy transfer options, ensure inclusivity and patient dignity.
- Aesthetics: Modern design and color options that fit well within the clinical setting, promoting a professional and reassuring atmosphere for patients.
Collectively, these features help make procedure chairs the new essential for a wide range of medical settings.
Upgrading from exam tables to procedure chairs offers numerous benefits to both medical staff and patients. The advanced functionality, comfort, and efficiency offered by procedure chairs make them a valuable investment for today’s medical facilities. By improving patient care and streamlining workflows, procedure chairs contribute to better health outcomes and overall satisfaction.
Partner with CME Corp to Equip Your Facility with Procedure Chairs
In addition to helping to source the best procedure chairs for your needs and budget, CME Corp. is the only medical equipment distributor to offer logistics, direct-to-site, and biomedical services.
Our Logistics and Direct-To-Site service teams can receive, inspect, assemble (as needed), deliver, and install your procedure chair when it is convenient for you.
Inspecting and testing new equipment can drain the resources of a healthcare facility’s biomed team and delay the installation of new procedure chairs. Biomedical services have been at the heart of CME for over 35 years. With this expert experience we are ready to support your biomed team to ensure your examination chairs are installed, tested, and ready for service.
Our BMETs can also work with your facility to establish equipment maintenance and repair plans focused on ensuring the reliability of your procedure chair and compliance with applicable regulations.
Click CHAT to begin a conversation about your procedure chair needs with one of our experts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between an exam table and a procedure chair?
The primary difference lies in the design and functionality. Exam tables are typically flat and static, while procedure chairs are adjustable and offer greater comfort and support.
How does a procedure chair improve patient comfort?
Procedure chairs are designed with ergonomic features and padding to provide maximum comfort and support, reducing discomfort during procedures.
Are procedure chairs more expensive than exam tables?
Procedure chairs may have a higher initial cost, but they offer long-term cost savings through improved efficiency, reduced maintenance, and better patient outcomes.
What are the maintenance requirements for procedure chairs?
Procedure chairs are designed to be durable and require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and scheduled annual maintenance will keep them in good working condition.
About CME: CME Corp is the nation’s premier source for healthcare equipment, turnkey logistics, and biomedical services, representing 2 million+ products from more than 2,000 manufacturers. With two corporate offices and 35+ service centers, our mission is to help healthcare facilities nationwide reduce the cost of the equipment they purchase, make their equipment specification, delivery, installation, and maintenance processes more efficient, and help them seamlessly launch, renovate and expand on schedule.
