Best High Back Chairs for Hospital Wards

In previous articles we have covered the main features and benefits of high back chairs in hospital wards, and how they compare with other types of seating.

In this latest post we look at the best types of high back chairs for hospital wards to invest in, the stand-out features to look for, and an overview of our own hospital high back chair which has just been launched, designed and exclusively manufactured by ourselves.

Jump straight to…

• • • • What are High Back Hospital Chairs?
      • The Importance of Appropriate Seating in Hospital Wards
      • Overview of High Back Chairs and their Benefits to Hospital Wards
      • Key Features of High Back Hospital Chairs
      • Factors to Consider When Selecting High Back Hospital Chairs
      • Best High Back Chairs for NHS Hospital Wards
      • Conclusion
      • FAQs

What are High Back Hospital Chairs?

The high back chairs that you see next to patient beds in NHS hospitals up and down the country are typically characterised by the following features:

Simple Design

The chairs are of a basic design and are usually constructed from a fixed steel or wooden frame, with a padded seat and backrest section, fixed armrests, and open sides.

Waterproof Fabric

Usually upholstered in a waterproof fabric such as vinyl or faux leather, which is robust enough to withstand heavy use and doesn’t rip easily. These fabrics are good for infection control as they can be wiped down with bleach and strong detergents.

Exposed Seat Frame

The frame of the chair is exposed so can be washed and wiped down without any internal areas of the chair where bacteria can ‘hide’.

Static

The chairs have a fixed position which cannot be adjusted. Some chairs have adjustable armrest or legrest height. Some have portering wheels on the back legs which allow them to be wheeled within the ward.

Typical hospital bedside seating

The Importance of Appropriate Seating in Hospital Wards

High-backed chairs are designed in such a way to keep the patient in an upright position. The slight seat rake gives a nice 90 degree sitting profile and stabilises the pelvis, the curved backrest supports the lumbar region, and the high back to support the head, neck and shoulders.

90 degree sitting profile

Sitting in this upright position and having the armrests at the right height helps the patient get out of the chair and regain their mobility faster, preventing deconditioning and longer hospital stays.

Overview of High Back Chairs and their Benefits to Hospital Wards

These one-size-fits-all chairs are useful for family and friends visiting hospital patients, doctors and nurses attending the patient’s bedside, and for performing routine checks like blood pressure, blood tests, etc.

They are also useful for patient waiting areas in hospital like A&E and consulting rooms.

Key Features of High Back Hospital Chairs

Ergonomic Design

Upholstered with medium-density foam and height adjustable legs, high backed chairs are designed for ergonomic positioning. The slightly curved backrest promotes a healthy spinal curve, with support in the lumbar region.

Durability and Materials

Built to last, the strong metal box-section or wood frame provides stability for patients, particularly when using the chair for support when standing up or sitting down.

Infection Control and Hygiene

With an exposed frame and minimal recesses where bacteria can hide, the chair is designed for infection control. The lacquered wood or metal frame provides a smooth surface for wiping down, and the hygiene gap between the seat and backrest prevents the ingress of bacteria.

Patient Comfort and Support

Patient comfort and support can be enhanced with extra seat padding, gel overlays or memory foam built into the seat. Armrests pads and head cushions can be added for greater comfort and support.

Factors to Consider When Selecting High Back Hospital Chairs

Patient Mobility and Needs

Depending on the type of illness and length of stay, patients in different wards will need different levels of rehabilitation. Standard high back chairs are particularly useful for geriatric and post-surgery wards, where patients need a chair that is easy to stand from and can be used as part of a physio regime to get mobile again. For longer term stays and Critical Care Units, higher pressure relief and adjustability might be needed.

Ward Space and Configuration

The standard ward layout is usually beds facing each other on both sides of the ward. Busier wards like A&E have less available space between beds. The weight and portability of the chair can help in these busier wards, by being able to push the chair easily from one side of the bed to another or move around the patient, rather that lifting a heavy unwieldy chair.

Compliance with UK Healthcare Standards

Complying with high infection control standards is essential, with the high volume and usage of these chairs. Practicality of cleaning the chair is a key factor, alongside the antimicrobial properties of the chair materials themselves.

Best High Back Chairs for NHS Hospital Wards

High Backed Bedside Chair

High Backed Bedside Chair

Overview:

This lightweight ward chair was developed for optimal infection control and ease of use. The push-pin mechanism on the legs gives height adjustment for different patients and the drop-down arms aid side transfers from bed to chair.

Key Features:

• • • • • Powder-coated steel frame
        • Lacquered wood armrests
        • Antimicrobial fabric
        • Height adjustable legs
        • Seat gap for easy sling access
        • Pressure-relieving memory foam
        • Transit castors for easy movement

Specifications:

• • • • • Flame retardant upholstery
        • Product weight 21kg
        • Max user weight 190kg
        • Meets BS 7176:2007 and ISO9001:2015 quality standards.
        • A bariatric version is available with a wider, heavy-duty frame that can support patients up to 222kg.

Arvada Hospital Chair

Overview:

This high back patient chair has a robust metal frame, supporting infection control whilst being relatively maintenance-free.

Key Features:

• • • • • 25 year frame warranty for low lifecycle cost
        • Replaceable arms, seat and back
        • Ergonomic armrests to support patients standing up and sitting down
        • Removeable seat cushion to improve infection control

Specifications:

• • • • • Max user weight 200kg

Vivid.Care HiBack Bedside Chair

HiBack Bedside Chair

Overview:

The launch of our new HiBack Bedside Chair has opened up a whole new era for hospital ward seating, turning the traditional ward chair on its head.

This chair fixes many of the pain points experienced with the existing hospital bedside chairs, such as being difficult to move, cumbersome, hard and uncomfortable, chipped and splintered wood, and awkward clunky mechanisms.

Our high back chair sets itself out from the crowd, being the only hospital high back chair where all seat dimensions are adjustable, and patients can change their posture by adjusting the sitting angle and armrests. This brings levels of comfort and pressure relief right to the bedside of hospital patients that has never previously been experienced.

Key Features:

• • • • • Adjustable seat width, depth and height. Simple adjustment mechanisms with minimal effort.
        • Adjustable lumbar support to change firmness and position
        • Rounded edges to prevent skin damage
        • Large base plate for extra stability
        • Visco foam and 4-way stretch upholstery for extra pressure relief
        • Welded polypropylene frame that is bacteria resistant and lightweight
        • Removeable arms and cushions for easy cleaning and side transfers
        • Transport wheels and ergonomic handle make it easy to move chair into position

Specifications:

• • • • • Max user weight 150kg
        • 5 year frame warranty
        • Seat width 16-20”
        • Seat depth 19-21”
        • Seat height 16-21”

Conclusion

Choosing the right high back chair for hospital wards is essential to meet the diverse needs of patients, visitors, and healthcare professionals while maintaining hygiene, durability, and compliance with UK healthcare standards. The high back chairs mentioned in this article each offer unique features and benefits, from ergonomic design and infection control to comfort and mobility support.

Investing in high-quality, thoughtfully designed seating solutions can not only improve patient recovery and comfort but also streamline day-to-day ward operations for healthcare staff.

The Vivid.Care HiBack Chair stands out with unmatched adjustability, comfort, and ease of use, setting a new benchmark for hospital ward seating. When selecting the best high back chair, consider patient needs, ward configurations, and hygiene requirements to make a choice that ensures both practicality and patient care excellence.

FAQs

1. What is a high back hospital chair?

A high back hospital chair is a type of chair designed with an extended backrest to provide additional support to the upper back, shoulders, and neck, often used in healthcare settings for patient comfort.

2. Why are high back chairs important in hospital wards?

High back chairs offer ergonomic support, improve posture, and ensure comfort for patients who may spend extended periods sitting. They also aid in recovery by providing proper body support.

3. What are the key features to look for in a high back hospital chair?

• • • • • Adjustable height
        • Padded armrests
        • Easy-to-clean materials
        • Durability and weight capacity
        • Ergonomic design for back and lumbar support

4. Are high back hospital chairs suitable for elderly patients?

Yes, high back hospital chairs are especially beneficial for elderly patients as they provide added support and comfort, often featuring adjustable options to accommodate limited mobility.

5. How do I clean and maintain a high back hospital chair?

Most hospital chairs are made of materials that are easy to clean, such as vinyl or antimicrobial fabrics. Regularly wipe down the surfaces with disinfectant and check for wear and tear to maintain hygiene and durability.

6. Can high back chairs be used in waiting areas or outpatient clinics?

Yes, high back chairs are versatile and can be used in various hospital settings, including waiting areas, outpatient clinics, and patient rooms, to ensure comfort for patients and visitors.

7. Can I get a high back hospital chair with wheels for mobility?

Yes, some high back hospital chairs come with wheels or castors, making it easier to move patients or reposition the chair within hospital wards.

8. What is the weight capacity of a high back hospital chair?

The weight capacity varies by model but typically ranges from 100kg to 200kg. Bariatric chairs are available for patients requiring higher weight support.

9. Are there eco-friendly options for high back hospital chairs?

Some manufacturers offer chairs made with sustainable or recyclable materials. Look for eco-friendly certifications when selecting a chair.

10. How do high back chairs support patient recovery?

High back chairs provide proper posture alignment, reduce pressure on the spine, and offer a comfortable seating option, which can help patients recover more effectively, especially after surgeries or prolonged bed rest.

11. Can I customise high back hospital chairs?

Many manufacturers offer customisation options, such as choosing specific colours, fabrics, or features like adjustable headrests, to suit hospital branding or patient needs.