How to Choose the Right Hospital Trolley for Your Department

Hospital trolleys are more than just transport tools, they are essential assets for daily operations across ICUs, OTs, and general wards. The right trolley boosts efficiency, improves staff workflow, and enhances patient care. But how do you choose the right one for your department? This guide will walk you through everything you need to consider, with visual aids and practical tips.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Trolley

1. Identify the Department Specific Use Case

Each medical department has unique needs. Select a trolley based on use case alignment:

Recommended Trolleys by Department:

• ICU/Emergency: Crash Carts, Resuscitation Trolleys

• OT (Operation Theatre): Instrument Trolleys, Mayo Trolleys

• General Wards: Medicine Trolleys, Dressing Trolleys

• Nursing Stations: Records Trolleys, Linen Trolleys

2. Understand Material Importance

Material determines durability, hygiene, and mobility.

Common Materials:

• SS-304 Stainless Steel – corrosion resistant, ideal for wet zones

• Powder Coated Steel – affordable, used in dry zones

• ABS Plastic Drawers – lightweight and bacteria resistant

3. Evaluate Functional Features

Look for trolleys with the following key features:

Must Have Functionalities:

• 360° swivel castors with dual brakes

• Modular drawer systems with color coding

• Integrated IV pole or oxygen cylinder holders

• Waste bin and utility basket attachments

• Shock proof and anti static wheels (for ICUs)

4. Hygiene & Safety Factors

Infection control is non-negotiable in any hospital.

Safety Checklist:

• Rounded edges and corner guards

• Anti bacterial surface coatings

• Autoclavable or UV-resistant trays

• Lockable drawers for medicine security

5. Consider Customization Options

Modern hospitals need tailored furniture. Look for brands offering:

• Custom color options

• Drawer labeling systems

• Additional attachment slots

• Electrical outlet panels for ICU carts

6. Balance Budget with Lifecycle Value

While cheap units may look appealing, they usually require frequent repairs or replacements.

Cost Comparison Tip:

• SS-304 units last 2–3x longer than budget alternatives

• Consider ROI over 5 years instead of upfront price

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FAQ Section

Q1: What is the standard size of a hospital trolley?

A: Sizes vary by function, but most standard trolleys are 900–1100mm in length, 450–600mm in width, and 900–1100mm in height.

Q2: What certifications should I look for when buying a trolley?

A: Look for CE or ISO certifications, especially if using in high risk zones like ICU or OT.

Q3: Are hospital trolleys designed for specific departments or are they multi-purpose?

A: While hospital trolley for your department like crash carts or dressing trolleys are specialised, many models are versatile enough for use across departments such as general wards, ICUs, and nursing stations provided the features align with your workflow.

Q4: How many wheels should a hospital trolley have?

A: All standard medical trolleys have 4 wheels (castors), preferably 2 with locking mechanisms for safety.

Q5: What makes SS-304 the preferred material?

A: SS-304 is rust-proof, bacteria resistant, easy to clean, and complies with hospital-grade hygiene standards.