Examination table
An examination table (or exam table) is used to support patients during medical examinations. During these exams, doctors in offices (UK: surgeries), clinics and hospitals use an adjusting mechanism to manipulate and position the table to allow patient support, closer examination of a portion or the entire patient, and the ability to move the patient on and off the table safely.[1] Examination tables often have rolls of paper which the patient sits or lies on, to protect the table. The paper is normally discarded after each patient uses the table.
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Examination tables have included electric motors since the 1970s. These are fitted underneath the tabletop and power cables generally detach to prevent a tripping hazard. The ability to transfer power forward and backwards using a reversible electric motor means greater mobility of the examination table.[2]
See also
- Medical facility
- Operating table
- Ambulatory care
References
- Physical Examination | Definition and Patient Education
- US patent 4057240, Damico, Frank M. and Raymond D. Nass, "Examination table", issued 1977-11-08
Further reading
- Australian Nursing Federation Non lifting policy
- Art Project Narratives on a Gynaecological Exam Table
- RACGP regulations for OH&S criterion on examination tables