What type of bed is used for a patient that requires transfer from a stretcher?

A surgical bed is designed specifically for patients who are being transferred from a stretcher, particularly those who may need to undergo a surgical procedure. This type of bed is usually positioned at an appropriate height to facilitate easy transfer and often has the side rails up to ensure patient safety. The sheets on a surgical bed are typically placed to allow for rapid access to the patient, and the bed may be positioned to assist with movement onto or off the stretcher.

In contrast, an occupied bed is used for patients who are already in the bed, making it unsuitable for transfer purposes. An open bed is prepared for a new patient but is used when the patient will be getting into the bed shortly; it's not specifically designed to aid in transferring from other equipment like a stretcher. A closed bed, while neat and tidy, is typically made and is used when a patient is not expected to return immediately, which does not serve the purpose of facilitating smooth transfers. Therefore, the surgical bed is the optimal choice for transferring a patient from a stretcher due to its configuration and intended use.