Why Hospitals Still Trust Manual Delivery Tables Over Fully Electric Options

In the evolving world of healthcare, the shift toward electric medical equipment has become a prominent trend, especially with the increasing focus on automation, efficiency, and convenience. However, when it comes to delivery tables, many hospitals continue to rely on manual delivery tables instead of fully electric models. While electric delivery tables offer certain benefits, manual options still hold a special place in many labor and delivery rooms. But why is this the case?

Affordability and Cost-Effectiveness

One of the primary reasons hospitals opt for manual delivery tables over fully electric alternatives is their lower cost. Electric delivery tables, while offering automated adjustments, come with a significantly higher price tag due to the advanced motors, sensors, and power components they require. For hospitals, particularly in low-resource settings or those with budget constraints, manual delivery tables provide an affordable option without compromising on essential functionality.

Lower Initial Investment: Manual delivery tables often come at a fraction of the price of electric models, making them a viable option for community health centers, small clinics, and rural hospitals.
Reduced Maintenance Costs: Manual tables have fewer moving parts and do not rely on electrical components that may require costly repairs. This reduces long-term maintenance costs for hospitals and healthcare providers.
Budget-Friendly for Emergency and Temporary Use: In emergency situations or temporary setups, manual delivery tables are often chosen because of their cost-effectiveness and ease of use.

Simplicity and Ease of Use

The simplicity of manual delivery tables is another significant factor that keeps them in high demand. In a high-pressure labor and delivery room, having equipment that can be adjusted quickly and easily can make a world of difference. Manual tables are user-friendly, require no complex controls or training, and can be easily operated by healthcare professionals with minimal effort.

Quick and Simple Adjustments: Manual tables often feature easy-to-operate levers or crank systems that allow labor and delivery personnel to adjust the table's height, tilt, or positioning in mere seconds. This is crucial when rapid interventions or position changes are required during labor.
No Power Dependency: One of the key advantages of manual tables is that they are independent of electricity. In areas with unreliable electricity or during power outages, manual delivery tables remain fully functional, ensuring that healthcare providers can proceed without interruptions.

Reliability and Durability

Hospitals need equipment that can withstand frequent use, be easy to clean, and provide consistent performance throughout long shifts. Manual delivery tables have a long track record of reliability, especially in settings where the focus is on patient care and ease of maintenance.

Minimal Downtime: Manual tables, with fewer electrical components, are less likely to break down or require repair compared to their electric counterparts. This is especially important in busy hospitals and clinics where downtime can result in delays and compromised patient care.
Longevity: Manual delivery tables are built to last. Since they lack the complex electrical systems that may wear out, these tables often have a longer operational lifespan, which reduces the frequency of replacements and keeps healthcare costs down.
Proven Track Record: Hospitals that have used manual delivery tables for decades often see minimal issues with the equipment, making them a trusted choice for maternal health.

Flexibility and Versatility

Manual delivery tables are designed to accommodate various birth positions, providing flexibility in labor and delivery. While electric tables may offer automated adjustments, manual tables provide the same functionality without reliance on electrical components.

Adaptable to Different Positions: Manual delivery tables can be easily adjusted to support different birth positions, whether it’s a traditional lithotomy position, squatting, or lateral position. This allows healthcare providers to make real-time adjustments based on the needs of the mother and baby.
Versatility in Diverse Settings: Whether it’s a hospital, home birth setting, or emergency care, manual delivery tables can easily be adjusted to the required position. They are particularly suitable for settings where mobility or space is limited.

Safety and Control

In obstetrics, the ability to maintain control over the delivery process is essential. While electric delivery tables are convenient, they can sometimes present challenges with fine-tuned adjustments, especially in urgent situations where precise positioning is required. Manual tables offer a level of hands-on control that some healthcare providers prefer, particularly during complicated births or emergency deliveries.

Direct Control for Quick Adjustments: In a stressful delivery room environment, healthcare providers often need to make fast, precise changes in table positioning. Manual tables provide the tactile feedback needed to make these adjustments quickly without the potential lag or risk of malfunction that can occur with electric systems.
Reduced Risk of Electrical Failures: Electric delivery tables, while convenient, depend on functioning electrical systems, which can sometimes fail in critical moments. Manual delivery tables are more reliable in environments with power issues, reducing the risk of breakdowns that could hinder delivery.

Comfort and Ergonomics for Healthcare Providers

While manual delivery tables are primarily designed for the comfort of the mother, they also play a crucial role in the ergonomics of the healthcare team. With manual models, healthcare providers can easily adjust the table to optimal heights to reduce strain and prevent injury during delivery procedures.

Adjustable Heights for Providers: Manual tables allow doctors, midwives, and other healthcare providers to set the table height at a level that is most comfortable for them, reducing physical strain during long hours of labor.
Ease of Transfer: Manual tables are often more compact and easier to move, allowing for smooth patient transfer, especially in emergency or transport situations.

Preferred for Certain Types of Births

In specific birth scenarios, such as home births, water births, or uncomplicated vaginal deliveries, manual delivery tables are often the preferred choice. Their simple, reliable design makes them well-suited for non-complex births or situations where electricity may not be available.

Home Births: In home birth settings, where electrical infrastructure may be limited, manual delivery tables offer a simple, reliable solution for the midwife or obstetrician.
Uncomplicated Births: For deliveries that proceed smoothly and without complications, many providers find that manual delivery tables are sufficient for positioning the mother and ensuring a comfortable and safe delivery.