Abstract: A variable height bed for use in hospitals, extended care facilities and the like. The bed incorporates a base or stationary frame and an elevating frame interconnected and nesting with the stationary frame. The elevating frame has an operative range of about twenty inches, from a minimum height of approximately ten inches above the floor to a maximum of approximately twenty nine inches above the floor. The bed structure provides for substantial clearance under its midsection and includes means for elevating without the use of a manual cranking operation. Guard rails located along the sides of the bed can be moved completely out of the way of the bed sides when required; and means are provided for immobilizing the bed at any location of the elevating frame.