Abstract: A patient support apparatus—such as a bed, stretcher, cot, chair, operating table, or the like—includes at least one electrical connector having at least one magnet integrated therein for magnetically retaining the connector with a complementary connector. The connector and the complementary connector may be designed such that they are retained together substantially only by magnetic forces, rather than frictional forces. Multiple magnets may be included within the connectors such that the connectors only couple together in a specific orientation. The connector may connect the patient support apparatus to a mattress positioned thereon, to a wall outlet, to a removable footboard or headboard, to a removable pedestal, or to other devices. The connector may include an internal safety switch that turns on a high voltage connection only when a low voltage connection is established.

Abstract: A patient support apparatus—such as a bed, stretcher, cot, chair, operating table, or the like—includes at least one electrical connector having at least one magnet integrated therein for magnetically retaining the connector with a complementary connector. The connector and the complementary connector may be designed such that they are retained together substantially only by magnetic forces, rather than frictional forces. Multiple magnets may be included within the connectors such that the connectors only couple together in a specific orientation. The connector may connect the patient support apparatus to a mattress positioned thereon, to a wall outlet, to a removable footboard or headboard, to a removable pedestal, or to other devices. The connector may include an internal safety switch that turns on a high voltage connection only when a low voltage connection is established.