Abstract: Methods and systems for connecting a patient support apparatus to a hospital network and locating the patient support apparatus are provided. A patient support apparatus is associated with a communication device having a first and second communication interface for transmitting and/or receiving a first and second type of wireless signal. The patient support apparatus is electrically connected to a node serving as a power output and a wireless communication system connected to the hospital network. In response to the electrical connection, the communication device activates the first communication interface to form a wireless link with the node. In response to the patient support apparatus being electrically disconnected from the node, the communication device activates the second communication interface. The patient support apparatus is located by the node based on the second type of wireless signal.

Abstract: A brake system for a patient support apparatus including at least one wheel is disclosed. The brake system comprises a braking mechanism to be operatively coupled to at least one wheel of the patient support apparatus. The braking mechanism includes a first coupling portion movable between a lock position for locking the corresponding wheel, and an unlock position for allowing rotation of the wheel. The brake system comprises an actuating tool comprising a second coupling portion complementary to the first coupling portion of the braking mechanism and allowing removably connecting the actuating tool to the braking mechanism of the patient support apparatus. The first and second coupling portions are adapted for allowing engagement between the braking mechanism and the actuating tool to urge the braking mechanism between the lock and unlock positions, and are further adapted for allowing disengagement of the actuating tool from the braking mechanism.

Abstract: A brake system for a patient support apparatus including at least one wheel is disclosed. The brake system comprises a braking mechanism to be operatively coupled to at least one wheel of the patient support apparatus. The braking mechanism includes a first coupling portion movable between a lock position for locking the corresponding wheel, and an unlock position for allowing rotation of the wheel. The brake system comprises an actuating tool comprising a second coupling portion complementary to the first coupling portion of the braking mechanism and allowing removably connecting the actuating tool to the braking mechanism of the patient support apparatus. The first and second coupling portions are adapted for allowing engagement between the braking mechanism and the actuating tool to urge the braking mechanism between the lock and unlock positions, and are further adapted for allowing disengagement of the actuating tool from the braking mechanism.