Abstract: A signal activating device for activating a nurse call system as commonly used in hospitals and nursing homes to summon the attending personnel for assistance, wherein an elongate bar having circuitry electrically interconnected to the call system is supported on the railing structure of a bed or chair so as to extend transversely thereacross in a readily accessible location over a midportion of the body of a person in the bed or chair. A hollow tube is fitted over the bar in engaging, supported relation on a number of electric switches mounted at spaced intervals along the bar's length such that pressure applied by the person to any location along the upper portion of the tube serves to operate at least one electric switch on the bar, thereby activating the nurse call system.

Abstract: A bed lighting apparatus is set forth wherein at least one, elongate elastomeric pad switch member is arranged between a mattress and box spring of an associated bed. Upon an individual arising from the bed, contact is made within the switch to illuminate a series of lights of conventional configuration, or alternatively LED lighting may be utilized. A manual over-ride switch is also utilized.