unallocated bed

unallocated bed

A bed in hospital which is not currently in use (e.g., because it is in an area of the hospital which has never been opened, or has been closed but may be re-opened), but could be used if in need. Unallocated beds may be lent to a specialty on a temporary basis, which may occur when beds normally available to a specialty are not, due to ward upgrading, maintenance or other reasons. The specialty may then borrow the unallocated bed.