FDA warns Medline electric beds pose fire risk after two deaths

The FDA warned that Medline electric beds can overheat and cause fires, after reports of two deaths and 16 serious injuries among users, CBS News reported. Medline said electrical components may overheat in certain conditions, including when components jam or the system is excessively loaded, and can smoke, spark, melt, burn or catch fire. The FDA alert also describes risks of electrical shock and burns.

Medline has also received reports of entrapment or asphyxiation risks involving beds used with accessories, loose or wobbly rails, or when a patient lies on a pendant, MedTech Dive reported. Medline notified customers it would discontinue the beds and related products and exit the market. CBS News reported Medline advised customers to stop using beds before modification, while MedTech Dive said updated instructions allow continued use until devices are repaired or replaced. Medline will repair certain beds. If a device is not eligible for repair, customers may receive a replacement or a full or partial refund. These options apply to devices bought in the past five years.