Oct 29 (Reuters) – The US Food and Drug Administration on Thursday warned of safety risks associated with Medline beds and accessories after the company reported two deaths and 16 serious injuries linked to fire, entrapment and asphyxiation hazards.
According to the regulator, Medline has told customers it is discontinuing and exiting the market for all Medline-branded beds and associated products, including homecare, bariatric and long-term care beds, as well as pendants, accessories and replacement parts.
Here are some details:
• The FDA said Medline identified a potential fire hazard involving beds, hand-control pendants, motor boxes and actuators
• As of October 20, the company had received reports of two deaths and 16 serious injuries associated with the issues
• The FDA said electrical components could overheat under certain conditions, potentially causing smoking, sparking, melting, burning or fire
• Medline initially notified customers on October 14 that it was removing the products from the market
• In an updated notice issued on October 24, the company said affected beds could continue to be used until they are repaired or replaced, provided users follow revised safety instructions
• The updated guidance advises users to unplug beds when not making adjustments and avoid using extension cords
• Medline did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment
(Reporting by Siddhi Mahatole in Bengaluru; Editing by Shailesh Kuber)
