What is a Mobile Computer Cart?

A mobile computer cart is also known as a point-of-care cart. This mobile workstation allows hospital staff to transport a laptop or desktop computer, complete with an onboard power system, to patient care locations. The cart offers space to use a high-resolution monitor, desktop PCs, and a wide range of other electronic devices.

How to Find the Best Mobile Computer Cart

When searching for a mobile medical computer trolley cart or medication cart, look for the following essential characteristics.

Maneuverability

One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a mobile computer cart is maneuverability. The cart should be easy to maneuver in confined spaces, where tight corners and floor surfaces vary.

Multi-surface casters that swivel are the perfect mobility solution. Nurses and doctors need to transport carts through narrow doorways and cluttered hallways, especially when carrying heavy equipment. A narrow wheelbase and swiveling casters allow for optional portability.

In addition, a mobile laptop computer trolley cart should be compact and relatively lightweight. Reducing bulk and the resulting footprint increases the maneuverability of the system and the number of locations suitable for locking it in place.

When you’ve found a suitable location for your cart, the casters should lock in place, providing security when interacting with patients. A caster is not a wheel but an assembly, including the part that attaches the wheel to the cart. The assembly should feature a foot-activated locking mechanism to prevent the cart from rolling when in use.

Hot-Swappable Battery Power System

Non-powered mobile carts do not provide the versatility of carts that use onboard battery systems. The need to keep mobile computer carts charged and running is critical when you’re on the clock and need to respond to patient demands.

Not only does the mobile cart’s power system need to keep your desktop PC operational for several hours, but it should also allow for hot swapping. This ensures your cart and electronics continue operating without interruption.