There are several different options when it comes to over bed hospital lights and lamps. Typically most over bed hospital lights will use a standard T8 lamp, which means that each light will take the same type of replacement lamp, making it easy for maintenance as well as purchasing. Generally the over bed hospital lights will have either 2, 3 or four separate lamps within the light, depending on the style, model and size of the light itself. Two lamp over bed hospital lights provide a good amount of light if there is overhead lighting in the room or lots of natural light provided by windows or other open areas in the room. Two lamp over bed hospital lights will require that the lamp be replaced immediately since there will be a decrease in light provided with only one lamp working. Three and four lamp over bed hospital lights can work with one lamp out, however not all lighting options on the three pull types of switches will work, depending on which lamp is out. These types of multiple lamp over bed hospital lights are recommended for patient or hospital areas with less natural light or lower levels of overhead light. Are there different styles of over bed hospital lights that will match with most hospital and health care décor? There are several different styles of over bed hospital lights and all are designed to blend in with standard hospital, health care, nursing home or other types of facility décor and design. Generally most over bed hospital lights will be colonial or traditional in design or more streamlined and modern in appearance. The colonial design is molded with rounded corners and detailing on the front and sides of the fixtures. Hinges on the front part of the aluminum fixture easily open to allow options to completely clean the lights and fixtures or to replace burned out lamps. The modern design of over bed hospital lights has a unique feature in that it slants forward to form a wedge shape when viewed from the side. This prevents patients from storing items on the light's top surface, plus it adds an interesting and eye catching aspect to the room. These over bed hospital lights are also designed to be easy to clean and very easy to change out any lamps as needed. What is the advantage of four foot over bed hospital lights to three foot lights? The difference in an additional length of light on either side of the bed is important in many different situations. Four foot over bed hospital lights are going to provide additional brightness to the room, plus may also make moving patients and dealing with IV readings easier for staff. This is because there will be a greater distribution of light with four foot over bed hospital lights than with the same type of light in a three foot model. Of course the number of lamps will also help to increase brightness under all circumstances.