A patient support apparatus, such as a bed, cot, stretcher, etc., for supporting a patient includes an exit detection system with multiple user-selectable modes of operation that each have different sensitivity levels for triggering an exit alert. The exit detection system also includes one or more non-user selectable modes of operation that are automatically implemented in response to a triggering action. For example, a transition mode may be automatically implemented when the user attempts to switch from a first user-selectable mode to a different user selectable mode, or a motion mode may be automatically implemented when movement of one or more components of the patient support apparatus occurs. In the transition mode, the exit detection system may use a least restrictive sensitivity level. In the motion mode, the exit detection system may inhibit exit alerts and/or change the criteria for issuing the exit alert.