Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the right seat width is important to wheelchair users who spend longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which could lead to sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can also make it difficult for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in small areas.
To measure the proper seat width an individual would rest on a chair generally and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is normally their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be utilized to determine this, however a yard stick is preferred as it avoids people from wrapping the tape around their hips which would offer an inaccurate outcome.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (basic adult), and 20" (large adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is available. have a peek at these guys from Medline includes swing-away footrests, a carbon steel frame with rust- and chip-resistant chrome plating, and easy-to-clean vinyl upholstery. It has a weight capacity of 500 pounds.
Seat Depth
Typically, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's largest point (usually their hips). This was indicated to accommodate additional layers of clothes that may be worn throughout winter. Nevertheless, this practice is becoming less typical as wheelchair users are able to invest more time indoors and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less important when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still important to select an alternative that uses sufficient support for bigger users.
The Medline folding extra broad bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfy 24" seat width and a heavy-duty slide tube silver vein frame. It likewise has an adjustable axle and tool-free raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it pertains to identifying the appropriate wheelchair seat width you ought to always measure from the user's widest point which is normally their hips. You will likewise need to consider whether the user is going to be wearing a winter season coat as this may add 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair is in usage it need to just be operated on level surfaces with the wheel locks totally engaged. This is to prevent the chair from being able to move slopes that are 10 degrees or higher. It is also essential to remember that any activity that may move the center of mass in the chair need to be done with care. This consists of grabbing items that need the individual to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in usage it is recommended that you frequently inspect it for damage and lube any areas that are considered necessary. For example, the casters must be lubed by removing the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, the foot plates can be changed by loosening the bolt and then moving them to the wanted position. This permits the feet to sit conveniently on the footplate and avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be really uneasy for the user and if left unattended, can lead to push sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better geared up to manage falls. They are also normally larger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They need cars with special ramps and lifts to fill them, in addition to motorists who understand how to finest transport them from one place to the next.
When selecting a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining element in whether it will accommodate your traveler's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is typically listed as a static load, suggesting that it indicates the amount of weight the chair can easily hold while stalling. Nevertheless, some manufacturers likewise note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can imitate the impact of somebody sitting down in the chair. This might be a more reputable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your requirements.
If you plan to carry out activities that shift your center of gravity in the seat (such as grabbing things), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Likewise, check that casters are oiled frequently to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment involves eliminating the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.