Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the right seat width is essential to wheelchair users who invest longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which might lead to sores or pressure points. Having bariatric high back wheelchair can also make it hard for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in little areas.
To measure the correct seat width an individual would sit on a chair typically and have their measurement taken across their lap at the best point which is usually their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be used to measure this, however a backyard stick is preferred as it prevents individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would provide an inaccurate outcome.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard grownup), and 20" (wide adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is available. This durable extra large bariatric wheelchair from Medline features 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
Generally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (usually their hips). This was meant to accommodate additional layers of clothes that may be used during winter. However, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users have the ability to spend more time indoors and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less crucial when picking a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still important to select an option that provides sufficient assistance for larger users.
The Medline folding additional broad bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfy 24" seat width and a sturdy slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it concerns figuring out the appropriate wheelchair seat width you must always measure from the user's largest point which is typically their hips. You will also need to think about whether the user is going to be using a winter season coat as this may include 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair is in usage it ought to only be operated on level surfaces with the wheel locks completely engaged. This is to prevent the chair from having the ability to move inclines that are 10 degrees or greater. It is likewise important to keep in mind that any activity that might shift the center of gravity in the chair must be finished with care. This includes grabbing items that require the person to lean out of their seat or trying to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is advised that you frequently examine it for damage and lubricate any areas that are deemed needed. For example, the casters should be oiled by eliminating the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Also, the foot plates can be changed by loosening up the bolt and after that moving them to the wanted position. This enables the feet to sit comfortably on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be very uncomfortable for the user and if left ignored, can cause push sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them stronger and better geared up to deal with falls. They are also usually larger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than basic wheelchairs. They require cars with unique ramps and lifts to fill them, as well as drivers who understand how to best transport them from one location to the next.
When choosing a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining consider whether it will accommodate your passenger's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is typically listed as a static load, meaning that it shows the amount of weight the chair can conveniently hold while stalling. However, some makers also list an active load that is based on a drop test and can replicate the impact of someone sitting down in the chair. This might be a more trusted measurement of the weight limit, depending on your needs.
If you plan to carry out activities that shift your center of mass in the seat (such as grabbing objects), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Likewise, inspect that casters are lubricated frequently to avoid extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure includes removing the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with top quality multi-purpose grease.