Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the correct seat width is very important to wheelchair users who invest longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which could cause sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can likewise make it hard for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in small areas.
To measure the appropriate seat width an individual would rest on a chair typically and have their measurement taken across their lap at the widest point which is normally their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be used to measure this, but a lawn stick is preferred as it avoids people from wrapping the tape around their hips which would give an incorrect outcome.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (basic grownup), and 20" (large adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is available. This sturdy extra broad bariatric wheelchair 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
Traditionally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (generally their hips). This was implied to accommodate additional layers of clothes that may be worn throughout cold weather. However, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users are able to spend more time inside your home and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less crucial when selecting a bariatric wheelchair . However, it is still essential to pick an option that offers sufficient support for larger users.
The Medline folding extra large bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfortable 24" seat width and a heavy-duty slide tube silver vein frame. It likewise has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it comes to figuring out the correct wheelchair seat width you must constantly determine from the user's widest point which is usually their hips. You will also require to consider whether the user is going to be using a winter season coat as this may add 2" to the width required.
When a wheelchair remains in usage it should only be operated on level surfaces with the wheel locks fully engaged. This is to avoid the chair from having the ability to move inclines that are 10 degrees or greater. It is likewise important to bear in mind that any activity that may move the center of gravity in the chair ought to be done with care. This consists of reaching for items that need the person to lean out of their seat or trying to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in usage it is suggested that you frequently check it for damage and lubricate any locations that are considered necessary. For example, the casters must be oiled by eliminating the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening the bolt and after that moving them to the wanted position. This enables the feet to sit conveniently on the footplate and avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be very unpleasant 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 stronger and much better geared up to deal with falls. They are also usually larger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They require automobiles with special ramps and lifts to fill them, along with chauffeurs who know how to finest transport them from one place to the next.
When picking a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining element in whether it will accommodate your traveler's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is typically noted as a static load, implying that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can conveniently hold while stalling. However, some manufacturers likewise note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can mimic the impact of someone sitting down in the chair. This may be a more dependable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your requirements.
If you prepare to carry out activities that move your center of mass in the seat (such as reaching for objects), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Likewise, inspect that casters are lubed frequently to avoid excessive wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure involves removing the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with high-quality multi-purpose grease.