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 move themselves or maneuver in little areas.
To determine the proper seat width an individual would rest on a chair typically and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the widest point which is normally their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be used to measure this, however a yard stick is preferred as it avoids people from wrapping the tape around their hips which would provide an unreliable result.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (basic grownup), and 20" (broad adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is available. This sturdy 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
Traditionally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (usually their hips). This was indicated to accommodate additional layers of clothing that might be worn during winter. Nevertheless, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users are able to invest more time inside your home and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less important when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still essential to pick an option that uses sufficient assistance for bigger users.
The Medline folding extra 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 raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it comes to determining the proper wheelchair seat width you need to always measure from the user's best point which is normally their hips. You will also require to think about whether the user is going to be using a winter coat as this might add 2" to the width required.
When a wheelchair remains in usage it must just be run on level surfaces with the wheel locks completely engaged. This is to prevent the chair from having the ability to move slopes that are 10 degrees or higher. It is likewise essential to bear in mind that any activity that might move the center of gravity in the chair should be made with care. This consists of reaching for products that require the person to lean out of their seat or trying to stand from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is advised that you regularly examine it for damage and oil any locations that are considered necessary. For example, the casters should be oiled by eliminating the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Likewise, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening up the bolt and after that 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 unpleasant for the user and if left unattended, can cause pressure sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. bariatric self propelled wheelchair makes them tougher and much better equipped to manage falls. They are also typically bigger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than basic wheelchairs. They need automobiles with special ramps and lifts to pack them, as well as drivers who know how to finest transport them from one location to the next.
When choosing a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining consider whether it will accommodate your passenger's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is frequently listed as a static load, meaning that it indicates the quantity of weight the chair can easily hold while stalling. However, some producers likewise list an active load that is based on a drop test and can imitate the result of somebody sitting down in the chair. This may be a more reliable measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your needs.
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. Also, inspect that casters are oiled routinely to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment includes getting rid of the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.