Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the appropriate seat width is crucial to wheelchair users who invest longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which could cause sores or pressure points. Having too broad a seat can likewise make it challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in small areas.
To measure the proper seat width a person would sit on a chair generally and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is usually their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be used to determine this, but a lawn stick is preferred as it prevents people from covering the tape around their hips which would offer an unreliable result.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (basic adult), and 20" (wide grownup). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is readily available. This sturdy additional 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 included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's best point (typically their hips). This was implied to accommodate extra layers of clothes that may be used during winter. However, this practice is becoming less common as wheelchair users are able to spend more time indoors and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less crucial when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still essential to select an alternative that uses appropriate assistance for bigger users.
The Medline folding extra wide 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 elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it pertains to determining the right wheelchair seat width you should always determine from the user's widest point which is generally their hips. You will also require to think about whether the user is going to be wearing a winter season coat as this may include 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair is in use it should just be run on level surface areas with the wheel locks totally engaged. This is to prevent the chair from being able to move inclines that are 10 degrees or greater. It is likewise crucial to remember that any activity that may move the center of gravity in the chair need to be made with care. This consists of reaching for products that need the person to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is recommended that you frequently inspect it for damage and lube any areas that are considered needed. For instance, the casters must be oiled by getting rid of the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, bariatric wheel chair can be adjusted 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 very uneasy for the user and if left unattended, can cause pressure sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and much better equipped to handle falls. They are likewise normally larger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than basic wheelchairs. They need automobiles with special ramps and lifts to fill them, in addition to motorists who understand 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 factor in whether it will accommodate your guest's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is typically noted as a static load, implying that it indicates the amount of weight the chair can conveniently hold while stalling. However, some makers likewise note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can imitate the effect of someone sitting down in the chair. This may be a more reliable measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your needs.
If you prepare to perform activities that shift 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, examine that casters are lubricated routinely to avoid extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure involves getting rid of the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.