Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the appropriate seat width is important to wheelchair users who spend longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which could result in sores or pressure points. Having too large a seat can likewise make it difficult for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in little spaces.
To determine the appropriate seat width a person would rest on a chair generally and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the widest point which is normally their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be utilized to measure this, but a yard stick is preferred as it avoids people from wrapping the tape around their hips which would offer an unreliable outcome.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (standard grownup), and 20" (broad grownup). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is readily available. This sturdy extra wide 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 (typically their hips). This was indicated to accommodate extra layers of clothing that might be worn throughout winter. However, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users are able to invest more time indoors and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less important when picking a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still important to choose an option that uses adequate assistance for larger users.
The Medline folding extra wide bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfortable 24" seat width and a durable slide tube silver vein frame. It likewise has an adjustable axle and tool-free raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it concerns determining the appropriate wheelchair seat width you must constantly determine from the user's widest point which is generally their hips. You will also need to think about whether the user is going to be using a winter season coat as this might include 2" to the width required.
When a wheelchair is in use it ought to just be operated on level surface areas with the wheel locks fully engaged. This is to avoid the chair from having the ability to move slopes that are 10 degrees or greater. It is likewise crucial to keep in mind that any activity that may shift the center of mass in the chair need to be finished with care. This includes grabbing products that require the person 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 regularly check it for damage and lubricate any locations that are deemed necessary. For instance, the casters need to be oiled by getting rid of the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, the foot plates can be changed by loosening up the bolt and after that moving them to the desired position. This enables the feet to sit conveniently on the footplate and avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be very uncomfortable for the user and if left unattended, can result in push sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and better equipped to handle falls. They are likewise normally bigger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They require lorries with unique ramps and lifts to pack them, in addition to motorists 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 primary determining element in whether it will accommodate your guest's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is often noted as a static load, suggesting that it shows the quantity of weight the chair can conveniently hold while stalling. However, lightweight bariatric transport wheelchair note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can simulate the result of somebody taking a seat in the chair. This may be a more dependable 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), make sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Likewise, check that casters are lubricated regularly 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 top quality multi-purpose grease.