Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the proper seat width is essential to wheelchair users who spend longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which might lead to sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can also make it hard for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in little spaces.
To determine the correct seat width an individual would rest on a chair generally and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is typically their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be utilized to determine this, however a yard stick is chosen as it avoids people from wrapping the tape around their hips which would provide an inaccurate result.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (basic grownup), and 20" (broad grownup). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is readily available. This heavy-duty 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
Generally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (typically their hips). This was indicated to accommodate additional layers of clothing that may be worn during cold weather. However, this practice is ending up being less typical as wheelchair users are able to spend more time indoors and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less important when selecting a bariatric wheelchair . Nevertheless, it is still essential to choose an option that offers appropriate support for larger users.
The Medline folding additional wide bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfortable 24" seat width and a heavy-duty slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it pertains to identifying the correct wheelchair seat width you should constantly determine from the user's best point which is typically their hips. You will likewise need to think about whether the user is going to be wearing a winter coat as this may add 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair is in usage it ought to just be run on level surfaces with the wheel locks fully engaged. This is to prevent the chair from being able to move slopes that are 10 degrees or greater. It is also essential to keep in mind that any activity that may move the center of gravity in the chair ought to be finished with care. This consists of reaching for products that require the individual to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is advised that you routinely inspect it for damage and lube any locations that are deemed necessary. For instance, the casters must be oiled by eliminating the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening the bolt and then moving them to the desired 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 lead to push sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are developed to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and better equipped to deal with falls. They are also normally larger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They require lorries with unique ramps and lifts to load them, in addition to motorists who understand how to finest transport them from one area to the next.
When picking a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining factor in whether it will accommodate your traveler's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is typically listed as a fixed load, suggesting that it suggests the quantity of weight the chair can conveniently hold while standing still. However, some manufacturers also note an active load that is based on a drop test and can replicate 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 perform activities that shift your center of mass in the seat (such as grabbing objects), make sure to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Likewise, inspect that casters are lubed frequently to avoid extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment includes removing the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.