Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the appropriate seat width is very important to wheelchair users who invest longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which might cause sores or pressure points. Having too large a seat can also make it difficult for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in little spaces.
To measure the correct seat width an individual would rest on a chair typically and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is usually their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be used to determine this, but a yard stick is chosen as it prevents 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" (large grownup). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is offered. This heavy-duty additional 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 included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (usually their hips). This was meant to accommodate additional layers of clothing that may be worn throughout winter. However, this practice is becoming less common as wheelchair users are able to invest more time indoors and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less important when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still crucial to pick a choice that uses adequate assistance 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 also has an adjustable axle and tool-free raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it comes to identifying the appropriate wheelchair seat width you ought to always determine from the user's best point which is normally their hips. You will likewise require to think about whether the user is going to be wearing a winter season coat as this may add 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair remains in usage it need to only be run on level surfaces with the wheel locks completely engaged. This is to avoid the chair from being able to move slopes that are 10 degrees or greater. It is also essential to bear in mind that any activity that might shift the center of gravity in the chair ought to be done with care. This consists of reaching for items that require the individual to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand from it.
Whenever you have the chair in usage it is suggested that you frequently check it for damage and oil any locations that are deemed essential. For example, the casters should be lubed by removing the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Also, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening up the bolt and after that moving them to the desired position. This allows the feet to sit comfortably on the footplate and avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be very unpleasant for the user and if left ignored, can result in push sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and much better equipped to manage falls. They are likewise generally bigger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They need cars with unique ramps and lifts to pack them, along with motorists who know how to best transport them from one place to the next.
When choosing a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining consider whether it will accommodate your passenger's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is often noted as a static load, implying that it suggests the quantity of weight the chair can conveniently hold while stalling. However, some makers also note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can imitate the impact of somebody taking a seat in the chair. This may be a more trusted measurement of the weight limit, depending on your requirements.
If you plan to carry out activities that move your center of mass in the seat (such as reaching for things), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Likewise, inspect that self propelled bariatric wheelchair are oiled routinely to prevent excessive wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment involves getting rid of the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with high-quality multi-purpose grease.