Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the correct seat width is necessary to wheelchair users who spend longer durations 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 challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in little spaces.
To determine the proper seat width an individual would sit on a chair typically and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the widest point which is normally their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be used to determine this, but a lawn stick is chosen as it prevents individuals from wrapping the tape around their hips which would provide an incorrect outcome.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard grownup), and 20" (wide adult). For bariatric clients, 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
Traditionally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's largest point (generally their hips). This was indicated to accommodate extra layers of clothing that might be worn during cold weather. However, this practice is becoming less common as wheelchair users are able to spend more time indoors and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair lesser when picking a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still crucial to select an option that offers sufficient assistance for larger users.
The Medline folding additional wide bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfortable 24" seat width and a sturdy slide tube silver vein frame. self propelled bariatric wheelchair has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it pertains to determining the appropriate wheelchair seat width you ought to constantly 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 required.
When a wheelchair remains in use it need to just be run on level surface areas with the wheel locks completely engaged. This is to prevent the chair from being able to move inclines that are 10 degrees or greater. It is likewise important to bear in mind that any activity that might move the center of mass in the chair should be done with care. This includes reaching for products that need the person to lean out of their seat or trying to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in usage it is suggested that you frequently inspect it for damage and lubricate any locations that are deemed required. For example, the casters should be oiled by eliminating the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Also, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening the bolt and then moving them to the preferred position. This enables 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 lead to press sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better equipped to manage falls. They are likewise usually bigger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than basic wheelchairs. They need cars with unique ramps and lifts to fill them, in addition to chauffeurs who understand how to finest transport them from one place to the next.
When selecting a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining consider whether it will accommodate your traveler's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is frequently listed as a static load, suggesting that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can conveniently hold while stalling. Nevertheless, some manufacturers likewise note an active load that is based on a drop test and can imitate the effect of somebody sitting down in the chair. This might be a more reliable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your needs.
If you plan to perform activities that shift your center of gravity in the seat (such as grabbing items), make sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Also, check that casters are lubed regularly to avoid excessive 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 high-quality multi-purpose grease.
