Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the proper seat width is very important to wheelchair users who spend longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which could cause sores or pressure points. Having bariatric wheel chair can likewise make it challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in little spaces.
To measure the appropriate seat width a person would sit on a chair generally and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the best point which is typically their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be utilized to determine this, but a lawn stick is chosen as it prevents individuals from wrapping the tape around their hips which would give an inaccurate outcome.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard adult), and 20" (wide grownup). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is offered. This heavy-duty additional wide 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
Traditionally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (normally their hips). This was suggested to accommodate extra layers of clothes that may be used throughout cold weather. Nevertheless, this practice is becoming less common as wheelchair users are able to invest more time inside and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair lesser when picking a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still essential to choose an alternative that uses sufficient support for bigger users.
bariatric aids folding extra broad bariatric manual wheelchair includes 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 comes to identifying the proper wheelchair seat width you ought to always determine from the user's best point which is normally their hips. You will also need to consider whether the user is going to be using a winter coat as this might add 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair is in use it must only be operated on level surfaces with the wheel locks completely engaged. This is to prevent the chair from being able to move slopes that are 10 degrees or higher. It is also important to remember that any activity that might move the center of mass in the chair need to be made with care. This includes grabbing items that need the person to lean out of their seat or trying to stand from it.
Whenever you have the chair in usage it is recommended that you regularly check it for damage and oil any areas that are considered needed. For instance, the casters should be lubricated by eliminating the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Likewise, 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 prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be very unpleasant for the user and if left unattended, can lead to push sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better geared up to manage falls. They are likewise generally bigger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They require vehicles with special ramps and lifts to pack them, as well as motorists who know how to finest transport them from one location to the next.
When picking a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining consider whether it will accommodate your guest's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is often noted as a fixed load, meaning that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can easily hold while stalling. Nevertheless, some manufacturers also note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can imitate the result of somebody sitting down in the chair. This might be a more trustworthy measurement of the weight limit, depending on your needs.
If you prepare to carry out activities that move your center of mass in the seat (such as grabbing things), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Also, check that casters are oiled frequently to avoid excessive wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure involves eliminating the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with top quality multi-purpose grease.