Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the right seat width is very important to wheelchair users who invest longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which might cause sores or pressure points. Having too large a seat can likewise make it challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in little areas.
To determine the right seat width an individual would sit on a chair typically and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the widest point which is typically their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be used to determine this, but a lawn stick is preferred as it avoids people from wrapping the tape around their hips which would give an unreliable outcome.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (basic adult), and 20" (wide grownup). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is offered. This durable additional broad 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
Typically, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's best point (usually their hips). This was implied to accommodate extra layers of clothing that may be used throughout winter. Nevertheless, this practice is ending up being less typical as wheelchair users have the ability to spend 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 essential to choose an alternative that offers sufficient support for larger users.
The Medline folding additional wide bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfy 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 concerns determining the correct wheelchair seat width you need to constantly measure from the user's best point which is usually 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 required.
When a wheelchair is in use it need to only be run on level surfaces with the wheel locks completely engaged. This is to prevent the chair from having the ability to move slopes that are 10 degrees or higher. It is also essential to bear in mind that any activity that might shift the center of gravity in the chair should be done with care. This includes grabbing items that need the individual 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 frequently inspect it for damage and lube any locations that are considered needed. For instance, the casters ought to be lubed by removing 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 up the bolt and after that moving them to the preferred position. This enables the feet to sit conveniently on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be extremely uneasy for the user and if left unattended, can lead to press sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are developed to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better geared up to deal with falls. They are also generally larger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than basic wheelchairs. They require vehicles with special ramps and lifts to load them, in addition to chauffeurs who know how to finest transport them from one area to the next.
When picking bariatric heavy duty transport wheelchair , consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining consider whether it will accommodate your traveler's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is often noted as a static load, indicating that it shows the amount of weight the chair can conveniently hold while stalling. Nevertheless, some manufacturers also list an active load that is based on a drop test and can mimic the effect of somebody taking a seat in the chair. This may be a more reputable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your needs.
If you prepare to carry out activities that shift your center of gravity in the seat (such as grabbing things), make certain to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Also, inspect that casters are lubricated routinely to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure involves getting rid of the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.
