Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the proper seat width is necessary to wheelchair users who spend longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which could result in sores or pressure points. Having too large a seat can also make it challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in small areas.
To measure the proper seat width a person would sit on a chair generally and have their measurement taken across their lap at the best point which is generally their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be used to measure this, however a backyard stick is chosen as it avoids people from covering 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 adult). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is available. This durable extra large 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 added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's largest point (usually their hips). This was meant to accommodate extra layers of clothing that may be worn during cold weather condition. Nevertheless, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users have the ability to spend more time inside your home and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less crucial when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still essential to choose a choice that uses sufficient support for bigger users.
The Medline folding additional wide bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfortable 24" seat width and a durable slide tube silver vein frame. It likewise has an adjustable axle and tool-free raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it concerns figuring out the proper wheelchair seat width you should constantly measure from the user's largest point which is generally their hips. You will also need to think about whether the user is going to be using a winter season coat as this might add 2" to the width needed.
When self propelled bariatric wheelchair is in use it ought to only be operated on level surface areas with the wheel locks completely engaged. This is to prevent the chair from having the ability to move inclines that are 10 degrees or higher. It is likewise crucial to keep in mind that any activity that may shift the center of mass in the chair should be done with care. This consists of reaching for items that require the person to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in usage it is advised that you frequently check it for damage and oil any areas that are considered required. For example, the casters must be lubricated 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 the bolt and then moving them to the desired position. This enables the feet to sit comfortably on the footplate and avoids 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 created to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and better equipped to deal with falls. They are also normally bigger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They need lorries with unique ramps and lifts to fill them, as well as chauffeurs who understand how to finest transport them from one location to the next.
When picking a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining consider whether it will accommodate your guest's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is typically listed as a fixed load, suggesting that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can easily hold while stalling. However, some manufacturers also note an active load that is based on a drop test and can simulate the result of someone sitting down in the chair. This may be a more dependable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your needs.
If you prepare to perform activities that move your center of gravity 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 tip over. Also, examine that casters are oiled frequently to avoid extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment includes eliminating the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.