Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the appropriate seat width is very important to wheelchair users who invest longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which could lead to sores or pressure points. Having inquiry can also make it challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in little areas.
To measure the correct seat width an individual would rest on a chair usually and have their measurement taken across their lap at the best point which is generally their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be utilized to determine this, but a yard stick is chosen as it avoids people from covering the tape around their hips which would provide an unreliable outcome.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (standard adult), and 20" (broad adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is available. This durable 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
Generally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (generally their hips). This was indicated to accommodate extra layers of clothes that may be worn during winter. Nevertheless, this practice is ending up being less typical as wheelchair users have the ability 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 crucial to select an alternative that offers adequate support for larger users.
The Medline folding additional wide bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfortable 24" seat width and a sturdy slide tube silver vein frame. It likewise has an adjustable axle and tool-free raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it comes to determining the correct wheelchair seat width you must constantly determine from the user's largest point which is usually their hips. You will also need to think about whether the user is going to be wearing a winter coat as this may include 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair is in use it should just be run on level surfaces with the wheel locks completely engaged. This is to avoid the chair from having the ability to move slopes that are 10 degrees or greater. It is likewise crucial to bear in mind that any activity that might move the center of mass in the chair need to be done with care. This consists of grabbing items that require the person to lean out of their seat or trying to stand from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is advised that you frequently inspect it for damage and lubricate any areas that are deemed necessary. For instance, the casters ought to be oiled by eliminating the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Also, the foot plates can be changed by loosening the bolt and after that moving them to the desired position. This allows the feet to sit easily on the footplate and avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be really uncomfortable for the user and if left unattended, can cause push sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them stronger and better equipped to deal with falls. They are also generally bigger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They need lorries with unique ramps and lifts to pack them, along with drivers who know how to finest transport them from one location to the next.
When selecting 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 frequently listed as a fixed load, indicating that it indicates the amount of weight the chair can conveniently hold while standing still. However, some makers likewise note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can replicate the result of somebody sitting down in the chair. This may be a more trusted measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your requirements.
If you prepare to perform 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 casters are lubed routinely to avoid extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure includes getting rid of the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with high-quality multi-purpose grease.