Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the correct seat width is essential to wheelchair users who invest longer durations in their chairs. bariatric mobility equipment will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which might result in sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can likewise make it hard for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in little spaces.
To measure the appropriate seat width an individual would sit on a chair normally and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is normally their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be used to determine this, but a backyard stick is preferred as it prevents people from covering the tape around their hips which would offer an inaccurate result.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard grownup), and 20" (wide adult). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is readily available. This durable additional 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
Typically, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (usually their hips). This was suggested to accommodate additional layers of clothes that might be worn during cold weather condition. However, this practice is ending up being less common 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 lesser when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still important to pick an option that provides adequate support for larger users.
The Medline folding extra large bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfy 24" seat width and a durable slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it concerns identifying the right wheelchair seat width you should constantly determine from the user's widest point which is usually their hips. You will likewise require to consider whether the user is going to be wearing a winter coat as this might add 2" to the width required.
When a wheelchair is in usage it must just be run on level surface areas 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 shift the center of mass in the chair must be finished with care. This consists of reaching for products that need the person to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is recommended that you regularly examine it for damage and lube any locations that are deemed essential. For instance, the casters need to be lubricated by getting rid of the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening up the bolt and then moving them to the desired position. This permits the feet to sit comfortably on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be extremely unpleasant for the user and if left unattended, can cause press sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them stronger and better geared up to deal with falls. They are likewise typically bigger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than basic wheelchairs. They need vehicles with unique ramps and lifts to pack them, in addition to drivers who understand how to finest transport them from one area to the next.
When selecting a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining factor in whether it will accommodate your traveler's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is typically noted as a fixed load, implying that it shows the amount of weight the chair can conveniently hold while stalling. However, some makers likewise note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can replicate the effect of someone sitting down in the chair. This may be a more reliable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your requirements.
If you prepare to carry out activities that move your center of gravity in the seat (such as grabbing things), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Also, inspect that casters are lubricated 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.