Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the right seat width is necessary to wheelchair users who invest longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which could cause sores or pressure points. Having too large a seat can likewise make it hard for the user to reach the hand rims to propel 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 usually their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be used to determine this, however a yard stick is preferred as it avoids individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would offer an inaccurate result.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard adult), and 20" (wide grownup). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is readily available. This sturdy extra 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 best point (typically their hips). This was implied to accommodate additional layers of clothes that may be worn during cold weather. Nevertheless, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users are able to spend more time inside and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair lesser when picking a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still essential to select a choice that provides adequate assistance for larger users.
The Medline folding extra broad bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfy 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 pertains to identifying the right wheelchair seat width you ought to constantly measure from the user's largest point which is generally their hips. You will likewise require to think about whether the user is going to be using a winter coat as this might add 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair remains in usage it should only be run on level surface areas with the wheel locks totally engaged. This is to prevent the chair from being able to move inclines that are 10 degrees or greater. It is also crucial to bear in mind that any activity that might move the center of gravity in the chair ought to be done with care. This consists of grabbing products that need 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 regularly check it for damage and lube any locations that are considered required. For example, the casters need to be lubed by eliminating the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Likewise, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening up the bolt and after that moving them to the preferred position. This permits the feet to sit easily on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be extremely uncomfortable for the user and if left unattended, can result in pressure sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are developed to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and much better equipped to handle falls. They are also normally larger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They need vehicles with special ramps and lifts to pack them, as well as motorists 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 primary determining element in whether it will accommodate your guest's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is frequently noted as a static load, implying that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can easily hold while standing still. Nevertheless, some manufacturers also list an active load that is based on a drop test and can replicate the result of someone sitting down in the chair. This might be a more trusted measurement of the weight limit, depending on your needs.
If you plan to carry out activities that move your center of gravity in the seat (such as reaching for objects), make sure to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Likewise, inspect that casters are lubed routinely to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. bariatric living aids involves removing the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.