Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the right seat width is essential to wheelchair users who invest longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which could result in sores or pressure points. Having too broad a seat can also make it difficult for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in small areas.
To measure the correct seat width an individual would rest on a chair normally and have their measurement taken across their lap at the best point which is generally their hips. buy bariatric wheelchair measuring tape can be used to determine this, however a yard stick is chosen as it prevents people from covering the tape around their hips which would provide an inaccurate result.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard adult), and 20" (large adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is offered. 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
Typically, 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 indicated to accommodate additional layers of clothes that might be used throughout winter. 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 important when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still crucial to select an option that uses adequate assistance for bigger users.
The Medline folding extra large bariatric manual wheelchair features 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 comes to determining the correct wheelchair seat width you must always determine from the user's best point which is generally their hips. You will also require to think about 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 must only be run on level surface areas with the wheel locks fully engaged. This is to avoid the chair from being able to move inclines that are 10 degrees or greater. It is also important to keep in mind that any activity that might shift the center of gravity in the chair must be finished with care. This consists of grabbing items 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 recommended that you frequently inspect it for damage and lubricate any locations that are deemed needed. For example, the casters must be lubed by getting rid of the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Also, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening the bolt and after that moving them to the desired position. This allows the feet to sit comfortably on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be really unpleasant for the user and if left ignored, can cause press sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them stronger and much better geared up to handle falls. They are likewise typically larger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than basic wheelchairs. They need automobiles with unique ramps and lifts to fill them, as well as drivers who know how to finest transport them from one area to the next.
When picking a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining consider whether it will accommodate your passenger's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is typically listed as a static load, implying that it shows the quantity of weight the chair can comfortably hold while stalling. However, some manufacturers likewise note an active load that is based on a drop test and can simulate the result of someone sitting down in the chair. This might be a more reliable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your needs.
If bariatric folding wheelchair plan to perform activities that shift your center of gravity in the seat (such as grabbing objects), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Likewise, check that casters are lubed regularly to prevent 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.