Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the right 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 result in sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can also make it difficult for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in little spaces.
To determine the appropriate seat width an individual would rest on a chair typically and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is normally their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be utilized to measure this, but a yard stick is chosen as it avoids people from wrapping the tape around their hips which would give an incorrect outcome.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (standard grownup), and 20" (wide grownup). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is readily available. This heavy-duty extra large bariatric wheelchair from Medline features 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 best point (typically their hips). This was indicated to accommodate additional layers of clothing that may be worn during winter. Nevertheless, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users have the ability to spend more time indoors and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less crucial when picking a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still crucial to select a choice that provides adequate assistance for larger users.
The Medline folding extra large bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfortable 24" seat width and a heavy-duty slide tube silver vein frame. It likewise has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it concerns identifying the correct wheelchair seat width you ought to constantly determine from the user's best point which is generally their hips. You will also need to consider whether the user is going to be wearing a winter coat as this may add 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair remains in usage it should only 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. bariatric mobility equipment is also essential to keep in mind that any activity that might move the center of mass in the chair must be done with care. This includes grabbing items that require the individual to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand 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 deemed necessary. For instance, the casters need to be lubed by eliminating the caster fork and utilizing 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 comfortably on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be very uneasy for the user and if left ignored, can lead to press sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are developed to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better equipped to deal with falls. They are likewise generally bigger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They need vehicles with unique ramps and lifts to pack them, along with motorists who understand how to best transport them from one place to the next.
When selecting a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining consider whether it will accommodate your traveler's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is often listed as a fixed load, implying that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can easily hold while standing still. However, some producers also note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can mimic the impact of somebody taking a seat in the chair. This might be a more reputable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your needs.
If you plan to perform activities that shift your center of gravity in the seat (such as reaching for items), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not tip over. Also, examine that casters are oiled routinely 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 premium multi-purpose grease.