Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the proper seat width is necessary to wheelchair users who invest longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which might result in sores or pressure points. Having too large a seat can also make it hard for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in small spaces.
To determine the appropriate seat width a person would sit on a chair normally and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the widest point which is typically their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be used to measure this, however a backyard stick is chosen as it avoids people from wrapping the tape around their hips which would offer an unreliable result.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (basic grownup), and 20" (broad grownup). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is readily available. This heavy-duty 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 meant to accommodate extra layers of clothes that may be used during cold weather condition. Nevertheless, wheelchair bariatric transit 24 inch is becoming 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 choosing a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still crucial to choose an alternative that offers sufficient support for bigger users.
The Medline folding extra wide bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfy 24" seat width and a heavy-duty slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it comes to determining the appropriate wheelchair seat width you need to constantly measure from the user's largest point which is normally their hips. You will likewise require to consider whether the user is going to be wearing a winter season coat as this may add 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair is in use it should only be operated on level surfaces with the wheel locks fully engaged. This is to avoid the chair from being able to move slopes that are 10 degrees or higher. It is likewise important to keep in mind that any activity that might shift the center of gravity in the chair ought to be done with care. This includes reaching for products that require the person to lean out of their seat or trying to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in usage it is advised that you frequently examine it for damage and oil any locations that are deemed essential. For instance, the casters must be lubricated by eliminating the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening up the bolt and then moving them to the preferred position. This permits the feet to sit conveniently on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be very uncomfortable for the user and if left unattended, can lead to pressure sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and better equipped to deal with falls. They are likewise normally bigger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They need lorries with unique ramps and lifts to pack them, in addition to motorists who understand 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 traveler's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is typically noted as a static load, meaning that it suggests the quantity of weight the chair can comfortably hold while standing still. Nevertheless, some manufacturers likewise list an active load that is based upon a drop test and can mimic the impact of somebody taking a seat in the chair. This may be a more reliable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your requirements.
If you prepare to perform activities that move your center of gravity in the seat (such as grabbing items), make certain to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Also, inspect that casters are lubed regularly to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure involves eliminating the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.