Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the appropriate seat width is essential 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 broad a seat can likewise make it difficult for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in little areas.
To determine the proper seat width an individual would sit on a chair typically and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is normally their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be utilized to determine this, but a backyard stick is chosen as it avoids people from wrapping the tape around their hips which would provide an inaccurate outcome.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (basic adult), and 20" (broad adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is offered. This heavy-duty extra broad 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
Generally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (usually their hips). This was indicated to accommodate extra layers of clothes that may be used during cold weather condition. However, this practice is becoming less common as wheelchair users are able to invest more time indoors and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair lesser when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still important to pick an option that uses sufficient support for bigger users.
The Medline folding extra broad bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfortable 24" seat width and a sturdy slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it concerns identifying the appropriate wheelchair seat width you ought to always measure from the user's widest point which is typically their hips. You will likewise require to consider whether the user is going to be wearing a winter season coat as this may include 2" to the width required.
When a wheelchair remains in use it must only be run on level surfaces with the wheel locks totally engaged. This is to prevent the chair from being able to move slopes that are 10 degrees or greater. It is likewise important to keep in mind that any activity that might move the center of mass in the chair must be finished with care. This includes grabbing products that require the person to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is advised that you regularly examine it for damage and lube any areas that are considered required. For instance, the casters need to be oiled by removing the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, the foot plates can be changed by loosening the bolt and after that moving them to the wanted position. This enables 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 push sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and better geared up to handle falls. They are likewise usually larger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They need vehicles with special ramps and lifts to load them, in addition to drivers who know how to best transport them from one area 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 frequently noted as a fixed load, indicating that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can easily hold while standing still. Nevertheless, bariatric wheelchair 400 lb capacity list an active load that is based on a drop test and can imitate the impact of someone sitting down in the chair. This may be a more reliable measurement of the weight limit, depending on your requirements.
If you plan to carry out activities that shift your center of gravity in the seat (such as grabbing items), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Likewise, inspect that casters are lubed routinely to prevent extreme 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.