Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the right seat width is essential to wheelchair users who invest longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which might cause sores or pressure points. Having too broad a seat can also make it challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in little spaces.
To determine the correct seat width an individual would sit on a chair typically and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the best point which is generally their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be used to measure this, but a backyard stick is preferred as it prevents individuals from wrapping the tape around their hips which would offer an incorrect outcome.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (basic grownup), and 20" (broad grownup). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is offered. 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 best point (normally their hips). This was suggested to accommodate extra layers of clothes that might be used throughout winter. However, this practice is becoming less typical as wheelchair users are able to invest more time inside 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 choose a choice that provides sufficient support for bigger users.
The Medline folding additional wide bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfy 24" seat width and a heavy-duty slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it pertains to determining the appropriate wheelchair seat width you must constantly determine from the user's best point which is generally their hips. You will likewise need to consider whether the user is going to be wearing a winter coat as this might include 2" to the width needed.
When a wheelchair is in usage it need to only be operated on level surfaces with the wheel locks fully engaged. This is to avoid the chair from having the ability to move slopes that are 10 degrees or greater. It is also crucial to bear in mind that any activity that might shift the center of mass in the chair must be done with care. This includes 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 use it is advised that you routinely inspect it for damage and lube any areas that are deemed necessary. 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 changed by loosening up the bolt and then moving them to the preferred position. This enables the feet to sit comfortably on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be really uneasy for the user and if left unattended, can cause pressure sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are developed to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better equipped to deal with falls. They are also usually bigger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They require lorries with special ramps and lifts to pack them, as well as drivers who know 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 consider whether it will accommodate your traveler's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is frequently listed as a fixed load, meaning that it indicates the quantity of weight the chair can easily hold while standing still. However, some manufacturers also note an active load that is based on a drop test and can mimic the impact of somebody sitting down in the chair. self propelled bariatric wheelchair might be a more reputable measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your needs.
If you plan to perform activities that move your center of mass 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. Also, check that casters are oiled 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 top quality multi-purpose grease.