Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the proper seat width is very important to wheelchair users who spend longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which might lead to sores or pressure points. Having too large a seat can also make it difficult for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in small spaces.
To determine the correct seat width an individual would sit on a chair usually 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 determine this, but a lawn stick is chosen as it avoids people from covering the tape around their hips which would offer an unreliable outcome.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard grownup), and 20" (broad adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is readily available. This durable extra wide 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 largest point (usually their hips). This was meant to accommodate extra layers of clothes that may be worn during cold weather condition. Nevertheless, bariatric wheelchair 26 inch seat is becoming less typical 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 essential when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still important to pick an alternative that offers sufficient assistance for larger users.
The Medline folding additional wide 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 raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it comes to figuring out the appropriate wheelchair seat width you need to always measure from the user's best point which is normally their hips. You will also require to consider whether the user is going to be using a winter coat as this may add 2" to the width required.
When a wheelchair is in use it should just be operated on level surface areas with the wheel locks fully engaged. This is to prevent the chair from being able to move slopes that are 10 degrees or greater. It is also crucial to keep in mind that any activity that may shift the center of gravity in the chair need to be finished with care. This includes grabbing items that require the individual to lean out of their seat or trying to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is recommended that you regularly inspect it for damage and oil any areas that are deemed needed. For example, the casters must be oiled by eliminating the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Likewise, 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 avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be extremely unpleasant for the user and if left unattended, can result in pressure sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are developed to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and better equipped to manage falls. They are likewise generally bigger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than basic wheelchairs. They require cars with unique ramps and lifts to pack them, along with motorists who know how to finest transport them from one place to the next.
When picking a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining consider whether it will accommodate your passenger's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is frequently listed as a fixed load, meaning that it suggests the amount of weight the chair can comfortably hold while stalling. Nevertheless, some makers likewise list an active load that is based on a drop test and can simulate the effect of someone sitting down in the chair. This may be a more reputable measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your requirements.
If you prepare to carry out activities that move your center of gravity in the seat (such as reaching for things), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Likewise, inspect that casters are lubed regularly 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 top quality multi-purpose grease.