Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the appropriate seat width is necessary to wheelchair users who spend longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which might lead to sores or pressure points. Having bariatric mobility aids can likewise make it tough for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in small spaces.
To measure the correct seat width a person would sit on a chair generally and have their measurement taken across 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 preferred as it prevents individuals from wrapping the tape around their hips which would give an unreliable outcome.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard adult), and 20" (large adult). 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
Traditionally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's largest point (typically their hips). This was meant to accommodate additional layers of clothes that may be used throughout winter. Nevertheless, this practice is becoming less typical 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 lesser when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still essential to select an option that provides sufficient support for bigger users.
The Medline folding additional broad bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfortable 24" seat width and a sturdy slide tube silver vein frame. It likewise has an adjustable axle and tool-free raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it comes to identifying the correct wheelchair seat width you need to always measure from the user's largest point which is normally their hips. You will likewise require to think about whether the user is going to be wearing a winter coat as this might add 2" to the width required.
When a wheelchair is in usage it ought to just be operated 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. It is likewise important to remember that any activity that might shift the center of gravity in the chair ought to be finished with care. This consists of grabbing 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 suggested that you routinely inspect it for damage and lube any areas that are considered needed. For instance, the casters ought to 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 the bolt and after that moving them to the preferred position. This enables the feet to sit easily on the footplate and avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be very uneasy for the user and if left ignored, can lead to pressure sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better equipped to manage falls. They are also normally bigger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They need cars with special ramps and lifts to pack them, along with chauffeurs who know how to best transport them from one place to the next.
When choosing a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining consider whether it will accommodate your passenger's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is typically listed as a fixed load, indicating that it shows the amount of weight the chair can comfortably hold while standing still. Nevertheless, some makers likewise note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can simulate the result of somebody sitting down in the chair. This might be a more reliable measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your requirements.
If you prepare to perform activities that shift your center of mass 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 lubed regularly to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure involves getting rid of the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with high-quality multi-purpose grease.