Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the appropriate seat width is crucial to wheelchair users who spend longer durations in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which could cause sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can likewise make it tough for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in small areas.
To determine the correct seat width an individual would rest on a chair typically and have their measurement taken across their lap at the largest point which is usually their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be utilized to measure this, but a lawn stick is chosen as it avoids individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would provide an incorrect outcome.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard adult), and 20" (large grownup). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is readily available. This heavy-duty additional large 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 included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (usually their hips). This was suggested to accommodate additional layers of clothing that may be worn during cold weather condition. However, this practice is becoming less common as wheelchair users are able to spend more time inside and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair lesser when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still crucial to pick a choice that provides adequate assistance for larger users.
The Medline folding extra broad bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfortable 24" seat width and a durable slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free raising legrests.
Seat Height
When it concerns figuring out the appropriate wheelchair seat width you need to always measure from the user's largest point which is typically their hips. You will likewise require to think about whether the user is going to be wearing a winter season coat as this might include 2" to the width required.
When a wheelchair is in use it should only be run on level surface areas 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 also important to keep in mind that any activity that might move the center of mass in the chair ought to be made with care. This consists of grabbing products that require the individual to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is advised that you frequently examine it for damage and oil any locations that are deemed needed. For example, the casters ought to be lubed by eliminating the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening up the bolt and then moving them to the wanted position. This permits the feet to sit comfortably on the footplate and avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be very uneasy for the user and if left unattended, can lead to pressure sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are developed to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them sturdier and better equipped to deal with falls. They are likewise typically bigger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They need lorries with unique ramps and lifts to pack them, along with drivers 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 primary determining element in whether it will accommodate your guest's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is often noted as a static load, indicating that it suggests the quantity of weight the chair can comfortably hold while standing still. However, bariatric living aids list an active load that is based upon a drop test and can imitate the result of somebody sitting down in the chair. This may be a more reputable measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your requirements.
If you plan to perform activities that shift your center of gravity in the seat (such as grabbing things), 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 lubricated regularly to avoid extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment involves removing the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with top quality multi-purpose grease.