Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the right seat width is essential to wheelchair users who spend 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 wide a seat can likewise make it difficult for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in little spaces.
To determine the correct seat width a person would sit on a chair usually and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is generally their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be used to measure this, however a yard stick is preferred as it prevents individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would give an inaccurate result.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (standard adult), and 20" (broad grownup). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is available. This heavy-duty additional 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 (normally their hips). This was meant to accommodate extra layers of clothes that may be used throughout cold weather. 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 less important when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still important to pick an alternative that offers sufficient support for bigger users.
The Medline folding extra broad bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfy 24" seat width and a durable slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it pertains to determining the proper wheelchair seat width you must always determine from the user's best point which is usually their hips. You will also require to consider whether the user is going to be using a winter coat as this may include 2" to the width required.
When a wheelchair is in use it need to only be run on level surfaces with the wheel locks totally engaged. This is to avoid the chair from being able to move inclines that are 10 degrees or greater. It is also essential to keep in mind that any activity that may move the center of gravity in the chair need to be finished with care. This consists of reaching for products that require the individual to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in usage it is advised that you regularly check it for damage and oil any areas that are deemed needed. For example, the casters need to be lubed by removing the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Likewise, the foot plates can be changed by loosening up the bolt and after that moving them to the desired 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 cause pressure sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them stronger and much better equipped to manage falls. They are likewise normally bigger and broader, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. heavy duty bariatric wheelchair require vehicles with special ramps and lifts to load them, as well as chauffeurs who understand how to finest transport them from one place 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 requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is frequently noted as a static load, implying that it suggests the quantity of weight the chair can easily hold while standing still. Nevertheless, some manufacturers also list an active load that is based upon a drop test and can imitate the effect of somebody taking a seat in the chair. This may be a more reputable measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your requirements.
If you plan to carry out activities that move your center of mass in the seat (such as reaching for objects), make certain 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 routinely to avoid extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure includes getting rid of the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.