Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the appropriate seat width is necessary to wheelchair users who invest longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which could result in sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can likewise make it tough for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in small spaces.
To determine the right seat width a person would rest on a chair generally and have their measurement taken across their lap at the largest point which is typically their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be used to determine this, but a backyard stick is chosen as it prevents individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would provide an unreliable result.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow adult), 18" (basic grownup), and 20" (wide grownup). For bariatric clients, a 24" seat is available. This sturdy extra 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 best point (usually their hips). This was suggested to accommodate extra layers of clothing that may be worn during cold weather. However, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users have the ability to spend more time inside and are not wearing long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less essential when choosing a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still crucial to select a choice that provides adequate 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 comes to figuring out the proper wheelchair seat width you need to constantly determine from the user's widest point which is generally their hips. You will also need to consider whether the user is going to be using a winter season coat as this might include 2" to the width required.
When a wheelchair is in use it need to only be operated on level surface areas with the wheel locks totally engaged. This is to avoid the chair from having the ability to move slopes that are 10 degrees or higher. It is likewise crucial to bear in mind that any activity that might move the center of gravity in the chair need to be finished with care. This includes reaching for items 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 suggested that you regularly inspect it for damage and lubricate any locations that are considered required. For example, the casters need to be oiled by getting rid of the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Likewise, the foot plates can be changed by loosening the bolt and then moving them to the preferred position. This permits the feet to sit conveniently on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. bariatric wheelchair weight can be very uncomfortable for the user and if left ignored, can result in push sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are designed to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better equipped to deal with falls. They are likewise generally larger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than basic wheelchairs. They require cars with unique ramps and lifts to pack them, as well as motorists who understand how to best transport them from one area to the next.
When picking a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining aspect in whether it will accommodate your passenger's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is typically noted as a static load, indicating that it suggests the quantity of weight the chair can easily hold while standing still. However, some makers likewise note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can replicate the impact of someone taking a seat in the chair. This might be a more reliable measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your requirements.
If you plan to carry out activities that shift your center of gravity in the seat (such as reaching for items), make sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Also, inspect that casters are oiled regularly 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 high-quality multi-purpose grease.