Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the appropriate seat width is very important to wheelchair users who invest longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will trigger pressure on the hips and thighs which might result in sores or pressure points. Having too broad 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 right seat width an individual would sit on a chair generally and have their measurement taken across their lap at the largest point which is generally their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be utilized to measure this, however a lawn stick is preferred as it avoids people from covering the tape around their hips which would offer an unreliable result.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard adult), and 20" (wide grownup). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is readily available. This durable extra wide bariatric wheelchair from Medline features 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 included 2" to the measurement taken at the user's largest point (typically their hips). This was meant to accommodate extra layers of clothes that may be worn throughout winter. However, this practice is ending up being less typical as wheelchair users are able to spend more time inside your home and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair less crucial when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, bariatric wheelchair 24 inch seat is still important to choose an option that uses appropriate assistance for bigger users.
The Medline folding extra large bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfy 24" seat width and a durable slide tube silver vein frame. It likewise has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it comes to determining the proper wheelchair seat width you ought 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 needed.
When bariatric transport wheelchair 400 lb capacity remains in use it must just be run 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 essential to keep in mind that any activity that might shift the center of mass in the chair should be made with care. This consists of reaching for items that need the person to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand up from it.
Whenever you have the chair in use it is advised that you regularly inspect it for damage and lube any areas that are deemed required. For example, the casters must be oiled by eliminating 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 allows the feet to sit conveniently on the footplate and avoids any pressure points from forming. This can be very unpleasant 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 tougher and better equipped to handle falls. They are also usually bigger and wider, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They require vehicles with unique ramps and lifts to load them, in addition to motorists who know how to best transport them from one place to the next.
When picking a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining aspect in whether it will accommodate your guest's requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is often noted as a fixed load, meaning that it suggests the quantity of weight the chair can easily hold while standing still. However, some manufacturers likewise note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can simulate the impact of someone taking a seat in the chair. This might be a more dependable measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your requirements.
If you prepare to perform activities that move your center of gravity 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 topple. Likewise, check that casters are lubed frequently to avoid 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 high-quality multi-purpose grease.