Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the correct seat width is very important to wheelchair users who invest 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 large a seat can also make it hard for the user to reach the hand rims to move themselves or maneuver in little areas.
To determine the appropriate seat width an individual would sit on a chair typically and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the best point which is normally their hips. A wheelchair determining tape can be utilized to measure this, however a backyard stick is chosen as it prevents individuals from covering the tape around their hips which would give an unreliable outcome.
The basic wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (basic grownup), and 20" (broad grownup). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is offered. This heavy-duty extra 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
Generally, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's best point (normally their hips). This was meant to accommodate additional layers of clothing that may be used during cold weather condition. However, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users have the ability to spend more time inside and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair lesser when picking a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still essential to pick an option that provides appropriate support for bigger users.
bariatric wheelchair 400 lb capacity folding extra wide bariatric manual wheelchair features a comfortable 24" seat width and a heavy-duty slide tube silver vein frame. It likewise has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it comes to determining the appropriate wheelchair seat width you should always determine from the user's best point which is usually their hips. You will also need to think about whether the user is going to be using a winter coat as this might include 2" to the width required.
When a wheelchair remains in use it need to just be run 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 greater. It is likewise important to bear in mind that any activity that may move the center of mass in the chair need to be made with care. This includes reaching for products that require the person to lean out of their seat or attempting to stand from it.
Whenever you have the chair in usage it is advised that you regularly check it for damage and lubricate any areas that are deemed necessary. For example, the casters must be oiled by getting rid of the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to apply to the caster stem bearings. Also, the foot plates can be changed by loosening up the bolt and after that moving them to the preferred position. This permits the feet to sit easily on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be really uncomfortable for the user and if left unattended, can result in press sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than standard wheelchairs. This makes them tougher and much better equipped to deal with falls. They are likewise typically bigger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than basic wheelchairs. They require automobiles with special ramps and lifts to pack them, in addition to drivers who understand how to best transport them from one place to the next.
When picking a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the main determining consider whether it will accommodate your traveler's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is frequently noted as a fixed load, suggesting that it indicates the amount of weight the chair can conveniently hold while standing still. However, some producers also note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can simulate the effect of someone taking a seat in the chair. This might be a more trusted measurement of the weight limit, depending on your requirements.
If you plan to carry out activities that shift your center of gravity in the seat (such as reaching for things), make certain to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Likewise, inspect that casters are oiled routinely to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment involves getting rid of the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with top quality multi-purpose grease.