Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width

Seat Width

Having the correct 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 large 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 appropriate seat width a person would rest on a chair typically and have their measurement taken throughout their lap at the largest point which is typically their hips. A wheelchair measuring tape can be utilized to determine this, however a lawn stick is chosen as it avoids people from wrapping the tape around their hips which would give an incorrect outcome.

The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard adult), and 20" (broad grownup). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is offered. This heavy-duty 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

Typically, the seat depth of a bariatric wheelchair was added 2" to the measurement taken at the user's widest point (normally their hips). This was suggested to accommodate additional layers of clothes that may be used during winter. However, this practice is ending up being less common as wheelchair users have the ability to spend more time indoors and are not using long coats. This makes the seat depth of a chair lesser when selecting a bariatric wheelchair. However, it is still crucial to pick an option that offers appropriate assistance for larger users.

The Medline folding extra wide bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfortable 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 concerns identifying the proper wheelchair seat width you ought to always measure from the user's best point which is typically their hips. You will likewise require to think about whether the user is going to be wearing a winter coat as this might include 2" to the width needed.

When a wheelchair remains in use it need to only be operated on level surfaces with the wheel locks fully engaged. This is to avoid the chair from having the ability to move inclines that are 10 degrees or higher. It is also essential to bear in mind that any activity that may shift the center of mass in the chair should be finished with care. This consists of reaching for products 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 recommended that you regularly examine it for damage and lubricate any locations that are deemed essential. For example, the casters should be oiled by eliminating the caster fork and using a multi-purpose grease to use to the caster stem bearings. Similarly, the foot plates can be adjusted by loosening the bolt and then moving them to the preferred position. This enables the feet to sit conveniently on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be really uneasy for the user and if left unattended, can lead to press sores.

Weight Capacity

Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them stronger and much better geared up to deal with falls. They are likewise typically bigger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces than standard wheelchairs. They require cars with special ramps and lifts to load them, as well as motorists who know how to finest transport them from one area 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 requirements. The weight capacity of the chair is frequently listed as a fixed load, indicating that it indicates the amount of weight the chair can conveniently hold while standing still. Nevertheless, some makers likewise note an active load that is based upon a drop test and can simulate the effect of somebody taking a seat in the chair. This might be a more trusted measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your needs.

If heavy duty bariatric wheelchair prepare to carry out activities that shift your center of mass in the seat (such as reaching for things), make sure to have front casters pointed in a forward instructions and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Likewise, examine that casters are lubricated routinely to prevent extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication treatment includes eliminating the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with premium multi-purpose grease.