Bariatric Wheelchair Seat Width
Seat Width
Having the right seat width is crucial to wheelchair users who spend longer periods in their chairs. Too narrow a seat will cause pressure on the hips and thighs which could lead to sores or pressure points. Having too wide a seat can likewise make it challenging for the user to reach the hand rims to propel themselves or maneuver in small spaces.
To determine the right seat width a person 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 used to measure this, however a lawn stick is chosen as it avoids people from covering the tape around their hips which would give an inaccurate outcome.
The standard wheelchair seat width is 16" (narrow grownup), 18" (standard adult), and 20" (broad adult). For bariatric patients, a 24" seat is readily available. This durable additional 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 (generally their hips). This was suggested to accommodate additional layers of clothes that may be used throughout winter. However, this practice is becoming 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 selecting a bariatric wheelchair. Nevertheless, it is still essential to choose an alternative that provides adequate assistance for larger users.
The Medline folding extra broad bariatric manual wheelchair includes a comfy 24" seat width and a sturdy slide tube silver vein frame. It also has an adjustable axle and tool-free elevating legrests.
Seat Height
When it pertains to identifying the proper wheelchair seat width you should constantly measure from the user's largest point which is typically their hips. You will also need to think about whether the user is going to be wearing a winter season coat as this may include 2" to the width required.
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 being able to move inclines that are 10 degrees or greater. It is likewise essential to keep in mind that any activity that may shift the center of mass in the chair should be finished with care. This includes reaching for products that need the individual to lean out of their seat or trying to stand up from it.
Whenever bariatric wheelchair 400 lb capacity have the chair in use it is recommended that you regularly check it for damage and lube any areas that are deemed required. For instance, the casters should be lubricated by removing the caster fork and utilizing a multi-purpose grease to use 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 enables the feet to sit conveniently on the footplate and prevents any pressure points from forming. This can be really uncomfortable for the user and if left ignored, can result in press sores.
Weight Capacity
Bariatric wheelchairs are created to support more weight than basic wheelchairs. This makes them stronger and better geared up to manage falls. They are also typically bigger and larger, making them less maneuverable in tight areas than standard wheelchairs. They need vehicles with unique ramps and lifts to fill them, as well as motorists who know how to best transport them from one location to the next.
When selecting a wheelchair, consider its weight capacity as it will be the primary determining consider whether it will accommodate your guest's needs. The weight capacity of the chair is typically listed as a fixed load, meaning that it shows the quantity of weight the chair can comfortably hold while stalling. However, some manufacturers also list an active load that is based upon a drop test and can imitate the result of someone taking a seat in the chair. This may be a more trusted measurement of the weight limit, depending upon your requirements.
If you plan to perform activities that shift your center of gravity in the seat (such as grabbing items), be sure to have front casters pointed in a forward direction and wheel locks engaged so the chair will not topple. Also, check that casters are oiled frequently to avoid extreme wear and abrasions. The lubrication procedure involves removing the fork, separating the caster from the wheel, and greasing the caster stem bearings with top quality multi-purpose grease.