Wheelchair Basics

Question 1

What are the pros for a power w/c?

Answer 1

1) Greater independence
2) Easier to navigate varying terrains
3) Limited energy expenditure - good for long distances

Question 2

What are the cons for a power w/c?

Answer 2

1) Large and heavy
2) Requires special vehicles to transport w/c
3) No cardiovascular benefit

Question 3

What are the pros for manual w/c?

Answer 3

1. Lighter and small
2. Easier to transport
3. Fitness
4. Customization possible

Question 4

What are the cons for manual w/c?

Answer 4

1. Potential for UE/ shoulder problems
2. Energy consumption
3. Higher functional ability needed - especially for pressure reliefs and maneuvering in uneven environments

Question 5

Characteristics of a front wheel drive power w/c.

Answer 5

1. Mass of w/c BEHIND
2. Good downhill but poor uphill ability
3. Intermediate turning radius

Question 6

Characteristics of a rear wheel drive power w/c.

Answer 6

1. Mass of w/c FRONT
2. Better uphill than downhill
3. LARGEST turning radius

Question 7

Characteristics of a mid wheel drive power w/c.

Answer 7

1. Power wheels under driver’s COM
2. Tightest turning radius
3. Great to use INDOORS
4. Intuitive to drive

Question 8

What do tilt in space w/c allows for?

Answer 8

1. Independent pressure relief
2. Independent positioning
3. Better tone management.

But requires adequate back and head support

Question 9

Characteristics of a folding frame for w/c.

Answer 9

1. Fold to transport
2. LESS EFFICIENT to propel
3. Requires more maintenance
4. HEAVIER

Question 10

Characteristics of a rigid frame for w/c.

Answer 10

1. Take apart to transport
2. MORE EFFICIENT to propel
3. LESS maintenance
4. LIGHTER

Question 11

Dimensions for K0001 code.

Answer 11

Weight >36 lbs
Seat height 19”- 21”
Seat width 16” or 18”
Seat depth 16”

Question 12

Which K-code(s) have limited ability to modify or adjust.

Answer 12

K0001 & K0002

Question 13

When will the use of a K002 code be justified?

Answer 13

Lower height can be justified for those who are short or those who use LE to propel w/c

Question 14

When will the use of a K003 code be justified?

Answer 14

This can be justified in those who can’t self-propel in a standard w/c using arms and/or legs; and do self-propel in a light weight w/c.

Question 15

When will the use of a K004 code be justified?

Answer 15

This can be justified in those individuals self-propels the w/c while engaging in frequent activities that can’t be performed in a standard or light weight w/c.

AND/OR

the individual requires a seat width, depth, or height that can’t be accommodated in a standard, lightweight or hemi-w/c, and spends at least TWO hours per day in the w/c.

Question 16

When will the use of a K005 code be justified?

Answer 16

For very specific documentation for weight and any options is necessary.