Wheelchair Prescription

Question 1

What is the difference between push transit and self propelled wheelchair ?

Answer 1

• Push Transit: person pushes wheelchair, simpler design, small wheels
• Self Propelled: person propels themselves, customised, large wheels

Question 2

When measuring backrest height what anatomical landmarks do we use as reference point?

Answer 2

• Inferior angle of scapulae

- Scapulae height measure from seat cushion to base of scapulae

Question 3

When measuring seat width what anatomical landmarks do we use as reference points?

Answer 3

• Hip width

- Greater trochanter width in the hip region

Question 4

What is camber and how does it influence chair use?

Answer 4

• Splay of the wheel and increases base of support

- Bottom wheels further apart, increases stability

Question 5

How would you measure lower leg length?

Answer 5

Measure from popliteal fossa to back of leg

Question 6

What is rake and why is it important?

Answer 6

Difference between front and rear seat height

• Comfort in seat
• Stabilises pelvis making person feel more secure

Question 7

Posture is vitally important for wheelchair users. What specifically are you aiming to achieve for client when it comes to posture?

Answer 7

• Symmetrical: will help prevent deformity, pressure ulcers and functional issues
• Head in midline
• Shoulders level
• Normal spinal curves
• Pelvis neutral to slight anterior tilt
• Hips in functional range
• Thighs supported
• Feet supported by footplate

Question 8

What are wheelchair measurements required?

Answer 8

• Seat width
• Seat depth
• Front seat height
• Rear seat height
• Backrest height
• Hanger length
• Hanger angle

Question 9

What are the person aspect of wheelchair prescription?

Answer 9

• Preferences
• Physical
• Function
• Transfers
• Cultural/family
• Experience

Question 10

What are the environment aspect of wheelchair prescription?

Answer 10

• Home, school, work, community
• Door width
• Circulation
• Heights: beds, toilets, tables
• Terrain
• Support

Question 11

What are the occupation aspect of wheelchair prescription?

Answer 11

• Roles
• Activities
• Time in wheelchair

Question 12

What are goals of wheelchair prescription?

Answer 12

1) Maximise efficient and independent mobility
2) Prevention/minimisation of deformity or injury
3) Maximisation of independent functioning
4) Projection of health, vital, attractive ‘body image’
5) Minimisation of short term and long term costs

Question 13

What are pressure injury risk factors?

Answer 13

• Immobility
• Sensory impairment
• Incontinence
• Skin integrity
• Age
• Tone/spasm
• Poor positioning and posture in wheelchair