Wheelchair Theory

Question 1

Types of Wheelchairs

Answer 1

• Manual Wheelchairs / traditional, standard, non-motorized.
• Self - propelled, for independent mobility of a patient.
• Single arm wheelchair
• Pediatric / child wheelchair
• Lightweight and Ultra Lightweight Wheelchairs
• Wheelchairs for Sports
• Electric, Motorized & Powered Wheelchairs

Question 2

Which parameters should be measured when fitting a wheelchair?

Answer 2

• Seat height
• Leg length
• Seat depth
• Seat width
• Back height
• Armrest height

Question 3

Proper Fit of a Wheelchair

Answer 3

Two or three fingers, parallel, easily under thigh from front seat edge.
Footrest 2 inches from floor.
Able to place hands on each side of upper thigh for width.
Back height: able to put hands perpendicular, under patients armpits, with 5th finger touching upper edge of back.
Armrest: elbows approx. 90°.

Question 4

Ascending/Descending a Curb

Answer 4

Ascending: facing forward (much easier), facing backwards. Elevation of caster wheels for both (when facing forward: put them down when big wheels touch curb)
Descending: Facing forward, facing backwards (greater control, less effort). Elevation of caster wheels for both (when facing backwards: don’t elevate until big wheels are down the curb).

Question 5

Independent Propulsion

Answer 5

• User grasps the hand rims at the top of the wheels (at the 12-o’clock position) and pushes forward or pulls backward with equal force on each wheel.
• For turning: hold one hand rim and pull or push on the opposite hand rim.

Question 6

What is the most important thing to remember when transferring a patient from a wheelchair?

Answer 6

PUT BREAKS ON!
Remove foot rest.
Turn wheels away if they are in the way, otherwise keep them facing forward (more stable).