WHEELCHAIRS Flashcards
1
Q
Prescription
A
- Size of patient
- Safety/Stability
- Comfort
- Functional needs
- Physical capacity
2
Q
Seat Width & Depth
A
• Good fit = Max.stability ↓Energy expelled for sitting • BodyDimensions – Hip width (GT to GT) – Thigh length (most posterior point of body to popliteal fossa then minus ~2inches)
3
Q
Seat Angle & Cushioning
A
• Level seat - Good posture • Appropriate tension – Symmetry • 90° angle, trunk-thighs - Pelvic stability - Optimal for daily activities • Contoured cushioning - CoG lower to ground
4
Q
Foot Rests & Plates
A
Foot Rest Length/Angle: • Knees at ~90° • Thighs evenly supported • Too high = knees higher than hips • Wider angle: accommodates leg length without limiting activities
Foot Plate Angle:
Feet: strong stimulators of leg muscle extension patterns/spasms
5
Q
Backrest
A
Balance: CoM at T10 lvl Scapular movement Propulsion: Cadence Stroke angle Peak shoulder extension angle Shoulder flexion /extension ROM Head control
6
Q
Arm Rests
A
- Posture & Balance
- Support & Alignment
- Pressure Relief
• Top of seat/cushion to bottom of elbow (flex. 90°)
• Add ~3cm for support and to minimise abduction
• High – shoulder elevation
• Low – asymmetry
• Transfers:
– Stand: stability
– Assisted: remove
7
Q
Wheels
A
Size/position of wheels:
• 24” drive wheels
• Back-wheel balance ability
• Leverage/energy to lift casters
• Weight distribution (40:60, front-back)
• ↓ Rolling resistance: ↑ weight over back
8
Q
QEWS Items & Scoring
A
- Indoor Circuit
- Ramp (1:14 gradient)
- Back Wheel Balancing
- Ascend and Descend Gutter 5. 6-minute Push Test
• Each item scored 0-5 points
9
Q
Tyres
A
• Pneumatic (++ outdoors) – Susceptible to flats
• Solid (++ indoors)
– Wear down, but no flat
10
Q
Brakes
A
Not required by all patients
• Extended lever arms
• Failure – insufficient air in tyres/worn tyres
