WheelchairAnalysis and Summary
WheelchairAnalysis and Summary
Wheelchairis an assistive device that is used by clients with mobilitychallenges. This paper will focus on the analysis of three types ofwheelchairs, different components of a wheelchair.
Table1: Types of wheel chair and their features
Type of wheelchair | Features |
Lightweight wheelchair | 8"/24" PU wheels. Drum brake Pre-assembled anti-tipper and crutch holder Height-adjustable side panel Height-adjustable push handles Standard seat cushion |
Bariatric wheelchair | Elevating leg rest Standard anti-tippers detachable armrests with side panels Folding chrome plated steel frame 180 degree reclining range |
Tilt wheelchair | Height Adjustable Armrest High Strength Aircraft Grade Aluminum Tension Strap Adjustable Seat & Backrest Folding / Ultra Compact Patented “V” Shape Seating (anti-thrust, slippage) |
Table2: Different types of components
Wheelchair component | Purpose | Identify | Remove (check) | Replace (check) |
Lateral supports | Prevent sideways movement | Yes | ||
Lap tray | Placing items, such as books and food | Yes | ||
Neck ring | Provide anterior-trunk support | Yes | ||
H Strap | To support user’s calves | Yes | ||
Seat belt | To secure the user from harmful movements | Yes | ||
Adductors | Help the user achieve the most desired position | Yes | ||
Abductors | Help user seat in a given position by holding the legs firm. | Yes | ||
Lumbar roll | Provide an appropriate setting posture | Yes | ||
Conditions a client might need to use a wheelchair
Amputation:Involves the removal of one limb, which limits the ability of theclient to move independently.
Severearthritis: Involve inflammation and pain in the joints, which limitthe client’s ability to move without the help of a wheelchair.
Cerebralpalsy: Brain damage reduces muscle coordination, which limit theability of the client to walk independently.
Fibromyalgia:Muscular rheumatism and tenderness in the localized regions limit thecapacity of the client to walk without a wheelchair.
MuscularDystrophy: Hereditary condition caused by progressive muscle wasting.Limb muscles become too weak to help the client walk without awheelchair.
The advantages and disadvantages of the following wheelchairs:
Manual versus electric
Manualwheelchairs are cost effective and do not require charging. However,users of manual wheelchairs use a lot of energy to ride themselves orrequire a helper at all times in case their limbs are not strongenough. An electric wheelchair is more convenient and easy tooperate. However, an electric wheelchair is more expensive and canonly be used in areas with electricity supply (Cure CMD, 2016).
Manual reclining versus power reclining
Amanual reclining wheelchair allows the user to reposition easily.However, the client may require the help of another person to achievethe desired position. With a power reclining wheelchair, the clientcan reposition without the help of another person. However, thewheelchair may not work in the absence of electricity supply.
Folding versus rigid manual
Foldingchairs are more convenient and useful for clients who need to travelfrequently. However, the cost of maintenance is a higher(Apparelyzed, 2016). A rigid wheelchair has a higher level ofperformance than a folding one. However, it is not convenient fortraveling users.
Lightweight versus standard weight wheelchair
Lightweight wheelchairs are easier to propel. However, the wheelchair doesnot have good padding (Oracta, 2016). A standard weight wheelchair,on the other hand, is quite inexpensive and sturdy. However, it isdifficult to maneuver compared to the light weight.
Safety issues that should be conveyed to client regarding the use of a wheelchair
Theclient should be informed about the need to take the wheelchair forregular servicing, lock it before getting in, lift footplates beforegetting out or in, and avoid putting heavy loads on the wheelchair.
Advantages and disadvantages of renting versus purchasing a wheelchair
Buyinggives the clients the right of ownership, which protects them fromthe risk of an increase in price at a later date. However, theseclients have to bear the cost of maintaining the wheelchair. A rentedwheelchair, on the other hand, reduces the burden of maintenance. Italso gives clients the opportunity to rent a wheelchair withdifferent specifications in case the current one is not appropriate.However, the client remains bound to the rules stipulated in theagreement.
Conclusion
Wheelchairsvary in terms of efficiency and components. The type of components inevery wheelchair depends on the specific health condition of a givenclient.
References
Apparelyzed(2016). Manual wheelchair guide. Apparelyzed.Retrieved June 3, 2016, fromhttp://www.apparelyzed.com/wheelchair/manual-wheelchairs.html
CureCMD (2016). Manual versus power wheelchair. CureCMD.Retrieved June 3, 2016, fromhttp://curecmd.org/cmd-care/equipment/manual-v-power-wheelchairs
Oracta(2016). Light weight wheelchair for travelling. Oracta.Retrieved June 3, 2016, fromhttp://www.orocta.org/mobility/lightweight-wheelchair-for-traveling.html