26-05-2012, 12:11 PM
WHEELCHAIRS
wheelchairs.ppt (Size: 654 KB / Downloads: 95)
Objectives
Identify different components of a wheelchair
Identify different types of Wheel chairs
Describe purpose or function of wheelchair components and types
Describe how to determine the correct size of a wheelchair
Wheelchairs
Wheelchair accommodate to the specific needs of the individual that will use it.
These wheelchairs have to be as light as possible and it must have a short wheelbase
Wheel locks
stabilize the wheels of a wheelchair after the wheelchair has being stopped.
Wheel locks must be engaged whenever an individual is moving into or out of a wheelchair.
The locks must make contact with tires. Wheel locks are usually engaged by pushing a lever on each side of the chair.
Extensions for the levers are available. These increase the mechanical advantage for the wheel locking mechanism.
Pelvic Positioners
these are devices that stabilize a patient’s pelvis in the proper position while seated in a wheelchair.
Their purpose is not prevent patients from falling out of the chair.
They are only used for positioning and no other purpose.
Drive wheels
Drive wheels are the large rear wheels and are used for propulsion. These can also come in standard solid rubber or pneumatic.
Pneumatic tires have being modified to reduce the potential for flat tires.
Drive wheels have inner and outer rims. The inner rims are for mounting the tires and the outer rims is used for propelling the rim.
Drive wheels can come in standard or “mags” Standard wheel is fabricated with multiple steel or aluminum spokes
Mags do not use spokes