Posts Tagged ‘prescription’
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The Wheelchair Guide
Your Wheelchair and Mobility Scooter Resource
Prescribing a Wheelchair: Follow Up Care
Monday, July 13th, 2009
When a doctor prescribes a wheelchair to a user, it is very important that the wheelchair fits the needs of the user. It is also very important that the wheelchair user have a great deal of input over the process, because not only must their physical needs be met, but there are a number of other considerations, like where the person intends to primarily use their wheelchair, that should be considered.
It is encouraged that new wheelchair users also talk with experienced wheelchair users and do a good deal of research on their own, because often doctors, while very well meaning, are not very experienced with wheelchairs and have never actually used one for an extended period of time. Due to health and safety concerns, it is very important that the wheelchair fits the physical requirements of the user.
Once the wheelchair arrives, everything should be remeasured and the wheelchair fully evaluated to ensure that it does in fact fit the needs of the user, however the doctors responsibility does not stop here. Instead, the wheelchair and its effect on the user should be reevaluated with each visit to the doctor.
One of the most important things that a doctor should look for is how the wheelchair is affecting the posture of its user. This is often something that can not be seen until after the user has been using the wheelchair for some time. Proper posture is essential for wheelchair users, because overtime a poor sitting position can cause a great number of health problems.
The actual condition of the wheelchair should also be checked and the user should be trained in how to properly maintain and care for their wheelchair. This includes lubricating moving parts, removing and cleaning the components, adjusting the anti-tip casters, and regularly checking the wheelchairs bolts for tightness. Emergency maintenance, such as how to fix a flat tire, should also be shown.
It is also very important that the wheelchair user be trained in how to navigate environmental factors that they might encounter. This includes the ability to move over curbs, navigate steps, and traveling on hills. Proper transfer techniques should also be shown and the user should be trained on how to fall out of the chair and recover. There are several places across the country that offer a sort of wheelchair obstacle course, to help train new wheelchair users and experienced wheelchair users alike.
The doctor should also make sure that the users home area is wheelchair friendly. It may be necessary to widen doors, install ramps, or a wheelchair lift. The doctor should talk with the patient and explain some of the options available.
Selecting the Right Wheelchair
Thursday, July 2nd, 2009
There are a number of decisions that go into prescribing a manual wheelchair and this decision should not be made lightly. This is because a wheelchair will be used daily and an improper fit could result in joint deformities, bruising, poor posture, circulation problems, and even pain. However, these problems can be avoided by ensuring that the wheelchair fits the user.
Size of the User
One of the most important considerations is the age of the wheelchair user, their size, and their weight. Wheelchairs come in a variety of sizes and so, it is seldom a problem finding one to fit an individual.
However, it is imperative that the seat is wide enough to accommodate their frame, the armrests do not rub their arms or cause discomfort, the backrest is not too high or too low, and the wheelchair can support the weight of the occupant. The height of the occupant is also important, so the wheelchair is not raised too high or low off of the ground.
Health and Condition of the User
The physical health and type of disability the new wheelchair user has is also a very important part of deciding what type of wheelchair will be the best choice. Since manual wheelchairs require good deal of upper body strength to use, they will not be the best choice for some, necessitating an electric power chair. Other considerations are the users ability to support their neck, how much flexibility they have in their legs, and circulation concerns, which could require the user to keep their feet elevated or have a reclining back.
Needs of the User
While the physical condition and attributes of the wheelchair user are essential, it is also imperative that the wheelchair can do what the user needs it to, so the needs and preferences of the wheelchair user should always be considered. For example, it should be determined if the user will be using the wheelchair only at home, at work, primarily outdoors, or a combination of all three. Other considerations include whether someone else will be pushing the wheelchair, how easy the wheelchair is to transport, and how the individual will transfer into and out of the chair.
Cost of the Wheelchair
Typically, the final consideration before actually ordering the wheelchair is the overall cost and purchasing power of the user. The order should be fine tuned to remove any unneeded features, which can add to the cost. The option to lease, buy, or rent should also be considered, as well as insurance or Medicare costs.
Ensuring that the wheelchair fits the specific needs and requirements of its user is imperative, not only for safety and health concerns, but also because the acceptance of a wheelchair by its user can affect their mental health.
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