Full recycling wheelchair

Details

The Full Reclining Wheelchair is a premium Specialized Mobility Aid designed to maximize patient comfort and prevent severe complications associated with prolonged sitting, such as Pressure Sores (Decubitus Ulcers). Its high-back design and full reclining function offer versatile positioning, making it indispensable for long-term care, recovery from spinal injuries, or in situations requiring elevated leg positioning.

Available Models/Sizes/Variations

This chair is typically constructed with a reinforced Chrome-Plated Steel or Lightweight Aluminum frame for durability and stability. Key components include:

• Backrest: Full 90° (upright) to 180° (flat) reclining capability, controlled by an attendant lever.
• Leg Rests: Detachable, swinging, and Elevating Leg Rests to improve blood circulation and allow the user to lie flat.
• Support: Features a full-length head/neck support pillow and padded, detachable armrests.
• Safety: Equipped with a Dual Braking System (for the user and the attendant) and Anti-Tippers at the rear to prevent backward falls when reclined.

Main Intended Uses

The device is indicated for users who:

• Require frequent changes in position to alleviate pressure on the lower body.
• Suffer from conditions requiring their legs to be elevated (e.g., edema or circulation issues).
• Are recuperating from spinal injuries or complex surgeries and need stable, reclined seating.
• Need a safe chair-to-bed transfer solution that minimizes heavy lifting by the caregiver.

Operating Instructions

1. Safety First: Ensure the patient is centered and the Anti-Tippers are correctly deployed. Engage the Attendant Brakes (wheel locks) before any adjustments.
2. Reclining: Slowly pull the recline lever (usually located behind the backrest) and gently guide the backrest to the desired angle. Do not adjust too quickly.
3. Leg Elevation: Use the lever/lock mechanism on the side of the leg rests to raise or lower them to the patient’s comfortable position.
4. Transport: Ensure the chair is in the upright position and the elevating footrests are down (or swung away). Release the brakes and push from the rear handles.

Potential Risks/Adverse Events

The primary risk is Shearing (friction between skin and upholstery) during the reclining process, which can lead to skin breakdown. This requires vigilant repositioning by the attendant. Another risk is Tipping if anti-tippers are not used when fully reclined.

Interactions/Compatibility

It is highly recommended to use this wheelchair in conjunction with an Anti-Decubitus Cushion (Gel, Foam, or Alternating Air) to further minimize the risk of pressure sores caused by extended sitting.

Warnings/Precautions

Localized Warning: The reclining function shifts the center of gravity, making the chair unstable for self-propulsion or quick movement when fully reclined. The Reclining Wheelchair must primarily be pushed and maneuvered by an attendant/caregiver. Do not exceed the chair’s specified weight capacity. Always ensure the patient is safely strapped in when moving.

Quick Device Facts Table

Mechanism of Operation

The reclining mechanism operates via a linkage system in the backrest, typically controlled by a hand lever. As the backrest angle is increased (reclined), the chair structure simultaneously transfers the user’s weight from the vulnerable bony prominences of the sitting bones (ischial tuberosities) to the user’s back. The accompanying elevating leg rests ensure that the weight is effectively distributed along the calves and thighs, which, when combined, significantly reduces the pressure applied to the primary seating surface, aiding in the treatment and prevention of pressure ulcers.