MAO Manual

MODULE 5 – Wheelchair Anatomy

Objectives:

• Identify the basic parts of a standard wheelchair, and identify acceptable parts to tie down a chair • Identify some different wheelchairs and their concerns • Demonstrate opening and closing a wheelchair

Handling a wheelchair efectively is one of the most important skills an MAVO can develop. This module will discuss some of the more common features of a standard wheelchair. At the end of this segment, you should be able to demonstrate understanding of why wheelchairs are designed the way they are, and what advantages this design offers when moving the patient.

Less Common Wheelchairs There are some variations to the standard wheelchair that are still acceptable for transport, such as leg rests that elevate or that are removable, removable arm rests, and the absence of hand rims. Sports Wheelchairs Sports chairs are for the independent patient who may enjoy a game of basketball or racing around the track. The back rest is usually very low, there are no hand grips and the framework can make it very difficult to secure the wheelchair safely in the van.

Standard Wheelchair A standard wheelchair is a collapsable metal framed seat with four wheels. In traditional models, the front wheels are smaller casters and steer the chair. The rear wheels are larger, and are intended to roll up and down obstacles such as steps or curbs. Arm and leg rests are typically removable, and most wheelchairs have handles of some type so that they can be pushed or steered from the rear. Some form of brake mechanism is also present on most chairs so that the chair does not accidentally roll away when it is unattended. Seating is typically made out of vinyl or some other long lasting and easily cleaned material.

There are many different styles of sports chairs. If you have a patient with a sports chair, it is recommended that you notify your company’s management immediately. It is a management decision whether to transport a patient in the sports chair. The chair should be evaluated and the points of tie-down mapped out. The MAVT should be trained to secure this specific wheelchair.