subject: Transport Chair | How To Find The Perfect Hospital Wheelchair [print this page] A hospital wheelchair is generally differently purposed than the same items out in the world. For this reason, there actually should be two different designs in order to get the best use out of the products.
Alternative Wheelchair Design
The wheelchairs that are out in the world are designed to foster the independence of users who experience long-term or permanent mobility issues. This means that they are designed to be moved by the occupant with as little effort as possible. As well, there is usually some degree of customization relating to whatever condition has led to the mobility impairment.
In the case of hospital wheelchairs however, independent movement on the part of the patients is frequently the last thing anyone wants. This is not because the facility is full of mean people who don't want anyone to have any fun, but out of concern for the health and safety of their clientele. This is one of many reasons why a new alternative transport is an excellent fit for hospital use.
Reducing Liability While Increasing Safety
Patients in hospitals and other treatment facilities are generally required by law or at least industry regulations to be escorted from one location to another. This enables the facility to assure that the client arrives where they are intended to on time and in good condition.
This is regardless of the patient's ability to move herself from place to place. Not to mention that sometimes, due to illness or medication, her judgment may be impaired. She is likely to put herself in danger when trying to traverse the halls and stairs.
The alternatively designed hospital wheelchair does not allow for independent motivation by the occupant. In other words, it requires an attendant to go anywhere. Not only does this increase patient safety and reduce facility liability, but it also acts as a strong theft deterrent, saving the hospital money on multiple fronts.
Many Wheelchair Accessories are Available to Make the Unit Even Better
Because it is very difficult, not to mention prohibitively costly, to try to carry several models of customized wheelchairs, many hospitals wind up trying to make do or figure out solutions on the fly. This hospital wheelchair can easily be equipped with a wide range of accessories, dependant upon current needs.
These accessories include oxygen tank and infusion pump holders, IV stands, seatbelts and washable cushions. Furthermore, they are built of sturdy materials that can be easily sanitized, which are increasingly a must in many settings, even moreseo in a hospital. Many standard wheelchairs are made of materials that stain, rust or clean up only with difficulty.
There are even more built-in features of this ideal hospital wheelchair. Part and parcel of the design feature that prevents the chair's occupant from taking it on a solo adventure are auto-locking brakes. When the attendant releases the steering mechanism, the brakes lock. Considering how difficult it can be to set brakes on a standard wheelchair, it is a wonder no one has added this design feature a long time ago.
