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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.
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.
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.
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.