Comprehensive Wheelchair Buying Guide for Healthcare Facilities

Wheelchairs are more than just mobility aids – they are a medical equipment essential across healthcare environments. For healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes, wheelchairs are indispensable for patient care, comfort, and safety.

As we look deeper into the importance of wheelchairs in healthcare, we will explore

• Role of Wheelchairs in Healthcare Settings
• Types of Wheelchairs
• Essential Wheelchair Features
• Frequently Asked Questions

Role of Wheelchairs in Healthcare Settings

Wheelchairs are an integral part of the daily operations in healthcare facilities and are most often used by staff to move patients safely and efficiently from one place to another within the facility. In addition to patient transport, wheelchairs are commonly used:

• As transition aids for patients recovering from surgery, injury, or neurological conditions like a stroke. While these patients are not yet strong enough to balance and walk independently, wheelchairs offer a safe and stable means for patients to get out of bed, move, and participate in daily activities.
  
  
• In rehabilitation environments for core stability exercises, posture control, and exercises related to cardiovascular health. While seated in wheelchairs, patients can engage in aerobic exercises such as wheelchair racing, push-ups, or long-distance propulsion, which promote heart health and overall endurance.

Wheelchairs used in healthcare environments are essential not only for the transportation of patients, but also for comfort and rehabilitation following illness, surgery, or accident. They offer a foundation for patients to regain strength, coordination, and confidence, all while improving their physical and psychological well-being.

Types of Wheelchairs

From hospitals and rehabilitation centers to long-term care facilities, wheelchairs play an essential role in supporting patients' mobility and overall well-being. However, not all wheelchairs are the same. Understanding the different types of wheelchairs available helps healthcare providers select the right one for their facility and the patient populations they care for.

To provide a thorough overview of wheelchair options, the list below also includes specialized wheelchairs that, while not commonly used in healthcare facilities, are important to mention.

Transport Wheelchairs

Designed for short-term use or transport of individuals from one location to another. These wheelchairs are typically lightweight and compact, with smaller wheels. The smaller wheels make them less maneuverable over long distances and differentiate them from standard manual wheelchairs. Very often transport wheelchairs feature handrails for caregivers to push the chair.

Benefits:

• Portability: Lightweight and folds easily for storage.
• Convenience: Ideal for transportation within a healthcare facility.
• Affordability: More cost-effective than other types of wheelchairs, making transport chairs a good option for facilities who require large quantities.

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Manual Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs can be operated by the patient using hand rims attached to the wheels or by caregivers using handrails behind the seat back. These mobility aids are lightweight and easy to maneuver. They can be customized with different seating options, footrests, and armrests. The frame may be rigid or folding.

Benefits:

• Cost-effective: Manual wheelchairs are generally more affordable than power models.
• Lightweight and portable: Compact design makes these chairs easier to transport and store.
• Low maintenance: Fewer electrical components, which means a simpler upkeep.
  

Powered (Electric) Wheelchairs

These wheelchairs are equipped with electric motors powered by rechargeable batteries and controlled via a joystick or alternative input devices (such as a head control or sip-and-puff system). Powered wheelchairs are often larger and heavier than manual wheelchairs. Adjustable seating, tilt-in-space options, and reclining features allow these wheelchairs to be customized to the needs of the patient.

Benefits:

• Effortless movement: Powered wheelchairs are ideal for individuals who have limited upper body strength or endurance, as they do not require manual propulsion.
• Independence: Allows users to move around without needing assistance from a caregiver.
• Comfort: Many models come with advanced seating options that can help improve posture and prevent pressure sores.
• Versatility: Some powered wheelchairs can be equipped for specific needs, such as tilt-in-space or elevating leg rests for comfort.

Reclining Wheelchairs

Reclining wheelchairs are designed to recline the backrest, independently of the seat, allowing the user to lie back at various angles. Patients or caregivers can operate the powered or manual reclining mechanism.

Some models also feature elevated leg rests for additional comfort.

Benefits:

• Pressure relief: The reclining feature of the wheelchair helps prevent pressure sores by redistributing body weight and relieving pressure on the spine and hips.
• Improved comfort: Reclining wheelchairs offer greater comfort for users who need to change positions frequently.
• Posture support: Beneficial for users who need to alternate between sitting upright and lying back.

Tilt-in-Space Wheelchairs

Like reclining wheelchairs, tilt-in-space chairs allow a patient to lie back. The distinguishing feature of the tilt-in-space wheelchair is that the backrest, including the seat tilt backward as a single unit. This creates a constant angle that distributes weight evenly across the body, relieving pressure. Customizable seating options to accommodate different body types and needs are available for tilt-in-space wheelchairs.

Benefits:

• Pressure relief: By tilting the chair, users experience reduced pressure on certain areas of the body, helping to prevent sores.
• Postural support: Beneficial for individuals with spinal cord injuries or those with limited trunk control.
• Comfort: Offers the user a range of seating positions that can help improve circulation and by extension overall well-being.

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Bariatric Wheelchairs

Bariatric wheelchairs are specifically designed to support people with limited mobility and higher body weights. These wheelchairs typically support weights ranging from 350-1,000 lbs and feature wider seats, reinforced frames, and heavy-duty upholstery. Accessories such as adjustable, larger armrests, leg rests, footrests, and anti-tip bars are available. Other customizable features include power-adjustable seating, specialty drive controls, and Bluetooth integration.

Benefits:

• Safety: Bariatric wheelchairs are designed for stability.
• Ease of use: Bariatric wheelchairs with Bluetooth connectivity and drive controls make them easy to use.
• Pressure relief: Available power positioning systems help relieve pressure.
• Versatility: Bariatric wheelchairs may be suitable for patients with neuromuscular or musculoskeletal issues.

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Pediatric Wheelchairs

Pediatric wheelchairs are designed to meet the needs of children with a variety of disabilities, including physical and mental disabilities, cerebral palsy, autism, and muscular dystrophy. As pediatric wheelchairs are used for a variety of disabilities, there are many types of chairs to accommodate a wide variety of needs: stand-up frame, small child wheelchairs, growing chairs, lightweight or sporting wheelchairs, and powered kid wheelchairs.

Benefits:

• Child-specific features: Pediatric wheelchairs feature lower leg length, seat depth, seat width, and back height
• Customizable: These wheelchairs can be adapted to accommodate a child’s body growth and developmental needs.

Standing Wheelchairs

Standing wheelchairs give patients the opportunity to move while in a standing or seated position. These wheelchairs, powered or manually operated, are designed to raise a patient from a seated to standing position. Safety features such as straps or harnesses secure the patient and prevent them from falling.

Benefits:

• Health benefits: Standing periodically can improve circulation, bone density, and help reduce the risk of contractions and skeletal deformation.
• Increased independence: Patients can participate in activities that require standing, such as preparing food or interacting with others at eye level.
• Psychological benefits: These mobility aids encourage a more active and engaged lifestyle, helping to combat the isolation that often comes with being confined to a seated position.

Shower and Commode Wheelchairs

Constructed of waterproof materials and often designed with an open seat for toileting, these wheelchairs are specialized mobility aids designed for individuals who need assistance with bathing and toileting. These wheelchairs combine functionality and accessibility, making them essential in healthcare facilities.

Benefits:

• Safety and stability: Shower and commode wheelchairs offer a stable and secure platform for patients while they are engaging in hygiene and toileting activities.
• Efficiency: Because these wheelchairs are versatile, they can contribute to efficient bathing and toileting workflows by reducing the need for multiple transfers between a standard wheelchair, commode, and shower chair.
• Compact design: Compact design allows the wheelchair to be easily maneuvered in tight bathroom spaces.

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The following wheelchairs are not commonly used in healthcare facilities. However, a wheelchair buying guide would be incomplete if these mobility aids were to be omitted.

Sports Wheelchairs

With lightweight frames, sports wheelchairs are specifically designed for athletes who use wheelchairs in sports like basketball, tennis, or racing. These wheelchairs may be customized with specialized wheels and hand rims for greater maneuverability and speed.

Benefits:

• Performance: Optimized for speed and precision in various sports.
• Improved mobility: Designed to allow athletes to perform dynamic movements, such as sharp turns or quick stops.
• Durability: Built to withstand the rigors of competitive sports.

All-Terrain Wheelchairs

Specialty all-terrain wheelchairs are built with large, durable wheels designed to handle rough or uneven surfaces, such as gravel, sand, or dirt. These wheelchairs, designed with reinforced frames, are often powered, and used by people with disabilities who engage in activities that require greater mobility.

Benefits:

• Greater mobility: Provides the ability to travel over a variety of terrains that would typically be inaccessible with standard wheelchairs.
• Outdoor use: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts or individuals who enjoy activities like hiking, camping, or visiting parks.
• Independence: Increases the user's ability to explore and engage in activities outside of the home or healthcare facility.

Understanding the different types of wheelchairs available can help caregivers and healthcare professionals make informed decisions that will ultimately improve a patient's quality of life. While there are a variety of wheelchairs available to support a range of needs, there are several features that are essential to all wheelchairs.

Essential Wheelchair Features

When healthcare facilities evaluate wheelchairs, they look for features related to functionality, safety, and comfort for both patients and staff. Here are some of those essential features:

Durability and Build Quality

• Robust Frame: Constructed with durable materials like aluminum or steel to withstand frequent use.
• High Weight Capacity: Accommodates diverse patient needs.
• Ease of Maintenance: Replaceable parts and easy cleaning materials.

Comfort and Adjustability

• Padded Seating and Backrest: Ensures comfort during long periods of use.
• Adjustable Armrests and Footrests: Adapt to patient size and posture requirements.
• Ergonomic Design: Supports proper alignment and reduces pressure points.

Mobility and Maneuverability

• Smooth Rolling Wheels: Ensures ease of movement on various surfaces.
• Compact Design: Fits through narrow hallways and doorways in healthcare settings.
• Turning Radius: Allows easy navigation in tight spaces.

Safety Features

• Locking Brakes: Provides stability during transfers or when stationary.
• Anti-Tip Mechanisms: Prevents accidents during use.
• Seat Belts and Harnesses: Secures patients who may have difficulty sitting upright.

Transfer Assistance

• Removable or Flip-Up Armrests: Facilitates lateral patient transfers.
• Swing-Away Footrests: Allows unobstructed movement for staff during transfers.

Facilities may prioritize these features differently depending on their patient demographics, budget, and care specialties.

Summary

Wheelchairs are an important medical equipment investment for healthcare facilities. By understanding patient needs, exploring wheelchair options, and partnering with reputable vendors, facilities can equip themselves with wheelchairs that offer benefits to both patient and staff.

Partner with CME for Wheelchairs

As a nationally recognized healthcare equipment distributor and the only distributor focused solely on medical equipment, CME has built relationships with industry leading wheelchair manufacturers.

Our expert account managers will work with you and the manufacturers’ representatives to help select wheelchairs with the features that satisfy both facility and patient needs.

Complementing CME’s focus on medical equipment are direct-to-site delivery and biomedical services. We are the only medical equipment distributor nationwide, able to say we are truly a one-stop shop.

Our Logistics and Direct-To-Site service teams can receive, inspect, assemble (as needed), and deliver your wheelchairs when it is convenient for you.

Our Biomedical Equipment Technicians can work with your facility to establish equipment maintenance and repair plans focused on ensuring the reliability of your wheelchairs and compliance with applicable regulations.

Click CHAT to begin a conversation about your wheelchair needs with one of our medical equipment experts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should wheelchairs be replaced in healthcare facilities?
Regularly inspect wheelchairs and replace them every 5–7 years or sooner if they show signs of wear that compromise safety.

About CME: CME Corp is the nation’s premier source for healthcare equipment, turnkey logistics, and biomedical services, representing 2 million+ products from more than 2,000 manufacturers. With 24 locations strategically positioned across the country and increasing, we are readily accessible to our customers. Our mission is to help healthcare facilities nationwide reduce the cost of the equipment they purchase, make their equipment specification, delivery, installation, and maintenance processes more efficient, and help them seamlessly launch, renovate and expand on schedule.