2022 Volume 2 Issue 1 Pages 38-44
Wheelchairs are widely used in hospitals, but most wheelchairs have a maximum weight capacity of 100 kg and cannot be used for patients weighing more than that.
In this case, we were in charge of a severely obese patient who had significant muscle weakness in both lower limbs and was able to perform basic activities with full assistance. However, there were no wheelchairs available in the hospital, so the patient was able to borrow Wheelchair tilt-in-space and recline functions with a weight capacity of 135 kg and a seat width of 45 cm from a nearby welfare equipment consultant. The patient was transferred using a sliding board from the viewpoint of safe bed release and prevention of back pain for the staff. The patient's wheelchair-wheelchair use was initiated, the patient's ability to hold a sitting position was improved, and examinations and treatments that were not available at the bedside could be performed.
Furthermore, through this case, the attending physician and nurses learned that there were no wheelchairs available for severely obese patients in the hospital, which led to the purchase of a wheelchair. Sharing and discussion among multiple departments within and outside the hospital led to the borrowing of a wheelchair suitable for the case and the purchase of hospital equipment.
