Mobility

Question 1

When are self-propelled wheelchairs used by clients?

Answer 1

If they have the UE strength and endurance to propel themselves

Question 2

When would an OT consider a light vs. ultralight self propelled wheelchair?

Answer 2

If the client has UE weakness

Question 3

What is a hemi-height wheelchair and when would it be used?

Answer 3

A hemi-height wheelchair is designed with a seat height that is lower on one side. This design accommodates users with one functional leg, enabling them to propel with their feet.

Question 4

What are casters?

Answer 4

the small front wheels that allow for maneuverability and stability

Question 5

Where is center of gravity (COG) typically at in a wheelchair?

Answer 5

Typically directly over the rear wheel axle

Question 6

What happens if COG is moved forward on a wheelchair?

Answer 6

Increased stability, less maneuverability

Question 7

What happens if COG is moved backward on a wheelchair?

Answer 7

Decreased stability, increased maneuverability

Question 8

If a person with LE amputations was utilizing a wheelchair, should the COG be moved forward or back?

Answer 8

Forward, to accommodate the lack of weight from the lack of LE in the front

Question 9

When should an OT advocate for a power wheelchair for a client?

Answer 9

-If the client has UE weakness/paralysis
-If the client can’t keep up with peers with manual propelling

Question 10

What is a rear-wheel drive power wheelchair useful for?

Answer 10

Tracks straight so it is easier to steer and good over rough terrain

Question 11

What is a mid-wheel drive power wheelchair useful for?

Answer 11

Greater maneuverability d/t smaller turning radius but hardware extending behind user can get caught

Question 12

What is a front-wheel drive power wheelchair useful for?

Answer 12

Various terrain b/c powerful front wheels but it may fishtail at higher speeds

Question 13

What are reclining and tilt-in-space functions in a power wheelchair both useful for?

Answer 13

Postural instability, pressure relief, and orthostatic hypotension

Question 14

What is the difference between the reclining and tilt-in-space functions in a power wheelchair?

Answer 14

-Reclining moves only the back of the wheelchair extending the hips.
-Tilt in space allows the person to tilt forward or backward while still maintaining the 90-90-90 position (optimal position)

Question 15

When should OT’s advocate that a client has a hand-held walker?

Answer 15

If the client can weight bear through LE (mild CP or lower level spina bifida)
If the client can grip and steer the walker

Question 16

What should an OT remember when advocating for mobility devices for clients?

Answer 16

Don’t overcompensate; maximize ability

Question 17

What are some assessments that are used for mobility?

Answer 17

-PEDI-CAT
-WeeFIM
-School Function Assessment
-PPWST
-PMP

Question 18

Wheelchair Measurement Guide

Answer 18

1 inch; seat to back of knee, hips to sides of chair

Question 19

Interventions for Postural Weakness

Answer 19

Recline
Tilt In Space
Higher Backrest
Custom Contoured
Lateral Trunk Supports
Lap Tray
Harness - Dynamically Stable

Question 20

Interventions for UE Weakness

Answer 20

Lightweight/Ultralightweight wheelchair
Power
Power assist unit/one-arm drive
Walker with forearm trough
U-Shaped Joystick supports the Palm
Lap Tray

Question 21

Interventions for Increased Tone

Answer 21

Tilt-in-Space
Decreased seat to back angle, less than 90 degrees of hip flexion
Seatbelt at a 90 degree angle to the thighs
Hip Guides
Wedge downward slope pointing back

Question 22

Interventions for Motor Control Deficit

Answer 22

Tremor dampening joystick
Joystick placed in midline or rotated toward the body
Powered elevating seat
Alternative control interfaces or head switch arrays
Eye gaze
Pneumatic sip ‘n’ puff

Question 23

Interventions for Pressure Relief

Answer 23

Tilt in Space or Recline
Cushions

Question 24

What are the pros and cons of foam cushions?

Answer 24

Pros: Inexpensive, envelopment, lightweight
Cons: Trap heat, bottoms out

Question 25

What are the pros and cons of memory foam cushions?

Answer 25

Pros: Stable Base, Conducts Heat Away Cons: Sliding

Question 26

What are the pros and cons of air cushions?

Answer 26

Pros: Good pressure distribution Cons: Not good for those who lack sensation or decreased postural stability

Question 27

What are the pros and cons of honeycomb cushions?

Answer 27

Pros: Good pressure distribution, good ventilation, lightweight Cons: Poor envelopment