A therapist is evaluating a patient for a wheelchair prescription. The patient can transfer independently with a sliding board. The MOST appropriate wheelchair would have

A therapist is evaluating a patient for a wheelchair prescription. The patient can transfer independently with a sliding board. The MOST appropriate wheelchair would have

• A. Fixed, adjustable-height arm rests and detachable foot rests
• B. Removable arm rests and detachable swing-away leg rests
• C. Fixed arm rests and removable leg rests
• D. Desk-style removable arm rests and fixed elevating leg rests

Answer: (B)

For a patient who can transfer independently using a sliding board, the wheelchair should minimize obstacles and allow easy access to the seat edge. Removable arm rests let the patient sit close to the edge and place the sliding board without interference, making the transfer smoother and safer. Detachable swing-away leg rests provide clear foot and knee clearance during the transfer and can be moved out of the way or removed when needed, simplifying the shift from chair to the transfer surface. This combination maximizes independence and safety for sliding-board transfers, which is why it’s the best fit. Fixed arm rests or non-swing-away leg rests would create obstacles during the transfer and hinder positioning.

For a patient who can transfer independently using a sliding board, the wheelchair should minimize obstacles and allow easy access to the seat edge. Removable arm rests let the patient sit close to the edge and place the sliding board without interference, making the transfer smoother and safer. Detachable swing-away leg rests provide clear foot and knee clearance during the transfer and can be moved out of the way or removed when needed, simplifying the shift from chair to the transfer surface. This combination maximizes independence and safety for sliding-board transfers, which is why it’s the best fit. Fixed arm rests or non-swing-away leg rests would create obstacles during the transfer and hinder positioning.