Manual & Power Wheelchair Selection Flashcards
7 cards from real CMC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Manual & Power Wheelchair Selection flashcards as text
A funding request for a complex rehab power wheelchair (CRT) is denied. Which documentation element is most critical for a successful appeal?
Answer: Letter of medical necessity with functional mobility limitations and least costly alternative analysis
A Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) documenting the client's functional deficits, failed alternatives, and why the requested equipment is the least costly clinically appropriate option is essential for appeals.
Which manual wheelchair propulsion technique is recommended by clinical guidelines to reduce cumulative shoulder trauma?
Answer: Semi-circular (looping) stroke pattern with long smooth pushes
A semi-circular or looping propulsion pattern reduces the number of strokes needed per distance and minimizes the loading phase on the shoulder joint.
During a power wheelchair evaluation, the therapist observes that a client's joystick control is inconsistent due to involuntary movements. Which programming adjustment should be tried first?
Answer: Reduce joystick throw sensitivity and increase tremor dampening
Reducing throw sensitivity and increasing tremor dampening filters out small unintended movements while still responding to deliberate directional input.
A client with T10 paraplegia and active lifestyle wants to participate in basketball. Which manual wheelchair features are MOST important for sport performance?
Answer: Rigid lightweight frame, high camber wheels, and sports-specific push rims
Sports wheelchairs require a rigid lightweight frame for energy transfer, high camber for lateral stability during sharp turns, and appropriate push rims for rapid propulsion.
What is the role of a wheelchair seating simulation during a complex rehab evaluation?
Answer: To trial seating components and configurations before final prescription
Simulation allows the team to trial different cushions, back supports, and positioning components in a mock setup to determine the optimal configuration before committing to a final prescription.
A client transitions from a manual to a power wheelchair. Which transfer skill is MOST important to assess before discharge?
Answer: Safe approach, positioning, and locking the power wheelchair prior to transferring
Correct approach and chair positioning — including engaging power and ensuring stability — are the foundational safety steps before every power wheelchair transfer.
Which condition would make a front-wheel drive power wheelchair the preferred choice over mid-wheel drive?
Answer: Client frequently traverses outdoor terrain with high obstacles
Front-wheel drive chairs climb obstacles more easily because the drive wheels lead, making them advantageous on uneven outdoor terrain despite their larger turning radius.