Wheelchair Seating & Positioning Flashcards

Which measurement is most critical when determining appropriate seat depth for a wheelchair user?

Answer: Hip-to-popliteal length

Seat depth is based on hip-to-popliteal length to ensure proper thigh support without impeding circulation behind the knee.

A client presents with a posterior pelvic tilt and sacral sitting posture. Which intervention is MOST appropriate as a first-line seating solution?

Answer: Solid seat insert with anterior tilt

A solid seat insert with slight anterior tilt helps restore neutral pelvic alignment and reduces sacral sitting.

What is the primary purpose of a lateral trunk support in a wheelchair seating system?

Answer: Prevent lateral trunk collapse and maintain midline orientation

Lateral trunk supports prevent the trunk from collapsing sideways and help the user maintain an upright midline position.

A user with spastic diplegia tends to scissor their legs together in the wheelchair. Which positioning device best addresses this?

Answer: Medial knee block (abductor)

A medial knee block or abductor pommel positions between the knees to prevent hip adduction and the scissoring pattern.

When measuring seat-to-floor height for a manual wheelchair user who self-propels with their feet, what is the primary consideration?

Answer: Feet must reach the floor flat while maintaining slight hip flexion

Foot propellers need a lower seat height so both feet contact the floor fully, enabling efficient and safe propulsion.

Which type of wheelchair cushion is MOST appropriate for a client with absent sensation and high risk of pressure injury?

Answer: Alternating pressure or high-specification foam with pressure mapping confirmation

Clients with absent sensation at highest risk require advanced pressure redistribution confirmed by pressure mapping to identify and eliminate hot spots.

In the context of CMC seating assessment, what does 'simulation' refer to?

Answer: Trialing positioning equipment on the client before final prescription

Simulation involves trialing various seating components and positions on the actual client to determine optimal configuration before ordering.