CMC Manual & Power Wheelchair Selection 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A client with C6 tetraplegia wants to propel a manual wheelchair independently. Which rim modification best supports this goal?
- Vertical projections on the push rim (Correct answer)
- Foam-coated standard push rims
- Plastic-coated push rims for grip
- Aluminum anodized push rims
Correct answer: Vertical projections on the push rim
Vertical projections (quad pegs) allow clients with limited hand function to hook wrists or palms over the rim for propulsion.
Question 2: Which power wheelchair drive configuration provides the tightest turning radius?
- Rear-wheel drive
- Front-wheel drive
- Mid-wheel drive (Correct answer)
- All-wheel drive
Correct answer: Mid-wheel drive
Mid-wheel drive places the drive wheels at the center of the chair, allowing it to pivot nearly in place for the tightest turning radius.
Question 3: A bariatric client weighing 350 lbs needs a manual wheelchair. What is the minimum weight capacity category that should be considered?
- Standard (250 lb limit)
- Heavy-duty (300 lb limit)
- Extra heavy-duty (450 lb limit) (Correct answer)
- Ultra lightweight (200 lb limit)
Correct answer: Extra heavy-duty (450 lb limit)
Extra heavy-duty chairs rated for 450 lbs provide an adequate safety margin above the client's 350 lb weight.
Question 4: Camber on a manual wheelchair's rear wheels primarily improves which performance characteristic?
- Rearward stability on inclines
- Lateral stability and propulsion efficiency (Correct answer)
- Forward rolling resistance
- Footrest clearance on uneven terrain
Correct answer: Lateral stability and propulsion efficiency
Outward camber lowers the chair's center of gravity and widens the base, improving lateral stability and placing the push rim in a more ergonomic position.
Question 5: A client reports shoulder pain after six months of manual wheelchair use. Which seating adjustment should be evaluated first?
- Seat-to-floor height (axle position) (Correct answer)
- Anti-tip wheel placement
- Leg rest length
- Headrest angle
Correct answer: Seat-to-floor height (axle position)
Incorrect axle position relative to the shoulder alters propulsion biomechanics and is the leading modifiable factor in wheelchair-related shoulder injury.
Question 6: Which power wheelchair input device is most appropriate for a user with only reliable head movement?
- Proportional joystick
- Sip-and-puff control
- Head array (Correct answer)
- Chin control
Correct answer: Head array
A head array uses proximity sensors or switches around the headrest to detect head movements, providing directional control for users with full head range of motion.
Question 7: What does 'power seat functions' on a power wheelchair NOT typically include?
- Power tilt
- Power recline
- Powered anti-tip deployment (Correct answer)
- Power elevating legrests
Correct answer: Powered anti-tip deployment
Anti-tip wheels are passive mechanical devices; powered anti-tip deployment is not a standard power seat function category, whereas tilt, recline, and legrests are.
CMC Manual & Power Wheelchair Selection 2
A client with C6 tetraplegia wants to propel a manual wheelchair independently.
Which rim modification best supports this goal?