How to Transport Bariatric 300 Lb Capacity Wheelchairs

Wheelchair vans, also known as ambulettes, transport patients in wheelchairs from place to place. Securing wheelchairs properly protects both the patient and the driver. Bariatric wheelchairs refer to larger sized chairs capable of transporting patients 300 lbs. or more. These larger wheelchairs may require specialized straps and braces to keep them secured while the van is in motion.

• 1

  Lower the ramp to the ground. Place the bariatric wheelchair onto the ramp. Assure all four wheels are on the ramp. Lock all four wheels to prevent the chair from moving. Using the ramp controls, raise the ramp until the back is flush with the floor of the ambulette. Unlock the wheels and push the chair into the patient compartment of the wheelchair van.

• 2

  Position the wheelchair properly where the braces and ratchet straps are located. Place the back wheels into the braces if they are present. Braces are typically located either on the floor or on one wall of the van. Secure the wheels into the braces then lock the wheels. Pull on the chair to see if the chair has been placed into the braces properly.

• 3

  Secure the bariatric wheelchair by attaching all seat belts and ratchet straps. Ratchet straps are typically positioned allowing each wheel to be tied using one strap. Place the ratchet strap on each wheel and tighten the strap by cranking the ratchet until the strap is pulled taught. Repeat for each strap present. Once the straps have been tightened into place, check for excessive movement by pulling on the wheelchair. Re-tighten straps if the chair moves more than one inch in any direction.

• 4

  Use special extension straps to extend seat belts so they fit around the bariatric chair. Attach the extensions to the seat belts located in the ambulette. Place one seat belt around the patient and the wheelchair. Insert the seat belts through the opening in the armrest of the chair. If these openings are not present, place the seat belt across the armrests around the back of the patient. Lock the seat belt in place and pull the strap to tighten it around the patient and chair. Make sure the strap is not too constricting around the patient. Again, test for excessive movement. Once the chair is fully secured, the patient can be transported.