Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

How should the average seat width of a wheelchair be determined?

1. By measuring the user’s foot length

2. By obtaining the width of the user’s shoulders

3. By measuring the widest aspect of the patient's buttocks, hips, or thighs and adding two inches

4. By measuring the user's hip joint width

The correct answer is: By measuring the widest aspect of the patient's buttocks, hips, or thighs and adding two inches

Determining the average seat width of a wheelchair is crucial for ensuring comfort, stability, and functionality for the user. The most accurate method involves measuring the widest aspect of the user’s buttocks, hips, or thighs and then adding two inches. This approach takes into consideration the natural width of the user's body, allowing for additional space to accommodate clothing and provide some ease of movement. This prevents the user from feeling cramped or restricted, which can be essential for comfort and proper posture during use. In contrast, other methods, such as measuring the user's foot length or shoulder width, do not directly correlate with the necessary seat width. The foot length will not influence the overall seating space required, and shoulder width does not account for the individual’s needs when seated, leading to a less accurate measurement. Measuring the hip joint width may provide a more relevant dimension but doesn’t consider the full girth required for comfort and practicality, which is why the specified method is preferred.