Wheelchair to Toilet Transfer (Training Video & Guide) (2024)

FAQs

How do people in wheelchairs go to the toilet? ›

Many people find that using a transfer board or transfer disc to assist in the move is easiest. These devices allow the user to move safely and more smoothly from their chair to the toilet by bridging the gap in space between the two.

Flush valve is located in reach range and is operable without tight grasping, twisting, or pinching. Toilet seat height: The toilet seat needs to be from 17 to 19 inches above the floor to permit transfers to and from wheelchairs.

Commode chairs placed by the bed can help if you cannot walk to the toilet. These chairs have a built-in toilet pan and are suitable for patients who can get out of bed but have limited ability to walk to the toilet. Nursing staff will always help you to get on and off the commode if needed.

Face the person. Place their hands flat on the bed to help them push up or on your shoulders. Position yourself in front of the wheelchair user with a firm grip on the gait belt. If you are not using a gait belt, put your arms around the patient's chest and clasp your hands behind his or her back.

A common symptom experienced by those in a wheelchair is constipation, simply due to the fact that peristalsis (the wave-like motion that moves food through your digestive tract) does not take place. Eating foods that break down more easily is therefore beneficial.

Wheelchair users are less likely to have incontinence accidents when they empty their bladder every 2-3 hours on schedule, whether they feel like using the toilet or not. Keep a bladder journal.

Accessible toilets are specifically designed to provide enough space to accommodate wheelchair access and assistance when transferring from wheelchair to toilet. Accessible toilets include features such as lower mirrors and washbasins, contrasting toilet seat colour, grab rails and braille signage.

If moving to commode, position commode with enough room to complete transfer and maneuver lift. Remove footrests and apply brakes if wheeled commode. Adjust client's clothing prior to transfer. lean client forward.

How tall is a wheelchair accessible toilet? ›

To meet ADA toilet height requirements after installation, the top of the bowl—including the seat—must be between 17"-19" from the floor. Toilets labeled this way may not necessarily meet ADA requirements. Some may measure only to 16.5", which doesn't fall into the range listed above.

Size: A bathroom must be large enough to comfortably accommodate the needs of the individual. A standard accessible bathroom should allow for a turning radius of a standard sized wheelchair of 5 feet with at least a 32” pathway. Shower: Decide between a tub or a shower.

If you use a wheelchair or have trouble lifting your feet the shower should be level access. You can either use a free standing shower stool, a shower chair with a backrest, which is better if you have trouble sitting up, or a wall mounted seat .

Handsfree toilets in the home also use a type of technology that works on a motion sensor, but in this case, the sensor is located on the top of the tank and requires a hand be waved over it to activate the flush. This allows the user to close the lid before flushing.