Transport chair, adult size, heavy duty, patient weight capacity greater than 300 pounds
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Adult Heavy Duty Transport Chair (E1039)
- Common Names: Transport chair, Wheelchair, Heavy duty adult chair
- Technical/Medical Term: E1039
Summary
A heavy-duty transport chair is a type of wheelchair designed for adults who weigh more than 300 pounds, providing enhanced support and durability. It helps mobility-challenged individuals move comfortably and safely from one place to another.
Purpose
The main purpose of a heavy-duty transport chair is to assist individuals with limited mobility due to obesity, severe arthritis, or other medical conditions that impair movement. The chair aims to enhance the patient's independence, improve quality of life, and ensure safe transport within various settings.
Indications
- Severe mobility impairment
- Obesity with a weight exceeding 300 pounds
- Severe arthritis or musculoskeletal disorders
- Neurological conditions affecting mobility
- Post-surgical patients requiring temporary heavy-duty support
Preparation
- No specific fasting or medication adjustments required for using a transport chair.
- The patient should be assessed for the appropriate size and weight capacity.
- A healthcare provider may evaluate the patient's mobility needs and overall health condition to recommend the best transport chair model.
Procedure Description
- The healthcare provider assists the patient in transferring to the transport chair.
- The chair’s features, such as adjustable footrests and padded armrests, are adjusted to ensure comfort.
The transport chair is then used to move the patient from one location to another, with a caregiver or healthcare professional aiding in propulsion if self-propulsion is not possible.
Tools and Equipment
- Heavy duty transport chair (E1039)
- Padding accessories for comfort
- Safety belts and brakes
Anesthesia or Sedation
- Not applicable
Duration
Using a transport chair can range from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the patient's needs and the distance to be covered.
Setting
The transport chair can be used in various settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Rehabilitation centers
- Nursing homes
- At home
- Public spaces
Personnel
- Caregivers
- Nurses
- Physical therapists, if needed
Risks and Complications
- There is a minimal risk involved with using a transport chair, but potential issues include:
- Skin irritation or pressure sores from prolonged sitting
- Strain or injury to caregivers from improper handling
- Regular maintenance and correct usage can mitigate most risks.
Benefits
- Enhanced mobility and independence for the patient
- Safe and efficient transport for individuals with significant weight
- Improved quality of life and daily comfort
- Immediate benefits realized from the first use
Recovery
- No specific recovery is associated with using a transport chair.
- Regularly scheduled follow-ups to assess the patient’s comfort and the equipment's condition.
Alternatives
- Standard wheelchairs for individuals weighing less than 300 pounds
- Motorized scooters for self-propulsion
- Walkers or canes for those with partial mobility
- Pros of the transport chair include higher weight capacity and increased stability; cons might include dependency on another individual for movement.
Patient Experience
- Patients may feel somewhat limited in movement due to reliance on the chair and caregiver.
- Comfort measures include padded seating and customized adjustments.
- Pain is generally not associated with the use of a transport chair, though initial unfamiliarity might cause minor discomfort which usually resolves with proper fitting and usage.