Name of the Procedure:

Power Wheelchair Accessory Installation: 12 to 24 Amp Hour Sealed Lead Acid Battery
Common Names: Power Wheelchair Battery Replacement, Gel Cell Battery, Absorbed Glass Mat Battery

Summary

This procedure involves the installation of a 12 to 24 amp hour sealed lead acid battery, such as a gel cell or absorbed glass mat, into a power wheelchair. The new battery ensures the wheelchair has sufficient power to operate effectively.

Purpose

This procedure is conducted to replace or upgrade the battery of a power wheelchair, ensuring the device remains functional and reliable. It addresses power supply issues, such as decreased battery life or performance problems, and aims to restore the wheelchair's optimal performance.

Indications

• Reduced battery life or performance in the power wheelchair
• Wheelchair not holding a charge or dying quickly
• Diagnosed battery failure or malfunction
• Recommendations from a healthcare provider or wheelchair technician

Preparation

• Ensure the power wheelchair is turned off and disconnected from any power sources.
• Remove the existing battery according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• No special fasting or medication adjustments are generally required.

Procedure Description

1. Turn off the wheelchair: Ensure the device is completely powered down.
2. Remove old battery: Open the battery compartment, disconnect the cables, and remove the old battery carefully.
3. Install new battery: Place the new 12 to 24 amp hour sealed lead acid battery into the battery compartment. Secure it in place as per the manufacturer's guidelines.
4. Reconnect cables: Attach the positive and negative cables to the corresponding terminals on the new battery.
5. Close compartment: Securely close the battery compartment.

Tools and Equipment:

• Replacement battery (gel cell or absorbed glass mat)
• Basic tools for opening the battery compartment (e.g., screwdriver)

Anesthesia or Sedation: Not applicable.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 20-30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure can be performed:

• At home by the user or caregiver with proper instructions
• In a mobility equipment provider's shop
• At a healthcare facility with specialized personnel

Personnel

• Wheelchair user or caregiver
• Mobility equipment technician
• Occasionally, healthcare provider for specific recommendations

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks:
  • Minor electrical shocks if not done correctly
  • Improper installation leading to wheelchair malfunction
• Rare Risks:
  • Battery leakage
  • Short circuitry with improper handling

Benefits

• Expected Benefits:
  • Restored functionality and reliability of the power wheelchair
  • Extended usage time per charge

Timeframe for Realization:

• Immediate improvement in wheelchair performance post-installation

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care:
  • Ensure the battery is fully charged before the first use
  • Monitor the wheelchair's performance over the next few days
• Recovery Time:
  • No physical recovery time required for the patient
  • Follow-up appointments are not generally needed unless complications arise

Alternatives

• Other Treatment Options:
  • Using different types of batteries (e.g., lithium-ion)
  • Repairing or refurbishing the existing battery
• Pros and Cons:
  • Lithium-ion batteries may offer longer life but are more expensive
  • Repairing a battery may not be as reliable as replacement

Patient Experience

• During Procedure:
  • Minimal involvement, typically no discomfort
• After Procedure:
  • Immediate use of the wheelchair with improved performance
• Pain Management and Comfort Measures:
  • Not applicable, the procedure is non-invasive