Patient recliners are adjustable chairs that are designed specifically for patients and the elderly. They provide flexible reclining positions and comfortable support to help users rest, recover, or receive treatment while seated upright or reclined at an angle.Patient recliners are a staple of healthcare facilities like hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and in-home care settings.

Key Features of Modern Recliners

Adjustable Back and Leg Support

Modern recliners feature fully adjustable backrests and leg supports that can be precisely positioned. Backrests can recline up to 180 degrees to mimic laying down positions. Leg supports flex for comfortable extended leg rest. Padded arms allow shifting positions easily.

Breathable Upholstery

Recliners use breathable, moisture-wicking upholstery fabrics like vinyl, leatherette or soft padded fabrics. These fabrics are easy to clean and resist bacterial growth. Regular disinfection is possible which is important in clinical settings.

Weight Capacity and Durability

Most quality recliners support weights up to 350 pounds or more and are tested to handle intensive use over years. All moving parts like motors, linkages and cushioning are durable and reliable to reduce long-term maintenance needs.

Controls and Accessories

Many models integrate electric controls with buttons or remote to adjust positions conveniently. Some feature trapeze supports, tables and oxygen tank holders as optional accessories to assist patients. Weights activated chairs also provide no-effort recline.

Use of Patient Recliners in Healthcare

Recovery and Post-Surgery Care

Recliners are preferred over regular beds or chairs for post-surgery recovery. Adjustable positions aid mobility and reduce risks of bed sores or clots. Comfort eases pain management better than beds.

Dialysis and Chemotherapy Treatment

For dialysis or lengthy chemotherapy sessions, a recliner is more comfortable than a regular chair. Adjustable positions relieve pressure and fatigue over hours of treatment. Inclined positions improve circulation.

Disability and Geriatric Care

For the elderly or patients with limited mobility, recliners foster independence with accessibility of adjustable positions. Support relieves caregiver strain compared to lifting from beds or wheelchairs.

Rehabilitation Therapy

During physical, occupational or aquatic therapy, recliners allow treatment in a supported seated position. Therapists can easily adjust the chair for range-of-motion exercises compared to mats on the floor.

Key Considerations while Choosing a Patient Recliner

Intended Use and Weight Limits

Consider where the recliner will be used and for what purpose - at home, clinic or nursing home. Match the intended user's weight to the recliner's rated capacity.

Adjustability and Controls

Evaluate the range and precision of back and leg adjustments. Prefer automated or button controls over hand cranks for convenience. Consider optional accessories too.

Upholstery and Cleaning

Check that the fabric is breathable, moisture-wicking and can be easily cleaned. Vinyl or leatherette are best for clinical or in-home care use over fabrics.

Warranty and Service Support

Most brands provide 1-3 year limited warranties on parts and motors. Consider ones with on-site maintenance support too for long-term usage needs.

Budget

Costs vary based on brands, size, upholstery and powered options. Budget $500-2000 typically for a quality recliner suited for clinical or home care needs.

Conclusion

With adjustable positions, durable construction and user-friendly design features, recliners provide effective seating support for recovery, therapy and caring for patients. Choosing the right model based on intended usage needs ensures safe, assisted care and quality of life benefits. Recliners have become an essential part of modern healthcare.