Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Determining and Controlling External Power Output During Regular Handrim Wheelchair Propulsion
Published on: February 5, 2020
Preventable wheelchair-related thermal injury
William Bull1, Michael Priebe, Gina Dillig
1Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Loyola University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA. jb@dupageplastics.com
Background/Objective:
Wheelchair-related injuries are common, and with proper reporting of injuries, advanced technologic support may offer new ways to prevent those injuries.
Method:
Case REPORT AND FINDINGS: A man with tetraplegia who retains only minimal use of his right hand experienced a right-sided armrest malfunction of his wheelchair resulting in his wheelchair controls being out of reach. This left him stranded in the sun for almost 2 hours in 86 degrees F weather. During that time, he developed full thickness sunburns of his left forearm and deep partial thickness burns of the left fingertips where they were in contact with the left armrest.
Conclusion:
This patient's full thickness burns could have been prevented if his motorized wheelchair had back-up communication in the event of a malfunction. Technology developers must realize the need for such systems. Health care professionals must advocate for a higher standard of safety and report injuries related to wheelchair malfunction.
Related Concept Videos
Decreased Body Temperature
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
Factors may include:
Burn Injuries
The damage results in the death of skin cells, which can lead to a massive loss of fluid. Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and renal and circulatory failure follow, which can be fatal. Burn patients are treated with intravenous fluids to offset...
Assessing Body Temperature - Rectal
Follow these steps for rectal temperature assessment:
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don clean gloves to prevent cross-infection.
Step 2: Position the patient in a side-lying position to better visualize the rectal...
Assessing Body Temperature - Temporal Artery
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don a fresh pair of gloves to prevent cross-infection and ensure patient safety.
Step 2: Explain the procedure to the patient to establish trust. Clear communication establishes trust with the patient, ensures they understand what to expect, promotes cooperation, and enhances comfort during the procedure.
Step 3: Assess the patient's forehead...
