For most people with mild to moderate mobility problems or for those that just need a bit of support while walking a three wheeled walkers is a great option. They are designed to be very easy to maneuver and turn, and they are great for smaller spaces where the larger two or four wheeled square shaped wheeled walkers may be difficult to use.

Three wheeled walkers may not provide enough support for those with very significant mobility problems. Often individuals that will need to take frequent breaks and may have difficulty in body movement may find the additional stability of a two wheeled walker a better option. The best way to decide is to test drive different models of walkers to determine which one works best for the individual. Try them both indoors as well as outdoors to determine the model and type that is most suitable for the patient.

What types of accessories are available for wheeled walkers?

One of the most common accessories for wheeled walkers includes different sizes and types of wheels and glider attachments. Just like any type of tire or wheel the ones on a walker can become old, plus gliders can become rough or even wear through with continual use. Both wheels and gliders are very easy to change out and are low cost accessories for the wheeled walker.

Pouches and tote bags that hook over the cross brace on a folding or wheeled walker can also be a wonderful accessory to help with transporting purses, purchases and other items. These pouches may be covered or open and can have several compartment or pockets for easy organization and storage. Baskets, which are typically wire or durable plastic, provide a solid type of pouch that makes carrying even heavier objects simple and easy. Like the pouches they are designed to hook onto the cross brace of a two and four wheeled walker or a standard folding walker without wheels.

What is a knee walker and what is it used and designed for?

Knee walkers are unique in that they feature a four wheeled type mechanism that is slightly modified. The front wheels are fairly narrow in spacing when compared to a standard walker and the real wheels are very close together. There is a knee height platform that allows the user to rest one leg on the platform, either right or left, while still using the other leg for mobility. A knee wheeled walker replaces the need for crutches that can cause sores, back pain and general discomfort with extended use.

Wheeled walkers such as knee model of walker can also be adjusted to different heights. Just like standard wheeled walkers they have brakes in the hand grips for safety and also are durable, lightweight and easy to transport. Wheeled knee walkers are an important consideration for those recovering from any type of lower leg or foot injury, surgery or other type of mobility problem.

For most people with mild to moderate mobility problems or for those that just need a bit of support while walking a three wheeled walkers is a great option. They are designed to be very easy to maneuver and turn, and they are great for smaller spaces where the larger two or four wheeled square shaped wheeled walkers may be difficult to use.

Three wheeled walkers may not provide enough support for those with very significant mobility problems. Often individuals that will need to take frequent breaks and may have difficulty in body movement may find the additional stability of a two wheeled walker a better option. The best way to decide is to test drive different models of walkers to determine which one works best for the individual. Try them both indoors as well as outdoors to determine the model and type that is most suitable for the patient.

What types of accessories are available for wheeled walkers?

One of the most common accessories for wheeled walkers includes different sizes and types of wheels and glider attachments. Just like any type of tire or wheel the ones on a walker can become old, plus gliders can become rough or even wear through with continual use. Both wheels and gliders are very easy to change out and are low cost accessories for the wheeled walker.

Pouches and tote bags that hook over the cross brace on a folding or wheeled walker can also be a wonderful accessory to help with transporting purses, purchases and other items. These pouches may be covered or open and can have several compartment or pockets for easy organization and storage. Baskets, which are typically wire or durable plastic, provide a solid type of pouch that makes carrying even heavier objects simple and easy. Like the pouches they are designed to hook onto the cross brace of a two and four wheeled walker or a standard folding walker without wheels.

What is a knee walker and what is it used and designed for?

Knee walkers are unique in that they feature a four wheeled type mechanism that is slightly modified. The front wheels are fairly narrow in spacing when compared to a standard walker and the real wheels are very close together. There is a knee height platform that allows the user to rest one leg on the platform, either right or left, while still using the other leg for mobility. A knee wheeled walker replaces the need for crutches that can cause sores, back pain and general discomfort with extended use.

Wheeled walkers such as knee model of walker can also be adjusted to different heights. Just like standard wheeled walkers they have brakes in the hand grips for safety and also are durable, lightweight and easy to transport. Wheeled knee walkers are an important consideration for those recovering from any type of lower leg or foot injury, surgery or other type of mobility problem.

Virtually all models and styles of rolling walkers have several different adjustments that can be made to accommodate for different heights. With that being said there are still some very definite issues that need to be addressed for those that are above average height and weight and those that are petite in size. Generally most rolling walkers and standard walkers will come in two basic sizes, youth and adult. Youth sizes are typically for individuals between four feet four inches and five feet three inches and adult sizes go up to six foot three. Different manufacturers may have slightly different sizing options. Typical rolling walkers can support people between 250 and 300 pounds, again depending on the specifications of the individual model. Using a rolling walker if you are over or under the size specifications can pose a safety issue. This is because the handlebars or grip bar and the seat can only be adjusted so high or low to maintain the stability and safety of the walker.

What is the basic difference between a two, three and four wheeled walker?

Two and four wheeled rolling walkers have four legs and a square to rectangular shape of frame. Two wheeled models only have wheels on the front two legs, allowing for a very stable, secure walker that is easy to move yet very easy to control. Four wheeled walkers have wheels on all four legs, making them easier to maneuver and walk with over longer distances. Both two and four wheeled rolling walkers have hand brakes that are similar to brakes on a bicycle, operating easily from the hand grip position to lock the wheels and prevent the walker from rolling forward when not required. Most two and four wheeled rolling walkers also have a flip up seat, some have a backrest and even additional padding on the seat for comfort.

Three wheeled rolling walkers look like a tricycle on the base. The front wheel typically swivels for easy turning and cornering even in very small spaces such as bathrooms and elevators. Three wheeled rolling walkers may or may not have seats depending on the model and design. Three wheeled walkers, like the two and four wheeled models may also come with additional features such as carrying baskets, totes and water bottle holders. They also have adjustments for height on the handles plus those with seats do have adjustment for the heights of seats as well.

Some two, three and four wheeled rolling walkers can also be folding walkers, making them easy to transport and move about with on public transportation. All rolling walkers from reputable manufacturers will also have warranties from the company, typically which include manufacturer's defects on the frame as well as limited warranties on the brakes and other features of the walker.

Rollator walkers have an outstanding reputation as walkers that are designed for safety, security and mobility. They are durable and long lasting, plus they are backed by some of the best warranties found in wheeled or folding walkers. In addition Rollator offers a wide range of walker types including two, three and four wheeled options. One of the major advantageous of a Rollator walker is that they are all designed to be very lightweight. Most models are well under 20 pounds and can easily be moved about by most individuals for storage and transportation. What are some key features of Rollator walkers? One key feature that makes a Rollator walker a popular choice is that the walkers are designed to be very durable but also look great and stand up to average wear and tear. They also have various frame colors from blue to teal and red or chrome colors. Upholstery on the flip up seat and backrest will be padded and very durable, providing a comfortable spot to rest if needed. Additional features include wire baskets for carrying items, soft totes and easy to change out wheels. Most models use a loop looking brake that operates similar to a bicycle break. There is also a locking feature that can be engaged when the individual is sitting on the walker or doesn't want to move. Brakes are easily released when movement is required. The walkers are designed to support set weight and height amounts with adjustments between approximately 31 and 36 inches for handlebar height, depending on the specific model and type of Rollator walker. In addition Rollator walker options also come in bariatric models that are wider through the frame, have a wider seat as have a weight limit of up to 350 pounds. These models are also slightly heavier and will weigh approximately 29 pounds to provide the stability necessary for slightly heavier individuals. Are their warranties included for Rollator walkers and what does the warranty cover? In general and based on the specific model of Rollator walker the warranty time will be different on specific components of the walker. Some models have three year warranties on the frame and brakes and one year warranties on all other features of the walker. The knee walker actually has a lifetime limited warranty, and other walkers will have various types of warranties and options. Generally additions and extras to the walker are not covered by warranty. How easy are Rollator walkers to adjust for different sizes of users? Many of the Rollator walker models offer tool free adjustment for height on the handles and the seat. Those that do require tools are still very easy to adjust, tighten and maintain as fasteners are designed to stay tight and not work loose with use. As with any type of mobility device it is recommended that all adjustments be checked on a routine basis and tightened if necessary to prevent any possible safety issues while in use.

This question is a bit difficult to answer as a general statement since different types of surgical procedures may require highly focused lights from multiple angles. In general a single arm version of operating room light and OR lights is a great option, however it may not be all that is needed. Multiple arms on the same track or trolley in the operating room allow the light source to be directed from multiple points, giving the most comprehensive lighting.

Multiple arm operating room light and OR lights are also typically more space saving than having a single arm ceiling mount and lamp or stand type lights for additional lighting when needed. Stand types of lights can be difficult to store plus they do need to be carefully positioned around a surgical table to avoid restricting access to the patient by the staff.

What types of bulbs are used in operating room lights and OR lights?

There are several different options when it comes to operating room lights and OR lights with regards to types of bulbs. It is important to realize that bulbs and lights are uniquely matched and it is not possible to switch bulb types within fixtures, unless explicitly approved by the manufacturers of both the bulb and the fixture.

Most specialized types of lights used in operating rooms and OR rooms will be halogen, halogen-xenon, metal halide or LED types of bulbs. LED lights are generally used for spot type focus while the other types of bulbs may be used for wider lighted areas and even entire surgical and operating rooms. Combining different types of specialized fixtures and bulbs within a room is also a possibility to provide the brightest, truest light available.

What is an important feature to look for in operating room light and OR lights?

One very important consideration when selecting operating room light and OR lights is the maintenance factor. Lights for the OR are designed with smooth surfaces for easy cleaning and disinfecting, which includes protecting the bulbs but also in the actual fixture design itself. Operating room light and OR lights also have to be designed to allow easy to change out bulbs. Many fixtures now offer options to change out bulbs without the requirement of specialized tools, making maintenance much less complicated than the older models.

It is also important to consider the lifespan of the bulbs as advertised by the manufacturer. Some of the newer spot types of LED lamps used in both flexible positioning surgical lamps as well as ceiling mounted fixtures can last an amazing 50,000 hours, which translates to about 5.7 years of use for each and every bulb.

Halogen types of bulbs also have long lasting lifetimes of up to 2000 hours, plus they also have the ability to provide very specific lighting sources ideal for the demanding lighting needs in an operating room as well as a patient examination room.

A double door narcotic safe offers several safety features that are not found with a single door model. The most obvious is that anyone trying to gain entry to the safe with or without keys has to go through two different locks and doors rather than just one. This means that they would have to physically break through two sets of stainless steel or 18 or more gauge steel in order to get to the contents. With a double door narcotic safe there is also more security for staff as they can always lock one door when preparing medications, never leaving the narcotic safe completely open. This type of practice can prevent accidental removal of items if the staff is distracted or called away during this time. What types of locking mechanism are used in a narcotic safe and why? In most typical narcotic safe models either a cam locking mechanism or a tubular locking mechanism is used on the doors. Double locking doors will have two similar locks but both will require a different set of keys. In addition all boxes come with a unique key set, meaning that someone having a key for a similar model of box will only have access to that one specific box. This can be very important in hospitals and health care facilities with high staff turn over and the possibility of lots of keys in circulation. Locks used in the high quality narcotic safe models are also designed to resist being picked. This is an important feature as thefts from narcotic safe boxes are a real concerns for health care facilities. What type of storage space is available inside a narcotic safe? Depending on the size and type of narcotic safe there may be a fairly large amount of storage space or a relatively small space available. Typically the smaller the size of narcotic safe the fewer the number of shelves, with some cabinets under 12 inches in height not having any fixed or adjustable shelves. Larger narcotic safes may have two, three or four shelves, some models which may be adjustable while others may be fixed. Different facilities will need more or less storage space in a narcotic safe. It is better to consider one larger safe than have several smaller cases as this allows for central control and monitoring of keys and access to the narcotic safe. Is a narcotic safe covered under any type of warranty? Generally most manufacturers will provide a warranty against manufacturer's defects for a period of time after the purchase of the narcotic safe. In a great many cases this warranty will extend to up to five years from the time of purchase, but it is not comprehensive against all possible issues with the safe that may occur due to misuse, incorrect installation or other issues. It will cover any defects in the safe that prevent the proper functioning and use of the safe, provided the narcotic safe has not be modified or changed after the purchase was made.

In general virtually every model and style of a narcotic cabinet used in a hospital or health care facility will be made of steel. Some will be constructed of stainless steel while others will be of 18 to 22 gauge steel. Generally the larger the gauge number of the steel the heavier and more secure the cabinet will be. Steel is resistant to fire and damage by water, plus it is very difficult to cut or pry apart at seams and joins, making this an almost impenetrable type of cabinet without the keys to open the locks. Even the doors are fitted to closely meet with the cabinet frame, preventing little option for wedging or prying on the narcotic cabinet.

In addition many of the steel narcotic cabinet doors come with full length stainless steel hinges, sometimes known as piano hinges. Having these long hinges down the door prevents the pin from being removed to allow anyone to gain access to the cabinet.

What are some additional features that should be considered when purchasing a narcotic cabinet?

Additional safety features to a standard one door, one lock type of narcotic cabinet can include adding additional locks as well as adding additional doors. Two door cabinets have a different key for each door, both which are independently locked of each other. Double doors also prevent anyone from tampering with the exterior door and immediately gaining access to narcotics within.

Keys that cannot be removed when the door is in the open position provide safety as well. This feature means that keys cannot be taken out of the locks unless the door is secured and in the correct locking position. Warning lights that stay on when the door is open provide a quick way for staff to check that the door is locked and in the correct position before walking away or leaving.

How can a smaller sized narcotic cabinet be made safer within a medical supply room?

Some of the smallest narcotic cabinet models are only 10 by 7 by 7 and may weigh just 5 pounds, very easy to pick up and carry without much effort. In order to prevent this from happening, several security measures can be added. The easiest is to keep these smaller narcotic cabinet models within pre-existing locking cabinets, cupboards or medicine storage areas. This prevents anyone not on staff from having access to the areas where the narcotics are located and stored.

The second option is to also mount the smaller sized narcotic cabinet to a wall, countertop or shelf. Many come pre-drilled with mounting brackets for easy installation. Securing the narcotic cabinet to a permanent surface means it cannot be moved without having the key to access the bracket and screws holding the unit in place.

There are several different types of nebulizers that can be used for both children or adults, but there are also specialized nebulizers just for children. For older children nebulizers in the shape of checkered cabs are a fun way to allow breathing treatments to occur without looking like a medical procedure. These devices are easy to use for the child as all they have to hold is the mouthpiece, the "cab" sitting on the table includes the pump, filters and the power supply. There are also duck shapes, fire trucks, bears and penguins among several other styles and designs developed to be less frightening and complicated for younger kids.

Adults and older, more mature children also have several choices in styles of nebulizers. Micro-mist types of nebulizers are designed to provide an even, fine administration of the bronchodilator medication in the correct size of low-micron particles.

Are there any options in respiratory care equipment to help with dry, bleeding noses or continuous runny noses due to colds, humidity problems and flu symptoms?

There are several options to help with dry air found in most homes and offices during the winter months. Air is dryer due to forced air type heating systems which remove the natural moisture from the air. This can result in more sinus problems, dry, bleeding noses and constant cold and sinus headaches. A device that works to spay a fine mist up into the nasal passage can provide immediate relief to dry, irritated nasal lining and reduce problems with nosebleeds and painful breathing. In addition the gentle cleansing action will also cause drainage of blocked sinuses, reducing runny noses and relieving sinus pressure and headaches.

Humidifiers can also be used in rooms or in conjunction with CPAP machines to help keep the air moist and soothing for your nose and airways. Always use humidifiers, especially with CPAP machines, according to your doctor's directions.

Is there anyway besides air purifiers and cleaners to remove allergens from a home?

There are several options to remove allergens from a home, although typically they are used in conjunction with a high quality HEPA air filtration system or a system that uses HEPA filters in combination with a UV light to kill microorganisms that may be too small for the HEPA filter. Disinfecting with a high quality germicide and fungicide is also a great option to remove any sites of mold, fungus or bacterial growth in the home. This is particularly important in areas that are naturally moist such as in the bathroom and the kitchen areas.

Dusting products can be used that trap and hold allergens, dust, dander and mold spores to the dusting cloth. These are different than furniture dusters or polishes as they actually trap and hold the allergen to the duster, not just allow it to be more easy collected. As with all products, using it in conjunction with everything listed above will be the most effective option for the entire home.

Having several different options when using sanitizers and disinfectants in health care settings is considered to be the best option. Some types of cleaners and disinfectants are easier to work with in different environments, plus some disinfectants have additional features such as room fresheners added right to the solution for clean, fresh smelling rooms.

Citrus based germicidal cleaners are a popular option in many facilities since they provide outstanding germicidal properties, have a pleasant citrus scent and don't use harsh chemicals that are not environmentally friendly. These products are also non-flammable, making them a good option for any type of patient care area.

What are the essential types of respiratory supplies that need to be on hand heading into the flu season?

Any breathing type supplies including air bags, tubing, adaptors, connectors and valves should all be kept in good supply. In addition home breathing machines such as the various types of CPAP machines are also important both year round as well as in the colder winter flu season. Extra oxygen cylinders, regulators and tank holders should also be available in the event of a flu outbreak within a specific community or area. Since additional breathing problems are typically a sign of all types of flu, colds and respiratory infections it is highly likely that a dramatic increase in the need for these types of respiratory supplies will occur.

Additional complications with flu outbreaks such as N1H1 and other types of Influenza A and B strains will also contribute to the demand for respiratory supplies. Since these supplies will also be needed year round, the flu season is definitely the time to check supplies and order in extras.

Are there significant size differences in breathing masks, bags and other types of respiratory supplies?

All manufacturers produce a range of sizes of different types of respiratory supplies and equipment for use on a variety of patients. Adult sizes are designed to fit the nose, mouth and head of an adult, depending on the device. Sizes for children range from those highly specialized for premature infants through to sizes for more mature children. Having the right size of respiratory supplies on hand only makes the staff's work that much less stressful. It also allows more effective administration of air, oxygen and medications to the patients because everything has been designed particularly for that patient's particular size.

Face masks including AMBU, B.O.C, R.B.S and clear silicone face masks come in a variety of sizes, each shaped and molded to fit a particular size of child or adult. Likewise air bags used for children, juveniles and adults are also different sizes to prevent the staff from having to worry about air volume entering into the lungs from incorrectly sized bags.

There are several residential models of air purifiers and cleaners that are just as effective as the system wide treatment products used in hospitals and health care settings. Home systems can be used for treatment of individual rooms or the entire home, depending on the location of the system and what is required. In general air purifiers and cleaners with HEPA filters are a good start and combining HEPA filters with UV light in air purifiers and cleaners will provide the same level of control that hospitals and clinical settings use.

For controlling the smaller allergens that may go through a HEPA type of filter, UV light is really the most effective option. These types of allergy treatment programs can remove any organic types of matter from the air and literally destroy it before it causes any allergic reactions.

Can your air conditioning unit actually be causing allergy problems?

Molds, mildew, bacteria, yeast and other potential spore producing fungi can and do live in the air conditioning coils and drains of your air conditioning unit. These contaminants and allergens then are right within the unit, blowing out through your home every time the air conditioner comes on. The conditions around the coils are ideal for growth of these types of microorganisms since it is dark, wet and warm. UV light systems that provide cycles of UV light to the air conditioner coils kill both the spores as well as the adult organisms. Typically this results in a very quick decrease in the amount of allergens in the home or building, often with very dramatic positive health results.

Is Hay Fever the same as an allergy and what is the treatment?

Hay fever is a type of allergic reaction, typically to dust, smoke and pollen. Like any other type of allergy, reducing the contaminants that trigger the hay fever is the best way to avoid any complications as the symptoms of the allergy. Since HEPA filters, UV light treatment or a combination of both will remove dust, pollen and some smoke from the air they are great options. Active carbon and other types of filters can also be added to completely remove smoke, VOC's and other irritants that may be triggering the reaction.

What information proves that air cleaners and purifiers can help with allergy treatment and prevention?

There have been several studies done on the effectiveness of UV light types of air cleaners and purifiers in different buildings, hospitals and facilities. McGill University recently completed a study in November of 2003 that indicated that the use of UV germicidal lights resulted in a 20% decrease workers calling in sick and a 40% overall decrease in respiratory problems reported by those working in the building.

In addition HEPA filters have long been used in air purifiers and cleaners in hospital settings and can effectively remove 99.9% of all contaminants in the air that are 0.3 microns and larger.

What is the most important feature to consider in airborne allergy care in residential or office type settings?

Keeping the air free from potential allergy causing airborne contaminants is the single most important way to prevent airborne allergy problems. Although there are great ways to disinfect surfaces, keep hands constantly washed and even use holistic and pharmaceutical regimes to help keep bodies healthy, once an allergen is in the body the body is going to react.

Using air purifiers and cleaners to constantly remove allergens from the air in circulation in the building is really the key. Airborne allergy care through air purifiers or cleaners also cuts down on viruses and bacteria in the air, leading to less sick time in buildings and fewer problems with germs being passed back and forth between family members.

How are UV air purifiers and cleaners safe to use when people are in the room or the building?

UV light can be very damaging to any type of living organism, however in air purifiers and cleaners the UV light bulbs are located within the air purifier or cleaner unit, completely shielded from any expose of the individuals in and around the system. These systems are so save they are even used in hospitals, clinics and medical treatment facilities where maintaining contaminant free environments are absolutely essential to the health and recovery of patients.

UV light sources for some types of air purifiers are not shielded, and these systems are only used in vacant rooms. Even these systems have safety features built into place to prevent any accidental exposure. One important safety feature is a infrared motion detector that automatically shuts down the system with any movement in the room. Individuals cannot accidentally walk into a room when the UV cleaner is in the sterilization part of the cycle, ensuring there is no harm when these types of accidents occur.

What other ways can homes use to deal with airborne allergy care?

Carefully controlling the levels of dust, VOC's, molds and other types of environmental contaminants in the home can really cut down on airborne allergy problems. This means routine dusting, vacuuming and disinfecting as well as keeping the home with a humidity level of less than 50%. Higher humidity tends to encourage the growth of molds, fungus and mildews that in turn lead to more allergy symptoms and problems.

Can controlling allergy symptoms help in reducing asthma attacks?

Since allergies cause irritation in the sinuses and airways, chronic or even occasional allergic reactions to airborne contaminants can lead to chronic irritation of the airways. Since asthma is a similar condition that results in the airways actually closing, any previous irritation from allergy symptoms will just increase the chance of an asthma attack. Airborne allergy care really can help cut down on asthma problems for those already diagnosed, and it may also help decrease the likelihood of someone developing asthma in the future.

Air purifiers and cleaners, disinfectants, routine fresh air exchange in homes and even proper venting and circulation of air in the home can have significant health benefits besides just controlling allergies.