The Exam Chair’s Impact on Patients and Caregivers

11/11/2024

The right exam room equipment makes a crucial difference in both patient outcomes and caregiver safety. Particularly for patients with mobility limitations, accessible healthcare environments are essential. Unfortunately, traditional examination chairs—especially fixed-height models—can significantly impact patient care and increase physical strain for caregivers.

Impact on the Patient

In a survey of practice administrators, 44% reported that parts of an exam were skipped when patients with disabilities could not transfer onto the exam chair. Patients were often examined in wheelchairs instead, leading to limited exams and an increased risk of misdiagnosis.

The accessibility of an adjustable-height chair can greatly improve patient comfort and safety. One study conducted by Dr. Guy Fragala, PhD, PE, CSP, CSPHP and colleagues showed that patients reported exerting less effort when using height-adjustable chairs, which is particularly valuable for those with mobility limitations. These patients also reported feeling safer and more stable when transferring to height-adjustable examination chairs compared to fixed-height tables, helping reduce the risk of falls.

Dr. Fragala stated, “As new ambulatory clinics are built and renovations are done to existing clinics, the benefits of height-adjustable examination chairs need to be recognized, and those making decisions on furnishings need to understand how height-adjustable exam chairs can add to the quality of care provided.”

Impact on the Caregiver

Fixed-height tables don’t just challenge patients; they also create risks for caregivers. Assisting patients onto fixed tables can lead to musculoskeletal injuries among healthcare staff. In fact, one out of five of all injuries reported in the United States today is healthcare related. And healthcare workers are almost three times as likely to suffer from work-related injuries than construction workers.

Ergonomically designed adjustable-height examination chairs can minimize the physical exertion required, helping make transfers safer for both patients and caregivers. Height-adjustable chairs have been shown to reduce the risk of back injuries for caregivers by allowing for a more ergonomic posture during exams. This safer environment promotes better compliance with care protocols, oftentimes leading to improved patient care and overall outcomes.

“The exam table is the central and most important furnishing in the ambulatory care clinic,” stated Dr. Fragala. “This research demonstrates that using height-adjustable, accessible exam chairs can improve the environment of care by significantly reducing occupational risk to caregivers while improving quality of care for patients.”

The Solution: The Midmark 626 Barrier-Free® Examination Chair

The Midmark 626 Barrier-Free® Examination Chair is an ideal solution for accessible patient care. Compliant with the 2024 US Access Board Standards for Accessible Medical Diagnostic Equipment, the Midmark 626 features a low seat height of 15 ½ inches, making it easier for patients with mobility challenges to transfer independently.

This chair not only meets but exceeds the Access Board’s guidelines for a maximum low seat height of 17 inches, distinguishing itself as the only chair currently on the market to achieve this level of accessibility.

In addition to its low height, the Midmark 626 provides an adjustable transfer surface, ensuring that caregivers can raise the chair to an ergonomic height, reducing the risk of injury to themselves and patients. There is also the option of adding support rails for patient stability, further enhancing safety during transfers. For clinics looking to improve both patient access and caregiver and patient safety, this chair represents a crucial advancement.

Click here for more information on Midmark® and Ritter® Barrier-Free Examination Chairs.