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17. Hospital elevator doors need to be 1200 mm (4'-0") wide to more easily facilitate the movement of
gurneys, beds, and multiple wheelchairs.
18. See Transport Systems Design Manual. The larger car size is required for movement of gurneys and
multiple wheelchairs.
19. Handrails protect the car walls and provide stability for patients; the lower rail for wheelchairs, the
higher rail for gurney riders and standers.
20. Window sills must be low enough that seated (wheelchair) and bedridden patients can see outside.
21. A 1150 mm (3'-10") door to bedrooms is needed because beds with accessories are frequently
moved from one room to another.
22. An 800 mm (2'-8") opening is not adequate for some wheelchairs and most gurneys.
23. Disabled patients in wheelchairs aren't skilled in maneuvering wheelchairs, are usually weakened,
and space is often needed for someone to help.
24. The UFAS 900 mm x 900 mm (3'-0" x 3'-0") shower has a folding seat which requires the patient to
transfer from the wheelchair. The UFAS 750 mm x 1500 mm (2'-6" x 5'-0") shower admits a wheelchair,
but just barely. There is no room for the patient to maneuver or for attendants to help.
25. VA uses a standard 900 mm (3'-0") door to ensure a 850 mm (34") clear opening.
26. The additional width allows correct door width and makes the stall usable by wheelchair users.
27. Many disabled veterans use electric wheelchairs with a control stick that will not go under a table
with only 675 mm (2'-3") clearance.
28. Frail, disabled patients have a more limited reach than independent, more physically sound,
wheelchair users.
29. The VA Under Secretary for Health has advised that 100% accessibility makes nursing simpler, puts
less strain on staff, gives patients more independence, and requires less patient supervision by a limited staff.
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