Medical Weighing Scales

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A medical weighing scale is a type of weighing scale that is used to measure body weight. There are many versions of medical weighing scales available on the market today, but most fall into three categories: those that measure only body weight, those that measure body weight and body mass index (BMI), and medical weighing scales for people confined to wheelchairs. Within these three categories of medical weighing scales, there are literally hundreds of options to choose from. By narrowing down some of these specifications and brand names, understanding what a medical weighing scale actually does is much clearer.

The most basic medical weighing scale available is the mechanical, non-digital scale. The patient stands on the scale platform and moves the poise bars manually until the weight is read in pounds or kilograms. Typically, these scales have a 300lb/135kilo limit on body weight. Almost all of these models also come with a height measuring bar, which extends out from the scale and measures the height of the person standing on it. Prices for these scales always vary depending on brand and model. The features that ...
... you require will also play a role in price.

Another version of a standing medical weighing scale, which is somewhat of a “step-up” from the mechanical models, would be a digital scale. Most digital medical weighing scales not only measure weight, but body mass index (BMI) as well. In addition to this, many digital medical weighing scales can be purchased in a platform/remote version, which is a platform for the patient to stand on and a remote control device which is hand-held or wall mounted, and displays the weight on a small screen. Most models available on the market today come with at least a 2-year warranty. Another advantage of these standing medical weighing scales is the non-skid rubber mat on the platform, which prevents patients from slipping while they are being weighed. The digital models commonly hold a maximum weight of 500lb/220kilos. While the digital scales typically cost more than mechanical versions, they tend to be more accurate, and are highly recommended in the medical field.

Another important variant of the medical weighing scale is the wheelchair scale, which is a large platform with one or two ramps. The digital indicator has the capability to tare the weight of the wheelchair and read only the weight of the patient. Some models allow the tare weight of a number of standard models of wheelchairs to be saved in memory, and easily recalled. The most important thing to consider when purchasing a wheelchair medical weighing scale is the platform. The platform should be sturdy welded aluminum, with rugged stainless steel load cells. Preferably, it should include two ramps for ease of pushing the wheelchair onto and then off of the platform. Most wheelchair scales are digital, and come with a remote digital indicator that reads the patient weight. Due to the fact that this is a more specialized medical product, they are more expensive than standard medical weighing scales. Wheelchair scales are also available with higher weight capacity and larger platforms to accept larger bariatric wheelchairs and patients.

Another important feature to look for in Medical scales is construction that will allow for easy cleaning, and high durability of the equipment.