SECTION
When tipping the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp the back of the wheelchair on a non‐removable (non‐detachable) part. Inform the wheelchair occupant before tipping the wheelchair and remind him/her to lean back. Be sure the occupant’s feet and hands are clear of all wheels and/or pinch points.
After mastering the techniques of tipping the wheelchair, use one of the following methods to tackle curbs, short stairs, etc.
Method 1 - Wheelchair With Step Tubes
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.3.
Place foot on the step tube and begin to tilt the wheelchair toward you. Apply a continuous downward motion until the balance point is achieved and the front casters clear the curb. At this point, the assistant will feel a difference in the weight distribution.
WARNING
When lowering the front casters of the wheel- chair, DO NOT let the wheelchair drop the last few inches to the ground. This could result in injury to the occupant and/or damage to the wheelchair.
Roll the wheelchair forward and slowly lower the front of the wheelchair in one continuous movement onto the sidewalk. Push the wheelchair forward until the rear wheels roll up and over the curb.
Step Tube
FIGURE 2.3 Method 1 - Wheelchair With Step Tubes
Method 2 - Wheelchair Without Step Tubes
WARNING
ALWAYS check hand grips for looseness before using the wheelchair. If loose and/or worn, replace IMMEDIATELY.
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.4. |
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This method requires two assistants. The second assistant |
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should be positioned at the front of the wheelchair lifting |
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upward on a non‐removable (non‐detachable) part of the |
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wheelchair frame when lifting the wheelchair and |
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stabilizing the wheelchair when the wheelchair is being |
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lowered to the ground. |
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The first assistant should stand on the sidewalk and turn the |
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wheelchair so that the rear wheels are against the curb. Turn |
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the anti‐tippers so the anti‐tip wheels are pointing up. The |
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wheelchair should be tilted back to the balance point and, in |
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one continuous upward movement, the rear wheels should |
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be pulled up and over the curb. DO NOT return the front | FIGURE 2.4 | Method 2 - Wheelchair Without Step | |
casters to the ground until the wheelchair has been pulled | |||
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backward far enough for the front casters to clear the edge |
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of the curb. |
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WARNING
When lowering the front casters of the wheelchair, DO NOT let the wheelchair drop the last few inches to the ground. This could result in injury to the occupant and/or damage to the wheelchair.
Part No. 1110546 | 11 | Tracer® EX2 |