SAFETY/HANDLING
SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
S A F E T Y
&
H A N D L I N G
“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires the close attention of the wheelchair user as well as the assistant. This manual points out the most common procedures and techniques involved in the safe op- eration and maintenance of the wheelchair. It is impor- tant to practice and master these safe techniques un- til you are comfortable in maneuvering around the fre- quently encountered architectural barriers.
Use this information only as a “basic” guide. The tech- niques that are discussed on the following pages have been used successfully by many.
Individual wheelchair users often develop skills to deal with daily living activities that may differ from those described in this manual. Invacare recognizes and en- courages each individual to try what works best for him/her in overcoming architectural obstacles that they may encounter. Techniques in this manual are a start- ing point for the new wheelchair user and assistant with “safety” as the most important consideration for all.
STABILITY AND BALANCE
WARNING
The seat restraint is an option on this wheelchair. Invacare strongly recom- mends ordering the seat restraint as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user.
To assure stability and proper operation of your wheel- chair, you must at all times maintain proper balance and wear your seat restraint, if so equipped. Your wheel- chair has been designed to remain upright and stable during normal daily activities as long as you do not move beyond the center of gravity.
DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any fur- ther than the length of the armrests. Make sure the casters are pointing in the forward position whenever you lean forward. This can be achieved by advancing the wheelchair and then reversing it in a straight line.
COPING WITH EVERYDAY OBSTACLES
Coping with the irritation of everyday obstacles can be alleviated somewhat by learning how to manage your wheelchair. Keep in mind your center of gravity to maintain stability and balance.
A NOTE TO WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANTS
When assistance to the wheelchair user is required, remember to use good body mechanics. Keep your back straight and bend your knees whenever tilting the wheelchair or traversing curbs, or other impedi- ments.
Also, be aware of any removable (detachable) parts. These must NEVER be used for
When learning a new assistance technique, have an experienced assistant help you before attempt- ing it alone.
TILTING
WA R N I N G
DO NOT tilt the wheelchair without as- sistance.
When tilting the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp the back of the wheelchair on a
TILTING - CURBS:
After mastering the techniques of tilting the wheel- chair, use one (1) of the following procedures to tackle curbs, short stairs, etc.
METHOD 1
Apply a continuous downward motion until the bal- ance point is achieved and the front casters clear the curb. At this point, the assistant will feel a differ- ence in the weight distribution.
Roll the wheelchair forward and slowly lower the wheelchair in one continuous movement onto the sidewalk. Do not let the wheelchair drop the last few inches to the ground. This could result in injury to the occupant. Push the wheelchair forward until the rear wheels roll up and over the curb.
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