UI HydroCare. iss1 06/11
The HydroCare is
fi
tted with castors which make them
suitable for portering clients on smooth, level ground.
When portering a client in a CareFlex chair, a pelvic
strap must be fastened around the client and correctly
adjusted.
The chair should not be pushed over large steps or
thresholds, or over rough or uneven ground. Suitable
surfaces for portering clients in the chair are level indoor
surfaces and outdoor surfaces such as smooth, even
asphalt and large paving slabs.
Deep pile carpet will require additional effort to move
the chair and should be avoided.
The HydroCare should not be used outdoors in damp or
wet weather. The chairs should not be used to porter
clients on slopes or inclines.
Before transferring in and out of the chair the brakes
on the castors should be applied. Always ensure that at
least two of the castor brakes are applied before a client
transfers in or out of the chair.
To apply the brakes begin by generally positioning the
chair. Once the chair is in the desired position push it
forward slightly. This will swing the rear castors around
to reveal the brake levers. Press down the end of the
levers to lock the brakes.
To release the brakes, gently kick the top of the brake
lever so that it clicks
fl
at.
Each castor has a brake. Apply at least two before
transfer.
5
3. Day to Day Use
3a. Brakes & Castors
Do not attempt to push the chair
with the brakes applied as this can
damage the castors and stress the
frame of the chair.
When portering a client;
• Bring the back of the chair to an upright position.
This will put the handle in a more appropriate
position and make the chair easier to push.
• Ensure the client’s feet are off the
fl
oor by placing
them on the sliding footplate.
• Use a pelvic strap to keep the client safely
positioned in the chair, especially if they are likely
to become agitated as they are being portered.
The chair should not be pushed over large steps or
thresholds, or over rough or uneven ground. Suitable
surfaces for portering clients in the chair are level
indoor surfaces and outdoor surfaces such as asphalt and
large paving slabs. CareFlex chairs should not be used
outdoors in damp or wet weather.
The chairs should not be used to porter clients on slopes
or inclines.
A risk assessment should be carried out for each client
and portering consideration, taking into account the
combined weight of the client and the chair and the
client’s condition, especially any agitated movement which
may de-stabilize the chair or lead to injury through
entrapment or impact with doorways, hand rails etc.
