5
ES
IT
FR
NL
DE FI
DA NO
SV
GB
ILL.
Practical handling
Position OWG Long in the chair before the user.
OWG Long can be positioned in three different ways.
Fold OWG in the middle so that the grey velvet sides are up and
down. Push the functional handle out between seat and back. If
this is not possible, with OWG still folded, push the top part and
the functional handle up over the chair back.
Finally, unfold OWG so that only one layer remains with the
functional handle up over the chair back. The grey velvet side
should be facing the user.
Position the user as normal in the chair.
Positioning
Use
The user has glided forwards in the wheelchair (Illustration 1).
The carer leans the user forward to alter the pressure points –
the user’s back must be free of the chair back. If the user has
poor balance, he/she can be supported using a positioning
wedge or pillow, Alternatively, a carer can support the user
from the front.
The carer behind the chair can support the user with one or
both hands on the user’s shoulders. The carer treads down
on the functional handle and the user glides slowly back into
position. This can be repeated if necessary (Illustration 2).
The carer can also stand in front of the user. By giving the user
a slight push, the user will glide back in the chair. A “thigh walk”
technique can also be used (Illustrations 3 and 4).
If there is no free space between the chair seat and the chair
back, position OWG up over the chair back (Illustration 3).
To glide the user forwards, the user is first leant forwards
(as above). The carer behind the chair grasps the functional
handles along the edge of the cushion and leans back, while
the user glides slowly back into the original position.
The carer can also use the “thigh walk” technique or help the
user move backwards, standing in front of the user.
Alternatively, the functional handle can be hung up on the
slingbar. This method is the best way in which to reposition the
user with minimum strain on the carers. The carer raises the
hoist and pushes the user gently backwards.
NB: Be aware of the user’s centre of balance so that the user
does not roll forward and out of the chair.
Remember to apply the brake to lock the wheelchair before
using OWG.
There is no need to remove OWG after use.
