12022-12023-INS-LAB-RevD18 10
FOR ATTENDANT: TILTING
Tilting the Rehab Shower Commode backward is
generally required to negotiate such obstacles as
ramps, inclines, thresholds, stairs and door sills. Tilting
should only be performed by an attendant. To tilt the
Rehab Shower Commode backward:
1. Grasp the push handles securely and ensure that
the hand grips are firmly attached.
2. Ensure that the user's feet are situated flat on the
footplates and that arms, hands and fingers are clear
of the wheels and any other components.
3. Advise the user, before tilting the Rehab Shower
Commode backward, what you intend to do and
remind the user to lean back.
4. Place one foot on the tipping lever and apply
downward force until the Rehab Shower Commode
is tilted back enough to overcome the obstacle.
5. Lower the front end slowly.
RAMPS AND INCLINES
WARNING: During descent, the footplates' lowest point
should be no closer to the ground than 2
1/2
inches to
permit proper clearance.
WARNING: Do not attempt any incline or decline of more than 6 degrees (10% grade, or one foot
of rise or fall per ten feet of ramp length).
WARNING: Do not use wheel locks to slow your descent. Attempting to use wheel locks is likely
to result in accidental locking that could cause the Rehab Shower Commode to stop abruptly,
suddenly pitch forward, or tip sideways.
WARNING: Avoid changing direction while descending a ramp or incline, as this could cause
instability.
Ramps and inclines should only be negotiated with the assistance of an attendant. To
attendant: Practice with a healthcare professional first before attempting ramps or inclines.
Always inspect the ramp for hazards such as holes, slippery or uneven surfaces, etc. before
starting up or down. If you can not see the entire ramp, ask someone to inspect it for you.
THRESHOLDS AND STEPS
WARNING: Never attempt to negotiate thresholds or steps in your Rehab Shower Commode
without the assistance of an attendant.
WARNING: Never attempt to negotiate stairs or escalators in your Rehab Shower Commode
under any circumstances.
Thresholds, steps and stairways are dangerous obstacles that confront the Rehab Shower
Commode user. When you encounter thresholds, find a way around, or use the ramps now
available in most locations. If you encounter stairs or escalators and there is no ramp available,
avoid the stairs or escalators by utilizing the disabled designated elevators now required in
most locations.
Thresholds and steps should only be negotiated with the assistance of an attendant. The
following are suggestions only for threshold negotiation. It is important for you to develop your
own safe technique that is best suited to your abilities.
