© Ferno / 234-3801-00 / August 2021
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Using the Chair
6.6 Transporting the Patient Down Stairs
Ferno recommends that the two operators face each other when
transporting a patient on stairs and that a third trained person “spot” for
the foot-end operator. In some cases, the foot-end operator may be able
to descend the stairs facing forward, with his back to the patient. Follow
your local protocols for using chairs.
Ferno recommends you visualize a “landing zone” at the top or bottom
of the stairway. The landing zone should provide enough clear, safe
space for the chair to be set on all four wheels, away from the edge of
the stairway. In a narrow stairway, you may need to retract the handles
between each flight of stairs.
If the operators tire or need to attend the patient while on stairs, see
“Pausing On the Stairs” on page 29.
USING THE CARRY CHAIR TO DESCEND STAIRS
1.
Head-End Operator:
Roll the chair to the stairs and engage the
wheel locks (if equipped).
2.
Foot-End Operator:
Extend the foot-end lift handles to the
desired stop point. Verify that both handles are locked and
maintain your grasp.
3.
Spotter:
Stand below the foot-end operator with a hand on the
operator’s back to help steady and guide him/her throughout the
descent.
4.
Head-End Operator:
Raise the lift bar to the desired position and
verify that it is locked. Or, use the rear lift handles, if your chair has
rear lift handles.
5.
Head-End Operator:
Disengage the wheel locks and tilt the chair
back.
6.
Operators and Spotter:
Operators work together to lift the chair
and carry it down the stairs. The spotter keeps a hand on the foot-
end operator’s back and provides verbal guidance.
7.
Operators:
At the bottom of the stairs, the operators set the chair
on the floor and retract the lift handles.
8.
Head-End Operator:
Adjust the lift bar to a comfortable height
before rolling the chair.
WARNING
Track Chair Models: Using the chair with an unlocked
track system can cause injury. Verify that the track system
is locked before transporting the patient.
NOTICE
When the track system is in use, move the chair only in a
straight line. Do not twist or turn the chair while using the
track system as the belts may become dislodged from the
track. Set the chair on its wheels between stairways, to turn
corners, or to change direction.
