Greencare DB1J 13, User Manual

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PREPARING THE WHEELCHAIR FOR USE
Setting up Backrests
Backrests are built according to occupant
measurements and assessed requirements.
They may include specially reinforced
components for heavy occupants or those
who create excessive pressure.
Backrests may be foldable, with a hinged
push-handle which automatically locks into
place when the back is lifted to the occupant
supporting position. A folding back will allow
storage in a car boot or small space.
When a chair is specified as needing specific
storage requirements, this should be
checked at the handover to ensure
equipment compatibility. Rigid backrests are
suitable when the wheelchair is not stored in
a small space.
If the wheelchair is to be used in transport,
accessibility to this should be checked at
assessment and handover to ensure
equipment compatibility. Backrests can be
supplied to meet occupant requirements with
a range of different support angles. When an
adjustable reclining backrest is fitted, it
allows the carer to set the backrest to a
required occupant support position.
On reclining back chairs the backrest angle is
cable controlled by operating levers on the
push handles. The support height of reclining
backrests will normally have an extension to
the level of the occupants head, according to
assessed need.
Backrest extensions are integrated into the
backrest build and located on special upper
frame tubes. They are supplied with
adjustable tension straps and separate
cushioning of similar construction to the main
back support upholstery.
When the occupant is reclined, weight distribution
reduces the rearward stability of the wheelchair.
As a build standard, rear wheels will be set in the
most stable position, usually with anti-tip
stabilisers. With the backrest reclined,
manoeuvrability is more difficult for the carer.
A situation in which frequent removal of the head
support extension is required is in vehicle
transportation. In this application an extended
head support may be inconvenient for other
aspects of normal use, because it restricts
visibility and communication for general use. In
such cases the backrest extension will be
removable, with a separate option of individual
push handles, which can be located at the
required pushing height by adjustable fixings. The
separate backrest components should be safely
stored when not in use.
These illustrations show chairs with and without a
backrest extension.
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