Invacare Spree XT, Owner'S Operator And Maintenance Manual

Page: 24 / 76

SECTION 1—SAFETY AND HANDLING
Spree XT
24
Part No 1118364
Reaching, Bending - Backward
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 1.3.
WARNING
DO NOT lean over the top of the back
upholstery. This will change your center
of gravity and may cause you to tip over.
Position wheelchair as close as possible to
the desired object. Position the casters so
that they are extended away from the drive
wheels to create the longest possible
wheelbase. Reach back only as far as your
arm will extend without changing your
sitting position.
FIGURE 1.3 Reaching, Bending - Backward
Tipping
WARNING
DO NOT tip the wheelchair without assistance.
When tipping the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp the back of the wheelchair on a
non ‐ removable (non ‐ detachable) part. Inform the wheelchair occupant before tipping the
wheelchair and remind him/her to lean back. Be sure the occupant’s feet and hands are
clear of all wheels and/or pinch points.
After mastering the techniques of tipping the wheelchair, use one of the following
methods to tackle curbs, short stairs, etc.
Tipping - Curbs: Method 1 - Wheelchair with Step Tubes
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 1.4.
Place foot on the step tube and begin to tilt the wheelchair toward you. Apply a
continuous downward motion until the balance point is achieved and the front casters
clear the curb. At this point, the assistant will feel a difference in the weight distribution.
WARNING
When lowering the front casters of the
wheelchair, DO NOT let the wheelchair
drop the last few inches to the ground.
This could result in injury to the
occupant and/or damage to the
wheelchair.
FIGURE 1.4 Tipping - Curbs: Method 1 -
Wheelchair with Step Tubes
Step Tube