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Issue_G_January_2013 6 Dash Lite
4.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
INTRODUCTION
The type of wheelchair, and attachment features,
provided will be different according to individual
user requirements, and clinical assessment of
need. In many cases the result will be a
compromise solution.
Some modular wheelchairs can be set up or
finely adjusted to suit user needs. Users should
contact their approved distributor if they are
having problem in using their wheelchair, a
simple adjustment or alternative build
configuration may help to resolve the problem.
Remploy manual wheelchairs can be divided into
two broad categories.
•
Attendant Propelled
•
Occupant Propelled
This general information section covers safety
issues of wheelchair use covering all of these.
Please read carefully together with all other
information provided, covering the specific model
supplied, which will give particular details of the
wheelchair features and construction, methods of
operation and correct setting methods.
4.2
GETTING IN AND OUT OF A WHEELCHAIR
FACING FORWARDS
For maximum safety, these operations should be
carried out with the help of an attendant. The
occupant should always try to assist the
attendant wherever possible to share the total
effort.
Carers should not attempt to lift without help.
If this is not possible a hoist may be required.
Getting into the wheelchair.
Make sure that the brakes are on, flip up the
footplates, taking care that the heel support
straps (if fitted) are not jammed against the
footrest support frame. On some models,
footrests may be detached or swung away for
easier access.
Note that when footrests are detached, the
mounting swivels remain exposed and care
should be taken to avoid the occupant
catching these accidentally.
The occupant may be able to help by pushing on
the armrests to provide support whilst being
lowered into the seat. Finally, push the footplates
down, and locate the occupant’s feet on them.
see fig 2.
Getting out of the wheelchair.
Make sure that the brakes are on
,
then flip up the
footrests or detach them. The occupant should place
a hand on each armrest, bend slightly forward and
place both feet well back.
4.3 SIDE TRANSFER
When the wheelchair armrest is removed, it will allow
sideways entry to the chair and vice versa, from
another chair or car seat.
See fig 3.
Physically active
Independent users with upper body and arm strength
Should eventually
develop skill to carry out
this manoeuvre without
help. However, it is
advisable that an
attendant should be
available if assistance
becomes necessary.
Make sure the brakes
are on, or that the
wheelchair is prevented
from moving, It is easier
to transfer when flip up
footrest assemblies are swung back out of the way,
or removed so as not to interfere with the legs. Feet
should be firmly on the ground and not on the
footrest. The safest way to transfer is to bend slightly
forward.
If there is a gap between the two seat surfaces, it
may help to slide along a smooth transfer board, or to
use some other lever point such as a car hand grip
for additional support whilst manoeuvring from one
seat to the other.
DO NOT ATTEMPT SIDE TRANSFER ON
SLIPPERY OR UNEVEN FLOORS
Fig 2
- Getting
in/out of the wheelchair