112670 Rev. A
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R H Y T H M
V I .
L. CENTER OF BALANCE
WARNING
The point where this chair will tip forward, back, or to the side
depends on its center of balance and stability.
The Center Of Balance Is Affected By:
1. The seat height and seat angle.
2. A change in your body position, posture or weight distribu-
tion.
3. Using this chair on a ramp or slope.
4. The use of a back pack or other options, and the amount of
added weight.
5. Drive wheel positioning.
To Reduce The Risk Of A Fall Or Tip-Over:
Whenever a condition exists that may change the center of
balance, reduce speed, proceed cautiously, and when in
doubt, always have someone help you.
M.
TRANSFERS
WARNING
It is dangerous to transfer on your own. It requires good balance
and agility. Be aware that there is a point during every transfer
when the wheelchair seat is not below you. To prevent a fall:
1. Always turn off power before you transfer to or from your
chair. If you fail to do so you may touch the joystick and
cause your chair to move when you do not expect it.
2. Make sure motor locks are engaged. This keeps the chair
from moving when you transfer.
3. Work with your health care professional to learn safe methods.
•
Learn how to position your body and how to support
yourself during a transfer.
•
Have someone help you until you are sure you can do a
safe transfer on your own.
4. Move your chair as close as you can to the seat you are
transferring to. If possible, use a transfer board.
5. Rotate the front casters until they are as far forward as possible.
6. Be careful of the footrests. If you can, remove or swing them
out of the way.
•
Never stand on footrests when you transfer. Doing so
may damage them or cause your chair to tip.
•
Make sure your feet do not “hang up” or get caught in
the space between the footrests.
7. Make sure armrests do not interfere.
8. Transfer as far back onto the seat surface as you can. This will
reduce the risk that you will miss the seat or fall.
N.REACHING OR LEANING
WARNING
Reaching or leaning affects the center of balance of your chair. If
done improperly, a fall or tip-over is likely. When in doubt, ask for
help or use a device to extend your reach.
To Reduce the Risk of injury and/or Damage to the Chair:
1. Never reach or lean if you must shift your weight sideways or
rise up off the seat.
2. Never reach or lean if you must move forward in your seat
to do so. Always keep your buttocks in contact with the
backrest.
3. Never reach with both hands (you may not be able to catch
yourself to prevent a fall if you lose your balance).
4. Never try to pick up an object from the floor by reaching down
between your knees.
5. Never put pressure on the footrests while reaching.
6. Never reach or lean over the top of the seat back. This may
damage the backrest and cause you to fall.
IF YOU MUST REACH OR LEAN DO SO AT
YOUR OWN RISK.
Remember to:
1. Move your chair as close as you can to the object you wish
to reach.
2. Rotate the front casters until they are as far forward as possi-
ble. This makes the chair more stable.
Q-NOTE–
To do this: Move your chair past the object you want to
reach, then back up alongside it. Backing up will rotate the
casters forward.
3. Turn off all power to your chair. If you fail to do so, you may
touch the joystick and cause your chair to move when you
do not expect it.
O.DRESSING OR CHANGING CLOTHES
WARNING
Be aware that your weight will shift if you dress or change clothes
while seated in this chair. To make the chair more stable, rotate the
front casters until they are
forward
.
P. OBSTACLES
WARNING
Obstacles you may have to overcome in daily use include door
thresholds, lifts, ramps and hazards such as potholes and broken
pavement. These can damage your chair and may cause a fall, tip-
over or loss of control.
1. Be aware that thresholds are very dangerous. (Even a small
change in height may stop a caster wheel and cause your
chair to tip). You may need to:
•
Remove or cover threshold strips between rooms.
•
Install a ramp at entry or exit doors.
2. Keep your eyes moving when you ride; scan the area well
ahead of your chair.
3. Make sure the floor areas where you use this chair are level
and free of obstacles.
Q.DRIVING IN REVERSE
WARNING
Use extra care when you drive your chair in reverse. You may lose
control or fall if one of the rear wheels hits an object.
1. Operate your chair slowly and at an even speed.
2. Stop often and check to make sure your path is clear of
obstacles.
R. RAMPS, SLOPES & SIDEHILLS
WARNING
The center of balance of your chair changes when you are on a
slope.
Q-NOTE–
“Slope” includes a ramp or sidehill. Your chair is
less stable when it is at an angle. Never use this
chair on a slope unless your are sure it is safe.
When in doubt, have someone help you.