SAFETY / HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
When learning a new assistance technique, have
an experienced assistant help you before
attempting it alone.
“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires
the close attention of the wheelchair user as well
as the assistant.
This manual points out the most common
procedures and techniques involved in the safe
operation and maintenance of the wheelchair.
TILTING
WARNING
DO NOT tilt the wheelchair without assistance.
It is important to practice and master these safe
techniques until you are comfortable in
maneuvering around the frequently encountered
architectural barriers.
When tilting the wheelchair, an assistant should
grasp the back of the wheelchair on a non-
removable (non-detachable) part. Inform the
wheelchair occupant before tilting the wheelchair
and remind him/her to lean back. Be sure the
occupant’s feet and hands are clear of all wheels.
Use this information only as a “basic” guide. The
techniques that are discussed on the following
pages have been used successfully.
Individual wheelchair users often develop skills
to deal with daily living activities that may differ
from those described in this manual.
TILTING - KERBS
After mastering the techniques of tilting the
wheelchair, use this procedure to tackle kerbs,
short stairs, etc.
Invacare recognizes and encourages each
individual to try what works best for him/her in
overcoming architectural obstacles that they may
encounter. Techniques in this manual are a
starting point for the new wheelchair user and
assistant, with “safety” as the most important
consideration for all.
METHOD 1 - WHEELCHAIR WITH STEP
TUBES
Apply a continuous downward motion until the
balance point is achieved and the front casters
clear the kerb.
STABILITY AND BALANCE
At this point, the assistant will feel a difference
in the weight distribution.
To assure stability and proper operation of your
wheelchair, you must at all times wear your seat
restraint and maintain proper balance. Your
wheelchair has been designed to remain upright
and stable during normal daily activities as long
as you do not move beyond the centre of gravity.
Roll the wheelchair forward and slowly lower the
wheelchair in one continuous movement onto
the sidewalk. Do not let the wheelchair drop the
last few inches to the ground. This could result
in injury to the occupant. Push the wheelchair
forward until the rear wheels roll up and over the
curb.
Do not lean forward out of the wheelchair any
further than the length of the armrests. Make
sure the casters are pointing in the forward
position whenever you lean forward. This can be
achieved by advancing the wheelchair and then
reversing it in a straight line.
COPING WITH EVERYDAY OBSTACLES
Coping with the irritation of everyday obstacles
can be alleviated somewhat by learning how to
manage your wheelchair. Keep in mind your
centre of gravity to maintain stability and
balance.
METHOD 1 - WHEELCHAIR WITH STEP TUBES
METHOD 2 - WHEELCHAIRS WITHOUT
STEP
TUBES
A NOTE TO WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANTS
Unless the first assistant has exceptional upper
body strength, it is recommended that method 2
use two (2) assistants.
When assistance to the wheelchair user is
required, remember to use good body
mechanics. Keep your back straight and bend
your knees whenever tilting the wheelchair or
traversing kerbs, or other impediments.
The second assistant should be positioned at the
front of the wheelchair lifting upward on a non-
removable (non-detachable) part of the
wheelchair frame when lifting the wheelchair and
stabilizing the wheelchair when the wheelchair is
being lowered to the ground.
Also, be aware of any removable (detachable)
parts. These must never be used for hand-held
or lifting supports, as they may be inadvertently
released, resulting in possible injury to the user
and/or assistant(s).
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