K I R T O N - H E A L T H C A R E . C O . U K
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D I R E C T H E A L T H C A R E G R O U P. C O M
F L O R I E N E L I T E
U S E R M A N U A L
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6.4. Tilt-in-Space
What is Tilt-in-Space?
Tilt-in-space is a pivoting system that provides a reclined, resting position enabling the occupant
of the chair to be tilted forward or backwards whilst maintaining posture and pelvic stability.
By keeping the angle between the chair seat and the back at around 110°, the occupant will
not slide forwards into an uncomfortable slumped position. Tilting the chair redistributes the
occupant’s weight over a larger contact surface area, making a simple yet effective way to
combat the build-up of pressure.
Operating the Tilt-in-Space
It is recommended that the tilt-in-space angle is changed at regular intervals to redistribute
pressure and minimise the risk of the occupant developing pressure hotspots which could
lead to pressure injuries.
The tilt-in-space operating lever is located on the right hand side of the push handle at the rear of
the chair.
• Squeeze the lever towards the push handle to release the tilt lock. Apply firm downward
pressure with both hands on the push handle to tilt the chair backwards, alternatively lift the
push handle upwards to raise the chair to an upright position.
• At any point during the upward or downward tilt motion the lever can be released and the chair
will lock in the selected position.
• The chair can achieve a forward tilt position to facilitate a standing transfer from the chair.
Ensure that the occupant is assisted during this transfer to avoid falls.
• It is always advisable to adjust the positioning of the legrest once the tilt-in-space positioning
has been chosen, to ensure a correct and comfortable posture.
CAUTION
It is recommended to use a lap belt or
pelvic positioner (optional accessories)
with occupants with poor postural
sitting ability.
CAUTION
Ensure any tray used with
the chair is removed before
tilting the chair; otherwise the
contents of the tray could spill
onto the user.
WARNING
Never leave an occupant with poor
postural sitting ability in a fully upright
position without supervision as they may
tip or slide forward into an inappropriate
position or out of the chair completely.
WARNING
Ensure the occupant’s hands are clear
from the back of the chair whilst the
chair is being tilted, to avoid any risk of
pinching within the tilt mechanism.
WARNING
Ensure nothing is present to obstruct
the free movement of the chair (e.g.
children, pets or solid objects) before
operating the tilt-in-space.
6.5. Back Recline
The backrest of the chair can be reclined independently from the tilt-in-space motion in order to provide comfort and facilitate
appropriate positioning for the occupant.
If you are unsure about the positioning of the occupant in the Florien Elite chair, please seek advice and input from a qualified
Occupational Therapist, healthcare professional and/or Kirton representative/retailer before adjusting.
The back recline lever has a safety spigot incorporated to avoid well-meaning yet unspecified adjustment of the back angle.
This safety spigot once locked in place prevents the back recline lever from operating.
Operating the Back Recline
The back recline operating lever is located on the left hand side of the push handle at the rear of the chair.
• To adjust the back recline position, untwist the safety spigot on the lever on the left hand side of the
push handle, labelled “
recline
” so the lever can be squeezed.
• Gently squeeze the lever and apply firm downward pressure with both hands on the push handle to
recline the chair backwards, alternatively lift the push handle upwards to raise the back to an upright
position.
• At any point during the upward or downward recline motion the lever can be released and the chair
will lock in the selected position.
• It is important that an occupant’s recline position is in line with postural capabilities. Once the correct
seat and back recline angle has been established for the occupant it can be locked in place by
twisting the spigot on the recline lever so it can no longer be squeezed.
6.6. Elevating and Articulating Legrests
The Florien Elite has the option of either an Elevating Legrest or an Articulating Legrest.
The
Elevating Legrest
can assist with the lymphatic and blood circulation. Lifting and straightening
the knees has the effect of allowing the blood to circulate more freely, reducing the effort required by
the heart and arterial systems. Raising the legs can also help alleviate leg oedema, a build-up of fluid
in the legs.
The Elevating Legrest motion is -10° negative retraction to 70° elevation from a neutral down
position.
The
Articulating Legrest
extends forward as it elevates and is ideal for chairs with footrests as
it maintains the positioning of the footrest and comfort for the user, in both the raised or lowered
positions.
The range of motion is -10° negative retraction to 75° elevation from a neutral down position.
Operating the Legrest
Both the Elevating and Articulating Legrests raise or lower utilising the same operating system.
Locate the legrest release lever at the bottom of the right hand arm, towards the front castor
(when viewed from the rear)
The legrest can be elevated or retracted by pulling the lever with the left hand whilst moving
the legrest with the right hand and then releasing the lever to lock the legrest in position.
This enables the carer to retain some eye contact with the occupant.
A negative legrest angle can be achieved with the legrest to accommodate occupants with fixed
contractures as well as to aid exiting the chair.
Lower the legrest before returning the chair to its fully upright position to allow the user to stand
up from the chair with ease.
IMPORTANT
Use the back recline in conjunction with tilt-in-space
to avoid the occupant slumping or sliding into an
uncomfortable and inappropriate position.
WARNING
Ensure nothing is present to obstruct the free movement of
the chair (e.g. children, pets or solid objects) before operating
the back recline.
