Filling the bath
Once you are sure the cushion is in the correct position water may be added to the bath. It is recommended that approximately
8 - 10 inches (20 - 25 cm) of water is added initially, however, this can be adjusted by the user according to individual needs
, and the size
and depth of the bath being used. The water should be of an even mix of hot and cold water.
Note: Temperatures in excess of 50°C (122°F) will distort
the cushion. Remember, if the water is too hot for you
it is probably too hot for the cushion.
Getting into the bath
The bather can enter the bath either by sitting on the edge of the bath
and sliding onto the cushion swinging the legs over and into the bath, or by stepping into the bath and sitting on the
cushion. You should be centrally placed within the coloured anti-slip seating area of the cushion, with your lower
back positioned against the lumbar support
*
(see diagram B). Sitting forwards or backwards of centre will cause an
uneven descent. Sitting centrally the bather is now ready to be lowered into the bath. Taking the hand control unit in
either hand, gently depress the down button (see diagram C). The cushion will gently deflate. Releasing the button at
any time will stop this action, to continue depress the button again maintaining contact until right at the bottom of
the bath. To aid stability a fixed grab rail should be used with the Bath-Buddy. If a grab rail is not available then RBF
Healthcare or your dealer can supply one as an accessory. Please see appendix A for guidance on positioning of the
grab rail. In addition the bather may also find it useful to rest one, or both hands on the sides of the bath to further
aid balance.
During the deflate cycle the lumbar support and seat area of the cushion will slowly fold in and around the user,
promoting a supported descent into the bath. The bather should always allow the front part of the cushion to fully
deflate before attempting to lie back. By stretching out the legs when the cushion is approximately
2
/
3
deflated, the air
in the front of the cushion will be forced out. Once this has been achieved, the bather can recline against the back
surface of the bath and bathe in the normal way. It is not recommended that the bather leave the coloured seating
area of the cushion while bathing.
During the assessment for the Bath-Buddy, special consideration should be taken when the potential user is a child or
a severely disabled or infirmed user. In these instances it may be necessary for the user to bath with supervision or
assistance from a carer. CONTINUED OVERLEAF
5
B
C
UK RBF Bath buddy instruction 16pp 21/9/07 09:07 Page 6
