Coping With Everyday Obstacles; A Note To Wheelchair Assistants; Tipping; Tipping - Curbs - Invacare Patriot Owner's Operator And Maintenance Manual

SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
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 center of gravity.
Virtually all activities which involve movement in the wheelchair have an effect on the
center of gravity. Invacare recommends using seat positioning straps for additional safety
while involved in activities that shift your weight.
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 center of gravity to maintain stability
and balance.

A NOTE TO WHEELCHAIR 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 curbs, or other impediments.
Also, be aware of detachable parts such as arms or legrests. These must NEVER be used
to move the wheelchair or as lifting supports, as they may be inadvertently released,
resulting in possible injury to the user and/or assistant(s).
When learning a new assistance technique, have an experienced assistant help you before
attempting it alone.

TIPPING

WARNING
DO NOT tip the wheelchair without assistance.
When tipping the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp the back of the wheelchair on a
non-removable (non-detachable) part. Inform the wheelchair occupant before tipping the
wheelchair and remind him/her to lean back. Be sure the occupant's feet and hands are
clear of all wheels.

TIPPING - CURBS

After mastering the techniques of tipping the wheelchair, use this procedure to tackle
curbs, short stairs, etc.
METHOD 1 - WHEELCHAIR WITH STEP TUBES
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.1.
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Part No 1088909 Patriot™