Section 2-Safe Handling; Stability And Balance - Invacare A4 Owner's Manual

SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING
SECTION 2—SAFE HANDLING
"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. It is important to practice and master these safe techniques until you are comfortable in maneuvering around
the frequently encountered architectural barriers.
Use this information only as a "basic" guide. The techniques that are discussed on the following pages have been used
successfully by many.
Individual wheelchair users often develop skills to deal with daily living activities that may differ from those described in
this manual. Invacare recognizes and encourages each individual to try what works best for him/her in overcoming
architectural obstacles that they may encounter, however, ALL WARNINGS and CAUTIONS given in this manual MUST
be followed. Techniques in this manual are a starting point for the new wheelchair user and assistant with "safety" as the
most important consideration for all.

Stability and Balance

ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. Inasmuch as the seat positioning strap is an option on
this wheelchair (you may order with or without the seat positioning strap), Invacare Top End
strongly recommends ordering the seat positioning strap as an additional safeguard for the
wheelchair user. The seat positioning strap is a positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as
a safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear
appear, seat positioning strap MUST be replaced IMMEDIATELY.
Anti-tippers MUST be attached at all times. Inasmuch as the anti-tippers are an option on this
wheelchair (you may order with or without the anti-tippers), Invacare strongly recommends
ordering the anti-tippers as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user.
To assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you MUST at all times 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 stability will allow. Make sure 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.
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick them up from
the floor by reaching down between your knees.
The position of the footrest, camber tube, back angle, the tautness of the back upholstery as well
as the user's condition are directly related to the wheelchair's stability. Any change to one or any
combination of the five may cause the wheelchair to decrease in stability. Use EXTREME caution
when using a new seating position. The addition of anti-tippers may be required.
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.1 on page 13.
Many activities require the wheelchair owner to reach, bend and transfer in and out of the wheelchair. These movements
will cause a change to the normal balance, the center of gravity, and the weight distribution of the wheelchair.
To determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice bending, reaching and transferring activities in several
combinations in the presence of a qualified health‐care professional before attempting active use of wheelchair.
A4 Owner's Manual
WARNING
WARNING
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Part No 1110545