Safety/Handling Of Seating Systems/Wheelchairs - Invacare MK5 EX Owner's Operator And Maintenance Manual

SECTION 1 GENERAL GUIDELINES
SAFETY/HANDLING OF SEATING SYSTEMS/
WHEELCHAIRS
“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires the close attention of the seating
system/wheelchair user as well as the assistant. This manual, as well as the owners
manual provided with the wheelchair, points out the most common procedures and
techniques involved in the safe operation and maintenance of the seating system/wheel-
chair. It is important to practice and master these safe techniques until you are comfort-
able 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 seating system/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 architec-
tural 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 new seating system/wheelchair users and assistants with “safety” as the most impor-
tant consideration for all.
STABILITY AND BALANCE
WARNING
Always wear your seat positioning strap.
To assure stability and proper operation of your seating system/wheelchair, you must at
all times maintain proper balance. Your seating system/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.
DO NOT lean forward out of the seating system/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 stabil-
ity and balance.
A NOTE TO WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANTS
When assistance to the seating system/wheelchair user is required, remember to use
good body mechanics. Keep your back straight and bend your knees.
Also, be aware of any detachable parts. These must NEVER be used to move the wheel-
chair or 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.
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