CareFlex HydroCare, User Instructions

UI HydroCare. iss1 06/11

If the client can raise to standing themselves or with 

minimal assistance, the seat height should be set so that 

the client’s feet rest 

fl

 at on the 

fl

 oor and the underside 

of their thighs are in contact with the full length of the 

seat cushion. If the seat height is too high, the client’s 

heels will be lifted off the 

fl

 oor and pressure will build 

up along the underside of their thighs. If the seat is 

too low, their knees will be raised and there will be no 

contact between the back of their thighs and the seat 

cushion. This will increase the pressure on their bottom 

and sacrum and could cause discomfort at the hips.

If the client is less ambulant and is being regularly 

portered then seat height can be set relative to the 

sliding footplate. Again, ensuring the foot is 

fl

 at  and 

fully supported is important.

Seat width affects side-to-side pelvic stability. This is 

important as the spine should line up centrally with the 

pelvis. If the pelvis is free to move to one side then the 

client’s spine will usually lean in the opposite direction. 

As gravity pulls the client over, the spine will begin to 

curve to compensate as the client tries to keep their 

head level. The client will take on a characteristic ‘S’ 

shaped spine or scoliosis. The more upright the user’s 

trunk is, the more critical pelvic stability becomes. It is, 

therefore, important to use a chair with the correct seat 

width in order to position the pelvis properly.

Seat width should always allow for a little bit of 

movement as the client’s body weight and posture 

naturally shifts throughout the day. If the client is held 

in a rigid position they will quickly tire and experience 

discomfort.

Seat height and width will have been measured at 

assessment and the chair set up for the client prior 

to delivery.

1. Seat Height and Width

3

Correct seat width; client 

sits ‘midline’.

Seat Too Wide; client tends 

to lean to one side.

Seat Too Low;

Increase in pressure on the 

buttocks and lower back.

Seat Too High;

Increase in pressure 

beneath thighs.