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11 Driving technique, manoeuvring
11:6 Manoeuvring, transferring into/out of the wheelchair
The technique for transferring a
user should be practised with trained
personnel. All that is provided here is
some important advice to consider in
conjunction with transferring a user
into or out of the wheelchair.
With or without a care giver, sideways.
Before transferring:
-
Increase the overall support
base of the wheelchair by
reversing for about 10 cm,
thereby ensuring the castor
wheels swing forwards.
The wheelchair should be
positioned as close to the place
where the transfer is going to
take place as possible.
-
Lock the brakes, remove or
swing up armrest/sideguard
and legrest on the side where
the transfer is to take place.
With or without a care giver, from the
front.
Before transferring:
-
Increase the overall support
base of the wheelchair by
reversing for about 10 cm,
thereby ensuring the castor
wheels swing forwards.
The wheelchair should be
positioned close to where
the transfer is to take place.
-
Apply the brakes, remove the
armrest/side guard and swing
the legrest in under the seat
one the side you intend to
move across.
Never stand on the footrests
as you may tip the chair!
(!)
While lifting the care givers
should remember to use the
power of their legs and keep
their backs as straight as
possible.
