When the occupant is seated in the chair, the footrest plates may be pushed
back down to locate the feet at the required position. At this point it may be
necessary to set the footrest height and position.
GETTING OUT OCCUPANT STANDING FORWARDS.
Making sure that the power to the motors is off; flip up the foot support plates
to open the standing space in front of the chair. Footrests may be detached
or swivelled away inwards or outwards for easier access.
The occupant should place a hand on each armrest, bend slightly forward
and place both feet well back and firmly on the ground, and then push
upwards to a standing position to assist the carer.
OCCUPPANT SIDE TRANSFER
The occupant normally controls this operation, with the carer available for
assistance as required. Side transfer should not be attempted on slopes, or on
slippery surfaces. If there is a gap between the two seat surfaces, it may help
to slide along a smooth transfer board.
When the wheelchair armrest is swivelled back, it will allow sideways entry
to the chair and vice versa, from another chair or car seat. Some physically
active independent users with upper body and arm strength may develop
skill to carry out this manoeuvre without help.
We advise for safety reasons that an attendant should be available, to
keep the next intended seating surface in the required location, near to the
wheelchair, or to provide assistance if this becomes necessary during transfer.
This is important for amputees who side transfer.
Making sure the chair is stable and the motor control is set to ‘OFF’, the
occupant should use arm strength to shift position. The effort and movement
for side transfer needs good coordination and balance. When transferring in
and out of the car an additional lever point such as a handle above the car
access door is useful.
Side transfer is an instant operation when done by the skilled occupant.
Transfer is easier when footrest assemblies are swung back out of the way, or
removed so as not to interfere with the legs. Where possible feet should be
firmly on the ground. The safest way to side transfer is to bend slightly forward
when shifting the balance position.
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