ARJO SARA PLUS Operating and Product Care Instructions Issue 2 Oct 2006

© ARJO ARJO products are patented or patent pending. Patent information is available by contacting ARJO. The policy of Arjo is one of continuous development and we therefore reserve the right to make technical alterations without notice. The content of this publication may not be copied either whole or in part without the consent of ARJO. This product has been manufactured for ARJO by : Medibo Medical Products N.V. Heikant 5 B-3930 Hamont-Achel Belgium ‘Sara Plus’ and ‘ARJO’ are registered trademarks of GETINGE AB. The SARA PLUS is produced in Belgium by MEDIBO MEDICAL PRODUCTS for GETINGE AB and sold under the ARJO brand.

2

Contents

SECTION Foreword... Safety Instructions ... Intended Use... Product description/function ... Parts referred to in this manual... Control Handset... Dual Control panel ... Emergency stop button (red) ... Reset button (green) ... Automatic cutout ... Automatic stop function ... System failure lower override ... Battery discharge indicator... Hour meter... Chassis castor Brakes ... Straight line steering function (option)... Arc-Rest... Foot support... Proactive pad ... Lower leg straps ... Adjustable width chassis legs... Commode Seat (accessory) ... Using your Sara Plus... Using your Sara Plus for toileting and transport... Standing sling ... Transfer and walking sling ... Using the sling for transfer ... Using the sling for walking practice ... Scale (if fitted)... Lifter Battery charging ... Warnings for charging ... General safety Practices for Batteries ... Care of your Sara Plus... General lifter care ... Environmental advice... Periodic Testing ... Cleaning and disinfecting the toilet commode chair and frame (if fitted)... Servicing advice ... Labels ... Technical Specification ... Lifter Dimensions...

Page No. 4 5 5 6-10 6 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 9 9 9 9 10 10 11-23 11 12 14 14 17 20-23 24-25 24 24 26-28 26 27 27 27 28 29 30-31 31

3

Foreword

Thank you for purchasing ARJO equipment

seal kits, seat inserts, mattresses, safety belts, padded covers, straps and cords is dependent upon the care and usage of the equipment concerned. Consumables must be maintained in accordance with published “Operating and Product Care Instructions” and the “Preventive Maintenance Schedule”.

Your Sara Plus is part of a series of quality products designed especially for hospitals, nursing homes and other health care uses. We are dedicated to serving your needs and providing the best products available along with training that will bring your staff maximum benefit from every ARJO product.

All references to the patient in these instructions refer to the person being lifted, and reference to the attendant refer to the person who operates the lifter.

Please contact us if you have any questions about the operation or maintenance of your ARJO equipment.

References to left and right of the lifter in these instructions are as viewed from the rear of the Sara Plus, i.e. viewed from the dual control panel (see Fig. 1)

The touch panel label on the dual control panel displays several instruction symbols. The letter (i) shown on the open book icon indicates ‘information’, and is an instruction to always read the operating instructions before use. (See fig 1).

Lifting operations in these instructions are described as if lifting a patient from a chair, the same operations can be performed effectively when lifting a patient from a wheelchair or sitting position on a bed, although a second attendant should support the patient if the patient lacks sitting balance.

The expected operational life of your ARJO lifter is 10 (ten) years from the date of manufacture, providing the following conditions are adhered to:-

All operations in these instructions are described as if the attendant were using the control handset. Each operation described can be controlled using the control handset and/or the dual switch panel, situated at the rear of the mast.

Conditions • The unit is cared for and serviced in accordance with recommended, published “Operating and Product Care Instructions” and the “Preventive Maintenance Schedule”. • The unit is maintained to the minimum requirements as published in the “Preventive Maintenance Schedule”. • The servicing and product care, in accordance with ARJO requirements, must begin on first use of the unit by the customer. • The equipment is used for its intended purpose only and is operated within the published limitations. • Only ARJO designated spare parts should be used.

The Sara Plus is manufactured to a very high standard, and primarily designed to assist patients when standing and toileting, for use as a short distance patient transfer aid, and for standing and walking practice. When used as a standing aid the Sara Plus is extremely useful for quick easy transfers from one sitting position to another, and to elevate a patient for toileting, repositioning, changing of incontinence pads or wound dressings, standing practice etc. it is not intended for long periods of suspension or transportation. Some information contained in these instructions may become outdated, due to improvements made to this product in the future. If you have any questions regarding these instructions or your lifter, please contact ARJO or their approved distributor.

Consumables The expected operational life for fabric slings and fabric stretchers is approximately 2 years from date of purchase. This life expectancy only applies if the slings and stretchers have been cleaned, maintained and inspected in accordance with the “ARJO Sling Information” documents, the “Operating and Product Care Instructions” and the “Preventive Maintenance Schedule”. The expected life for other consumable products, such as batteries, fuses, lamps, gel cushions, filters,

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Safety Instructions

Symbols used adjacent to the text in these instructions:-

INTENDED USE Sara Plus is a standing and raising aid for short transfers e.g. raising from bed and transfer to wheelchair, or from wheelchair to toilet. Sara Plus is also suitable for walking training when the footboard and kneepad are removed.

Warning: Means:- failure to understand and obey this warning may result in injury to you or to others. Caution: Means:- failure to follow these instructions may cause damage to all or parts of the system or equipment. •

Sara Plus is intended to be used in hospitals, nursing homes or other health care facilities for the different categories of residents/patients Category C, where the resident/patient "Sits in a wheelchair "Is able to partially bear weight on at least one leg "Has some trunk stability "Is dependent on the caregiver in most situations "Need mobility-maintaining standing exercises

Note: Means:- this is important information for the correct use of this system or equipment.

This product has been designed and manufactured to provide you with trouble free use, however, this product does contain components that with regular use are subject to wear.

Or,Category D, where the resident/patient "Sits in a wheelchair "Is dependent on the caregiver in most situations "SARA Plus is the only standing and raising aid where a resident/patient such as Category D, can safely be raisied and transferred. The unique support of the EPS (Extra Postural Support) /BOS sling makes it feasible.

Warning: SOME OF THESE PARTS ARE SAFETY CRITICAL TO THE OPERATION OF THE LIFTER AND WILL NEED EXAMINING AND SERVICING ON A REGULAR BASIS AND MUST BE REPLACED WHEN NECESSARY. See also “Care of your Sara Plus” section.

Sara Plus shall always be handled by a trained caregiver and in accordance with the instructions outlined in these Operating and Product Care Instructions.

Warning: IMPORTANT: When using the transfer and walking sling for the transfer operation the maximum lifting capacity is 140Kg (308lbs). When using the same sling for walking practice the maximum lifting capacity is 190Kg (420lbs). Do not exceed these weight limits.

Sara Plus is intended to be used with specifically designed ARJO slings

Lifting operations in these instructions are described as if lifting a patient from a chair, the same operations can be performed effectively when lifting a patient from a sitting position on a bed, although a second attendant should support the patient if the patient lacks sitting balance.

Warning: It is advisable to familiarise yourself and understand the operation of the various controls and features of the Sara Plus as described in “Product Description/Function” section in this manual and ensure that any action or check specified is carried out before commencing to lift a patient.

Caution: Although manufactured to a high standard the Sara Plus and accessories should not be left for extended periods in humid or wet areas. Do not under any circumstances spray the Sara Plus or accessories (excluding slings) with water e.g. under the shower.

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Product Description/Function

P1331a/2, P1431a, P1224, P1381c

Parts referred to in this manual

12 24

22

21

1

13

14

11 10 2 23 9

20

19

18 17 8

7

6

4

3

16 15

5

Fig. 1

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.

Manoeuvring handle Battery pack Braked castors (rear) Chassis legs Front castors (unbraked) Foot support (removeable) Commode pan (optional) Commode seat and frame (optional) Proactive Pad™ (Adjustable) Sling attachment cords Arc-Rest™ (Supportive arm rests with handgrips) Detail view of cord locking cleats dual control panel Control handset System failure lower override knob

16. Label - System failure lower override identification 17. Handset cable connection 18. Battery discharge indicator 19. Reset button (green) 20. Emergency stop button (red) 21. Label - Read operating instructions before use 22. Label - Sling size guide 23. Hour meter 24. Scale display panel (if fitted)

6

Product Description/Function

Controls and Features

Unpack the battery pack supplied, and fully charge it as described in “Battery Charging section”.

‘Raise’ button

‘Lower’ button

P1396a

Control handset:- Is a semi-remote control unit attached to the lifter by an extending cable. The handset controls lift and lower and chassis leg opening/closing. Direction arrows adjacent to the buttons indicate each function. (See Fig. 2). If pressure is released from any button during use, powered movement will stop immediately.

When the battery pack is charged, disconnect the mains power, then remove the pack from the charger and insert it fully into the Sara Plus battery position, located at the left hand side of the lifter. Locate the recess in the bottom of the battery with the protrusion at the bottom of the battery position then pivot the battery into position until the retaining catch operates. Electrical connection is made automatically. Ensure that the green reset button situated on the back of the lifter cover is pressed in. (see inset to Fig. 1). Check that the system failure lower override knob is turned fully clockwise and finger tight, (see Fig. 1). Ensure that both sling types are available for the types of lift likely to be encountered when using the ARJO Sara Plus.

‘Chassis legs open’ button

‘Chassis legs close’ button

Two types of sling can be used with the Sara Plus. Standing Sling – a single loop, used for supporting patients at the toilet, and to aid in the standing process. The sling has a ‘fleece’ cover for added comfort, which can be easily removed for cleaning.

Fig. 2

Dual control panel:- offers the same controls as the handset and is conveniently positioned on the top of the main body of the lifter (See Fig. 3). P1431b

Transfer and Walking Sling – A loop sling with back, buttock and leg support, used for easy and comfortable transporting of patients over short distances without the need for the detachable seat frame. By using different attachment straps the same sling can be used for supporting patients during the training procedure of standing, stepping and walking under the supervision of trained nursing staff. The sling has variable adjustment. Note: The slings have colour coded connection loops for size identification, as follows:Red - Small (S) Yellow - Medium (M) Green - Large (L) Blue - Extra Large (XL) A circular label is fitted to the central lifting tube for quick colour to size reference. (see fig 1)

Fig. 3

Emergency stop button (red):- (see fig 1) If, in an emergency, you have to immediately stop any powered movement, (other than by releasing pressure on the button either on the handset or dual control panel), press the “emergency stop button situated on the back of the cover below the dual control panel. (See Fig. 1).This function can also be utilised to ensure that no powered operation is accidentally used when either transporting the lifter, or leaving the lifter in store or unattended.

7

Product Description/Function

P1332c

Once the emergency stop button has been operated, the green reset button will have to be re-engaged by pressing it in, before any powered movement can be utilised. Reset button (green):- (see Fig. 1) Adjacent to the emergency stop button. It is used to reset the ‘power on’ condition, once the emergency stop button has been operated, also used to reset if the automatic overload fuse has operated (indicated by the reset button projecting outwards slightly). If the fuse has operated and once reset, operates again, withdraw the lifter from use and contact ARJO Service department or their appointed distributor.

Fig. 4

The lower override will operate whether the emergency stop button has been operated or not. The “automatic stop function” of the jib will still operate when using the lower override knob.

Automatic cut out:- (not an operator control but a function built into the lifter electronics):If the lifter is inadvertently overloaded (trying to lift a patient heavier than permitted), an automatic ‘cut out’ operates to prevent the lifter raising a load in excess of one and a half times the maximum rated load; this will stop the lift motion automatically.

When using the Sara Plus normally, always ensure the system failure lower override knob is always turned fully clockwise and finger tight. Battery Discharge Indicator:- is a small LED display which shows the charge condition of the lifter battery. (See Fig. 1 and also ‘Battery Charging Section’ for complete description).

If this occurs, when pressure is released from the lift button on the handset or dual control the electronics will reset and enable the patient to be lowered only, by pressing either lower button. Remove the patient from the lifter.

Hour Meter:- Is a small LCD display (See Fig. 1) which shows the total duration of powered operation (in hours). This is primarily intended as an aid to service engineers and to help the attendant calculate servicing intervals.

Automatic stop function:- Great care should be taken not to lower the patient support arms onto the patient or any other obstruction but if this should happen inadvertently the motor will continue to run but downward movement will be held by the obstruction. If this occurs release pressure from the ‘lower’ button immediately, operate the ‘raise’ button until clear, then remove the obstruction.

Chassis castor Brakes:- The chassis rear castors have brakes which can be foot operated if required, (see Fig. 5) for example, when leaving the patient unattended, or to keep the Sara Plus in position.

System failure lower override:- This can be used in the event of main control failure. In the unlikely event that the control handset or dual control panel fails to operate the lifter, with a patient still supported by the sling, provision for lowering has been made, using the “lower override knob”, situated on the right hand side of the main cover (see Fig. 4). A label situated above the switch is for quick and easy recognition (see Fig. 1) To operate the lower override, turn the knob anti clockwise half a turn, to cease lowering turn the knob clockwise until finger tight only (do not over tighten), only use this knob in the event of normal control failure do not use it for normal function lowering.

P1332e, f

Straight line steering function :- When using the Sara Plus for walking practice it may be considered useful to fix one of the castors to steer in a straight line. This has the effect of allowing the Sara Plus, without assistance to follow the intended straight line walked by the patient. The function is activated by flipping over the steering guide on the rear castor to hold it in position (see Fig. 5).

Straight line steering guide

Warning: Before operating the lower override to lower a patient, always ensure that a chair or suitable support is underneath ready to accept the patient. Fig. 5

8

Product Description/Function

Foot Support:- For positioning the patient’s feet when lifting and transporting, it can be removed if using the Sara Plus to lift a patient to their feet prior to them using a walking aid eg. “Zimmer” etc. To remove the foot support, raise the Proactive knee support to its highest position, (note: where installed, unclip one side of the “Velcro” tie strap from around the foot support cover and slide the cover up the knee support column). Position yourself between the chassis legs and grip both sides of the foot support, lift up the front half of the foot support until it just comes into contact with the foot support bracket (see fig. 6), whilst it is in this position pivot the rear of the foot support upwards until the foot support is horizontal. Pull the foot support towards yourself until it is clear of the support bracket. Store carefully for future use.

Proactive Pad™

Proactive Pad™ clamping screw knob

P1334c/2

legs move radially during the lifting procedure. To adjust, hold the Proactive Pad™ with one hand (see Fig. 7) and slacken the clamping screw knob with the other hand. When the correct height has been established re-tighten the knob.

Arc-Rest (with handgrips):- Integral Part of the Lifting mechanism of the lifter, the intuitive and supportive armrests allow patient participation and comfort during the lifting procedure. (See Fig. 1)

Fig. 7

It can be removed from its mount quickly, for walking practice, simply by lifting upwards, after the foot support has been removed.

Slide the foot support cover back down into position and secure using the “Velcro” strap. Re-adjust the Proactive kneepad to the position required.

Lower leg Straps:- An optional accessory used for ensuring the lower parts of the patient’s legs stay in close proximity to the Proactive Pad™ for correct lifting procedure.

Re-fitting the foot support is acheived by reversing the above procedure. Note: Ensure the two hooks on the foot support locate over the top two locating buttons. P1450

The Strap ensures the lower parts of the patient’s legs stay in close proximity to the Proactive Pad for correct lifting procedure. The strap is held in position in relationship to the Proactive Pad by passing through the guides on the back of the Proactive Pad then around the patients lower calves to be finally overlapped and pressed together to join the “velcro” fastening. (See Fig. 8). Ensure the strap is firm but comfortable for the patient P1333a/2

.

Fig. 6

Proactive Pad™:- This is a reactive lower leg support Fig. 1 and 7), which enables the patient to be lifted comfortably and effortlessly. It can be adjusted vertically for differing lower leg lengths and is sprung to stay in contact, when the patient’s

Fig. 8

9

Product Description/Function

Adjustable width chassis legs:- By operating the appropriate button on either the control handset or dual control panel on the lifter the chassis legs can be opened to any variable width (See Fig. 9). When pressure is released from the button, movement will stop and the chassis legs will remain securely in position.

The retractable commode pan, accessible from the rear of the seat, (see Fig. 11), may be utilised, or removed to enable the patient to be positioned over a toilet. Apply chassis brakes if leaving the patient unattended.

Note: Transportation should be done with the chassis legs closed, it will be easier through doorways etc. P1332d

P1335e

•

Removal of any clothing can be attended to, and the patient is then lowered down onto the commode seat. It is recommended that the patient is kept supported by the sling.

Fig. 11 Fig. 9

Warning: At all times the patient and/or operator should not allow their feet or any other part of their body to be placed in the area between the foot support and chassis legs when the chassis legs are closing.

Commode Seat (Accessory)

P1335d/2

For toileting patients at the chair or bedside or for patients who cannot be transported with the transfer sling, the use of the commode seat and frame is the recommended method of transporting patients over longer distances. The commode frame is inserted into the holes in the chassis legs (see Fig. 10), once the patient has been lifted to a standing or near standing position in the manner previously described.

Fig. 10 10

Using your Sara Plus

P1334b/2

Using the Sara Plus for Toiletting and Transporting Before approaching the Patient the attendant should always tell the patient what they are going to do, and have the correct size and type of sling ready. (See description of sling types in the “Introduction” section.) Although the sling can be fitted to the patient with the Sara Plus in close proximity it may be considered easier to fit the sling to the patient with the Sara Plus away. Once the sling has been fitted (see following sections) the Sara Plus may be brought to the patient as follows:-

Fig. 13

Adjust the Proactive Pad™ height (if necessary) – an approximate guide is to align the top of the Proactive Pad™ just below the patient’s patella. (See Fig. 14). P1334g/2

Adjust the height of the Patient Support arms to be raised or lowered sufficiently to avoid approaching the patient at eye level, making allowances for the patients arms and any obstructions, e.g. chair arms etc.

P1334a/2

Approach the patient from the front with the lifter, stop before the foot support and Proactive Pad™ are in contact with the patient. (See Fig. 12)

Fig. 14

P1331e/2

Carefully push the lifter in closer to make full lower leg contact with the Proactive Pad™ (see Fig. 15), then apply the chassis brakes. Fig. 12

•

Note: If required, the chassis legs may be opened to go around the chair, by operating the appropriate button on the control handset or dual control on the lifter.

•

Note: If the handset button or dual control button is released during any function, powered motion will stop immediately.

Fig. 15

When the patient is ready, give assistance or allow the patient to place his/her feet on the foot support, pushing the Sara Plus towards the patient a little to achieve this easily. (See Fig. 13).

For the use of each individual type of sling see following sections: -

11

Using your Sara Plus

Standing Sling

•

Warning: Assessment will have to be made whether the patient requires the lower leg straps, apply if necessary.

Note: The support strap will assist in supporting the patient in the sling during the lifting procedure. The strap also retains the sling in the correct position around the patient. P1333c

Allow the patient to hold the handgrips, with their arms resting on the Arc-Rest. This will not apply if fitting the sling around the patient before the Sara Plus is brought into close proximity.

P1333b

Encourage the patient to lean slightly forwards to enable the sling to be placed around the lower back of the patient (see Fig. 16). Position the sling around the patient’s back so that the bottom of the sling lies horizontally approximately two inches above the patient’s waistline, with the patient’s arms outside the sling. Ensure the support strap is separated, brought loosely around the body, and is not twisted or trapped behind the patient’s back. Fig. 17

If the Sara Plus is not already in close proximity to the patient bring it to the patient as described previously. Take each adjustment cord in turn and attach to the sling. (See Fig. 18).

Fig. 16

P1333d, e, f

Fitting the Loop Lock cord attachment system

Cone

Fasten the support strap securely by overlapping and pressing the “Velcro” together. The strap should be tight, but comfortable for the patient. (See Fig. 17). ‘Cup’ section

•

Note: As stated previously, the standing sling may be applied before the Sara Plus is brought into position as shown in figure 13. Warning: The support strap must always be applied when using any of the slings. Fig. 18

12

Using your Sara Plus

If possible, the patient should then hold on to the Patient Support arms with one or both hands.

Warning: Ensure the cone is pulled tightly into the cup section. (See Fig. 18).

The patient is then ready to be lifted.

When both cords are attached correctly make adjustments on both cords equally so that any slack is taken up in each cord and the back section of the sling supports the patient comfortably and securely, lock the adjustment cords down into the cord retaining cleats. (See Fig. 19).

•

If the patient is able to offer some assistance when standing this may be beneficial to patient confidence and muscular exercise. Encourage the patient to assist all he/she can to raise from the chair and/or steady themselves.

Warning: Ensure the cord end knobs are away from the proactive pad™ when the patients legs are near or in contact with the pad.

Operate the lift button on the handset or dual control panel to raise the patient to a suitable and comfortable height for the particular function, e.g. transportation, toileting with commode, etc. (See Fig. 21) P1334f/2

P1331b/2, P1381b

Detail view showing cords & cleats

Note: If the handset button or dual control button is released during lifting or lowering powered motion will stop immediately.

Fig. 19

Note: The patient should be supported by the sling, but not pulled forward too much. (See Fig. 20)

Fig. 21

IMPORTANT: Always check that the sling adjustment cords are fully in position and locked before and during the commencement of the lifting cycle, and in tension as the patient’s weight is gradually taken up.

P1334e/2

•

•

Note: If the patient can stand sufficiently well and lock his/her knees in the normal way when fully raised, their knees will come away from the Proactive Pad™ and he/she will be able to lean back into the sling.

Patients who can only hold on with one hand, (those who have suffered a “stroke”, for example) may still be lifted by using the Sara Plus. The patient may just rest the unusable arm on the Arc-Rest or hold it across their chest, and rest their elbow on the end of the Arc-Rest, while their useable hand holds the handgrip in the normal way.

Fig. 20

13

Using your Sara Plus

Pull apart the “Velcro” fastening to remove the support strap.

Warning: Only use this or other methods after a satisfactory professional assessment has been carried out on the individual patient.

Warning: Do not attempt to release the support strap while the patient is supported by the sling.

If required insert the detachable seat frame into the receptor holes in the chassis legs, then lower the patient to a comfortable seating position for commode toiletting or longer distance transportation. (See Fig. 22).

Remove the sling from the patient.

PP1331e/2

Remove the lower leg straps if they have been applied. Warning: If the patient lacks sitting balance and has been returned to sit on the side of the bed a second attendant may be needed to support the patient while the sling is being removed.

Transfer and Walking Sling Using the sling for transfer (140Kg - 308 lbs maximum patient weight):- The attendant should always tell the patient what they are going to do, and have the correct size and type of sling ready. (See description of sling types in the “Introduction” section.) Fig. 22

•

Encourage the patient to lean slightly forwards to enable the selected sling to be placed around the lower back of the patient (see Fig. 23). Position the sling around the patient’s back so that the bottom edge of the sling is level with the base of the spine. Ensure the patient’s arms are outside the sling and that the support strap is separated.

Note: The chassis legs will have to be adjusted to the closed position to fit the seat frame.

Release the brakes, and transfer the patient to new position, i.e., toilet, wheelchair, chair, bed, etc. •

Take each leg section of the sling in turn and slide under each leg, (see Fig. 24).

Note: Transportation should be done with the chassis legs closed, it will be easier through doorways etc.

Bring the support strap around the body and fasten securely by overlapping and pressing the “Velcro” together. P1337a

While the patient is raised, make any necessary adjustments to clothing, incontinence pads etc., before lowering again. Lower the patient carefully using the control handset or dual control panel. Warning: Apply the chassis brakes if leaving the patient at the toilet, or if leaving the patient unattended. When the patient is seated in the new position, and you wish to remove the sling. Pull each cord up from the locking cleats and slacken the cords sufficiently to release the Loop Lock™ fitting, then remove the cords from the sling.

Fig. 23

Take each leg section of the sling in turn and slide under each leg, (see Fig. 25).

14

P1337b

P1334a/2

Using your Sara Plus

Fig. 24 Fig. 26

Note: The support strap will assist in supporting the patient in the sling during the lifting procedure.

•

Note: If required, the chassis legs may be opened to go around the chair, by operating the appropriate button on the control handset or dual control on the lifter.

•

Note: If the handset button or dual control button is released during any function, powered motion will stop immediately.

P1337d

•

P334b/2

Give assistance or allow the patient to place his/her feet on the foot support, pushing the Sara Plus towards the patient a little to achieve this easily. (See Fig. 27).

Fig. 25

The strap should be tight but comfortable for the patient. (See Fig. 26). Fig. 27

Adjust the Proactive Pad™ height (if necessary) - to align the top of the Proactive Pad™ just above the patients patella, or adjust the pad to its highest position. (see Fig. 28).

15

Detail view showing cords & cleats

P1338a, P1381b

P1334d/2

Using your Sara Plus

Fig. 28

Identify the attachment loop on each side of the sling and attach the right hand adjustment cord to the left loop, repeat for the other side (see Fig. 29). See also Fig. 18 for attachment of the cords.

Fig. 30

P1338b

P1337c

Identify the support strap on each side of the sling (fitted with a plastic attachment clip), and adjust both straps to their maximum length. Attach each clip to the lug situated on the outer sides of the ArcRest (see Fig. 31).

Fig. 29

When both cords are attached correctly make adjustments on both cords equally so that any slack in the cord is taken up.

Fig. 31

Warning: Lock the adjustment cords down into the cord retaining cleats (see also Fig. 30).

Warning: Ensure each clip is attached correctly and secure onto the lug. Allow the patient to hold the hand grips with their arms resting on the Arc-Rest.

Warning: Ensure the cord end knobs are away from the proactive pad™ when the patients legs are near or in contact with the pad.

Operate the lift button on the handset or dual control panel, continue to raise until each support strap is in tension and the patient’s back just comes away from the chair, then stop the lift. Then adjust both cords equally to take up any slack, lock both cords into the locking cleats. (See Fig. 32). Continue raising until the patient is just clear of the seat.

16

Using your Sara Plus

P1338c

Using the sling for walking practice - (190Kg 420 lbs maximum patient weight):Remove the foot support from the lifter and store carefully for future use (see “Product Description/ Function” section in this manual). As with all types of lift, before approaching the patient the attendant should always tell the patient what they are going to do, and have the correct size and type of sling ready. Encourage the patient to lean slightly forwards to enable the selected sling to be placed around the lower back of the patient (see Fig. 23). Position the sling around the patient’s back so that the bottom edge of the sling is level with the base of the spine. Ensure the patient’s arms are outside the sling and that the support strap is separated. Bring the support strap around the body and fasten securely by overlapping and pressing the “Velcro” together. The strap should be tight but comfortable for the patient.

Fig. 32

If any discomfort is experienced by the patient return to the sitting position and re-adjust. Warning: Important: Always check that the sling adjustment cords and support strap attachment clips are fully in position and locked before and during the commencement of the lifting cycle, and in tension as the patients weight is gradually taken up.

•

Note: The support strap will assist in supporting the patient in the sling during the lifting procedure.

Take each leg section of the sling in turn and slide under each leg (See Fig. 25).

Be careful not to raise the patient too high as this will negate the comfort of the transfer sling.

Pull up each leg section strap and connect to each corresponding body strap, by connecting both halves of the buckles securely (see Fig. 34).

P1338d

P1339d

Release the chassis brakes and close the chassis legs, then transport the patient to desired position.(See Fig. 33).

Fig. 34

Adjust the straps to be supportive but not restrictive for the patient. (See Fig. 35).

Fig. 33

Transportation should be done with the chassis legs closed, it will be easier through doorways etc.

•

Warning: Apply the chassis brakes if leaving the patient unattended. Do not attempt to release the straps or cords while the patient is supported by the sling.

17

Note: The leg section strap connection can be performed after the patient has been lifted if preferred.

Using your Sara Plus

P1339e

Identify the cord attachment loop on each side of the sling body and attach the cords (Loop Lock method as previously shown in Fig. 18). When both cords are attached correctly adjust both cords equally so that the slack is taken up, but does not pull the patient forward.

Detail view showing cords & cleats

Fig. 35

P1339a, P1381b

Warning: Lock the adjustment cords down into the cord retaining cleats. (See Fig. 37).

Adjust the height of the Arc-Rest to be as low as possible, making allowances for obstructions, e.g. Chair arms etc.

P1331d/2

Approach the patient from the front with the lifter; stop before the Proactive Pad is in contact with the patient. (See Fig. 36).

Fig. 37

Allow the patient to hold the handgrips with their arms resting on the Arc-Rest.

Detail view of strap attachment

Fig. 36

•

Note: If required, the chassis legs may be opened to go around the chair, by operating the appropriate button on the control handset or dual control on the lifter.

•

Note: If the handset button or dual control button is released during any function, powered motion will stop immediately.

Adjust the Proactive Pad height (if necessary) - an approximate guide is to align the top of the Proactive Pad just below the patient’s patella. (See Fig. 28).

P1339c, P1381a

Slacken the adjustment on each body support strap (if required), enough to be able to connect the attachment clips to the lugs on the outer sides of the Arc-Rest (See Fig. 38).

Fig. 38

Carefully push the lifter in closer to make full lower leg contact with the Proactive Pad, then apply the chassis brakes.

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Using your Sara Plus

P1339b

P1340a

When the patient is ready, operate the lift button on the handset or dual control to raise the patient, at the same time encourage him/her to actively stand (See Fig. 39).

P1340b

Fig. 41

Fig. 39

P1339f

Continue to raise the Arc-Rest until the patient is in a comfortably supported standing position (see Fig. 40).

Fig. 42

Fig. 40

If walking practice is to be carried out ensure the patient is correctly and comfortably supported, adjust the body support straps equally to take up any slack and be supportive but not too tight and make adjustment to the Arc-Rest as necessary.

•

Note: The chassis legs may be opened or left open to give better clearance for the patient.

•

Note: The ‘straight line’ steering lock (if fitted) can be applied over the rear castor as an additional aid if required.

With the Pro-Active pad removed and the brakes released, the patient will be able to walk at their own pace, while being supported by the Sara Plus. (See Fig. 43).

When the patient is standing confidently release the brakes and pull the lifter slightly away from the patient until the Proactive Pad is clear of the patients legs (see Fig. 41). Re-apply the chassis brakes then carefully remove the Proactive Pad complete with attachment bracket by lifting upwards and store carefully for future use. (See Fig. 42).

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Reset Button (lbs to kg)

Print out button (if facility is fitted)

Scale operating button

mP1431c

P1340c

Using your Sara Plus

Visual display Fig. 44

Fig. 43

Scale Labels •

Note: To have better flexion for the leg it may be necessary to slacken the leg straps slightly, this will allow better leg movement.

On the labels relating to the Scale you will find the following information:-

Warning: Do not separate the two halves of the buckles or release the adjustment cords at any stage other than when the patient is seated and fully supported.

Weight range 1 = 2kg - 120kg (4lbs - 264.6lbs)

Ensure there are no obstructions in the path before the patient is encouraged to walk.

d = Actual Scale Division

Rating and Battery Size Label (attached to the plate behind the lifter battery) d = e 100g (0.2lbs) Weight range 2 = 4kg - 190kg (10lbs - 419lbs) d = e 200g (0.5lbs) Serial number label (attached to the plate behind the lifter battery)

Once walking practice has been completed, apply the chassis brakes and replace the Pro-Active pad, return the patient to a chair and when fully supported, remove the sling by reversing the fitting procedure.

ARJO Scale (if fitted) If your Sara Plus has been supplied with the integral Scale unit (see Fig. 44), it is possible to weigh a patient during the lifting procedure. The scale has been designed to weigh hospital or care facility patients under the supervision of trained nursing staff. All other uses must be avoided.

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