Nutron Series R51 and R51lxp Owners Operator and Maintenance Manual

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS

WARNING Aqualified technician MUST perform the initial set up of this wheelchair. Also, a qualified technician MUST perform all procedures in the service manual. DO NOT use this product or any available optional equipment without first completely reading and understanding these instructions and any additional instructional material such as owner’s manuals, service manuals or instruction sheets supplied with this product or optional equipment. If you are unable to understand the warnings, cautions or instructions, contact a healthcare professional, dealer or technical personnel before attempting to use this equipment - otherwise, injury or damage may occur.

ACCESSORIES WARNING Invacare products are specifically designed and manufactured for use in conjunction with Invacare accessories. Accessories designed by other manufacturers have not been tested by Invacare and are not recommended for use with Invacare products.

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS DOCUMENT

PART NUMBER

Quad Link and Height Adjustable Joystick Mount Instruction Sheet

1134844

MK5™NX™Electronics Manual

1110532

NOTE: Updated versions of this manual are available on www.invacare.com. R51™and R51LXP

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Part No. 1106645

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS REFERENCE DOCUMENTS ... 2 REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT ... 6 SPECIAL NOTES ... 7 TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS ... 8 SECTION 1-GENERAL GUIDELINES ... 9 Repair or Service Information ...9 Accessories Information ...9 Operating Information...9 Tire Pressure ...11 Electrical Accessories ...11 Grounding Instructions ...11 Batteries...11 Charging Batteries ...12 Rain Test...12 Weight Training ...13 Weight Limitation...13 SECTION 2-EMI INFORMATION ... 14 SECTION 3-SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS ... 16 Stability and Balance...16 Coping With Everyday Obstacles...17 A Note to Wheelchair Assistants...17 Tilting...18 Tilting - Curbs...18 Stairways...19 Escalators ...19 Transferring To and From Other Seats ...20 Reaching, Leaning and Bending - Forward ...20 Reaching and Bending - Backward ...21 SECTION 4-SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING ... 22 Safety Inspection Checklists...22 Inspect/Adjust Initially ...22 Inspect/Adjust Weekly...23 Inspect/Adjust Monthly...23 Inspect/Adjust Periodically...23 Troubleshooting Guide ...24 Part No. 1106645

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS Troubleshooting - Electrical...24 SPJ+ Joysticks ...24 Information Gauge Display Diagnostics ...25 Service Indicator Light Diagnostics ...25 Checking Battery Charge Level...26 SECTION 5-WHEELCHAIR OPERATION ... 27 Operating the Wheelchair...27 Turning the Power On/Off ...27 Using the Joystick to Drive the Wheelchair...28 SPJ+ Joystick Switches and Indicators...29 On/Off Button ...29 Speedometer...29 Speed Control Buttons...30 Joystick...30 Charger/Programming Input...30 Service Indicator...30 Information Gauge Display ...31 SECTION 6-FRONT RIGGINGS ... 32 Installing/Removing the Footrests...32 Installing...32 Removing ...32 Adjusting the Footrest Height ...33 Model PW93, PW93E, and PW93ST Footrests ...33 Model 93M, 904A, PAL4A, and PAS4A Footrests ...35 Replacing Heel Loops ...35 Installing/Removing Elevating Legrests...36 Installing...36 Removing ...36 Raising/Lowering Elevating Legrests and/or Adjusting Calfpads ...36 Raising/Lowering Elevating Legrests ...36 Adjusting Calfpads...37 Adjusting/Replacing Telescoping Front Rigging Support ...37 SECTION 7-ARMS ... 39 Adjusting Armrest Height...39 Using Swing-Back Arms...40 Replacing Desk/Full Length Armrest Pad and/or Clothing Guards ...40 Armrest Pad ...40 Clothing Guard...40 R51™and R51LXP

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS Removing/Installing Armrest...41 Removing ...41 Installing...41 SECTION 8-BACK ... 42 Adjusting the Back Height ...42 Using the Fold Down Back Canes ...43 Changing the Back Angle ...43 SECTION 9-UPHOLSTERY/SEAT POSITIONING STRAP ... 45 Replacing Seat Upholstery...45 Replacing Back Upholstery ...45 Replacing Seat Positioning Strap ...46 SECTION 10-JOYSTICK ... 48 Preparing the Joystick For Use...48 Repositioning the Joystick...49 SECTION 11-CASTERS ... 50 Adjusting Forks ...50 SECTION 12-BATTERIES ... 51 Warnings for Handling and Replacing Batteries ...51 Using the Proper Batteries...51 Recommended Battery Types ...52 Installing/Removing the Battery Boxes ...53 Installing/Removing the Battery Tray ...54 Installing/Removing the Batteries Into/From the Battery Boxes ...55 Connecting Battery Cables ...57 Direct Mount Method...57 Battery Clamp Method ...60 Replacing the Battery Box Retaining Strap ...63 Cleaning Battery Terminals ...64 When to Charge Batteries...65 SPJ+ Joysticks ...65 Description and Use of Battery Chargers...66 Connecting the Battery Charger...66 SECTION 13-CLUTCH/MOTOR LOCK ... 67 Engaging/Disengaging the Clutches...67

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS Disengaging/Engaging the Motor Lock Levers - R51LXP Only ...68 Four Pole Motors...68 SECTION 14-WHEEL LOCKS ... 69 Installing/Adjusting/Using the Wheel Locks ...69 Installing/Adjusting ...69 Using ...70 SECTION 15-ANTI-TIPPERS ... 71 Installing/Removing the Anti-Tippers...71 Installing...71 Removing ...71 SECTION 16-TRANSPORTING ... 72 Transporting the Nutron...72 Unfolding/Folding the Wheelchair ...72 Unfolding ...72 Folding ...72 GLOBAL LIMITED WARRANTY (EXCLUDING CANADA) ... 75 CANADA LIMITED WARRANTY ... 76

REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT The benefits of registering include: 1. Safeguarding your investment. 2. Ensuring long-term maintenance and servicing of your product. 3. Receiving updates with product information, maintenance tips and industry news.

Register ONLINE at warranty.invacare.com Please have your model number and purchase date available to complete your registration. Any registration information you submit will only be used by Invacare Corporation and protected as required by applicable laws and regulations.

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SPECIAL NOTES

SPECIAL NOTES Signal words are used in this manual and apply to hazards or unsafe practices which could result in personal injury or property damage. Refer to the table below for definitions of the signal words. SIGNAL WORD

MEANING

DANGER

Danger indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING

Warning indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION

Caution indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.

NOTICE THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. WHEELCHAIR USER As a manufacturer of wheelchairs, Invacare endeavors to supply a wide variety of wheelchairs to meet many needs of the end user. However, final selection of the type of wheelchair to be used by an individual rests solely with the user and his/her healthcare professional capable of making such a selection. WHEELCHAIR TIE-DOWN RESTRAINTS AND SEAT RESTRAINTS Wheelchair users should NOT be transported in vehicles of any kind while in wheelchairs. As of this date, the Department of Transportation has not approved any tie-down systems for transportation of a user while in a wheelchair, in a moving vehicle of any type. It is Invacare’s position that users of wheelchairs should be transferred into appropriate seating in vehicles for transportation and use be made of the restraints made available by the auto industry. Invacare cannot and does not recommend any wheelchair transportation systems.

WARNING The seat positioning strap is a positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear appear, the belt MUST be replaced immediately. Invacare products are specifically designed and manufactured for use in conjunction with Invacare accessories. Accessories designed by other manufacturers have not been tested by Invacare and are not recommended for use with Invacare products. Wheelchairs should be examined during maintenance for signs of corrosion (water exposure, incontinence, etc.). Electrical components damaged by corrosion should be replaced immediately. Wheelchairs that are used by incontinent users and/or are frequently exposed to water may require replacement of electrical components more frequently. Part No. 1106645

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TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS NUTRON R51 AND R51LXP SEAT WIDTH RANGE

14, 16, 18 or 20 inches

SEAT DEPTH RANGE

16, 17 or 18 inches (17 and 18 in. by extension)

BACK HEIGHT RANGE STANDARD

16, 17 or 18 inches

SEAT-TO-FLOOR

17¾ or 19¾ inches

OVERALL WIDTH

21¾ inches to 27¾ inches (With joystick)

OVERALL HEIGHT LOW SEAT ADULT

33¼ inches to 37¼ inches 35¼ inches to 39¼ inches

OVERALL LENGTH

36½ inches to 47¼ inches

WEIGHT W/O BATTERIES AND FRONT RIGGINGS W/ BATTERIES AND PW93 FRONT RIGGINGS UI GEL CELL (14-INCH CHAIRS) 22NF GEL CELL (16, 18 OR 20 INCH CHAIRS) SHIPPING

82 pounds 145 pounds 110 pounds 157 pounds 128 pounds

DRIVE WHEELS/TIRES (FLAT FREE OR PNEUMATIC)

12½ inches x 2¼ inches

CASTERS W/PRECISION SEALED BEARINGS

8 x 1¾ inches semi pneumatic (standard) 8 x 2 inches pneumatic (optional) 6 x 2 inches semi pneumatic (optional)

ANTI-TIPPERS

Rotating, removable (standard)

FOOTREST/LEGREST

Swingaway, removable

ARMRESTS FIXED HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT

Desk and full length (standard) Desk and full length (optional)

UPHOLSTERY

Black nylon

BATTERIES BATTERY/SIZE (NOT SUPPLIED) TWO REQUIRED

UI gel cell 22NF gel cell (not available on 14-inch wide wheelchairs)

SPEED (M.P.H.)

0 to 4 (R51) or 0 to 6 (R51LXP)

TURNING RADIUS

35 inches

*RANGE (VARIABLE)

12 - 14 miles with UI batteries 18 - 22 miles with 22NF batteries

**WEIGHT LIMITATION R51 R51LXP

250 lbs 300 lbs

*NOTE: Values for range are calculated for maximum chair weight rating using largest batteries applicable (22NF), per test procedures described in ANSI/RESNA WC/VOL2-1998 Section 4 and meet federal reimbursement requirements for this product. While considered typical, they are derived based on certain ideal conditions. Variances in battery condition, user weight, usage pattern or overall terrain conditions will result in actual values for range that differ from these stated values. Users should become accustomed to how their unique conditions impact their individual results. Users should become familiar with the battery discharge indicator on the joystick to determine the range of their wheelchair. Refer to When to Charge Batteries on page 65 for more information about the battery discharge indicator. **NOTE: Includes seating system and accessories. R51™and R51LXP

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SECTION 1-GENERAL GUIDELINES

SECTION 1-GENERAL GUIDELINES
WARNING

SECTION 1 - GENERAL GUIDELINES contains important information for the safe operation and use of this product.

Repair or Service Information Set-up of the Electronic Control Unit is to be performed ONLY by a qualified technician. The final adjustments of the controller may affect other activities of the wheelchair. Damage to the equipment could occur if imporoperly set-up or adjusted. Wheelchairs should be examined during maintenance for signs of corrosion (water exposure, incontinence, etc.). Electrical components damaged by corrosion should be replaced IMMEDIATELY. Wheelchairs that are used by incontinent users and/or frequently exposed to water may require replacement of electrical components more frequently.

Accessories Information Invacare products are specifically designed and manufactured for use in conjunction with Invacare accessories. Accessories designed by other manufacturers have not been tested by Invacare and are not recommended for use with Invacare products.

Operating Information Performance adjustments should only be made by professionals of the healthcare field or persons fully conversant with this process and the driver's capabilities. Incorrect settings could cause injury to the driver, bystanders, damage to the chair and to surrounding property. After the wheelchair has been set-up, check to make sure that the wheelchair performs to the specifications entered during the set-up procedure. If the wheelchair does not perform to specifications, turn the wheelchair off immediately and re-enter set-up specifications. Repeat this procedure until the wheelchair performs to specifications. DO NOT shift your weight or sitting position toward the direction you are reaching as the wheelchair may tip over. DO determine and establish your particular safety limits by practicing bending, reaching and transferring activities in the presence of a qualified healthcare professional BEFORE attempting active use of the wheelchair. DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat. DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to pick them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees. Part No. 1106645

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SECTION 1-GENERAL GUIDELINES DO NOT lean over the top of the back upholstery to reach objects from behind as this may cause the wheelchair to tip over. DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily injury may occur. Before attempting to transfer in or out of the wheelchair, every precaution should be taken to reduce the gap distance. Turn both casters parallel to the object you are transferring onto. Also be certain the power is off and the wheel locks are engaged to prevent the wheels from moving. DO NOT engage or disengage the motor release levers until the power is in the off position. Invacare strongly recommends proceeding down ramps or slopes at half speed or slower and to avoid hard braking or sudden stops. DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by lifting on any removable (detachable) parts. Lifting by means of any removable (detachable) parts of a wheelchair may result in injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair. ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. The seat positioning strap is a positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear appear, belt MUST be replaced immediately. Before performing any maintenance, adjustment or service verify that the ON/OFF switch on the joystick is in the off position. Avoid storing or using the wheelchair near open flame or combustible products. Serious injury or damage to property may result. DO NOT engage or disengage the motor locks/clutches until the power is in the OFF position. DO NOT operate on roads, streets or highways. DO NOT climb, go up or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 9°. DO NOT attempt to move up or down an incline with a water, ice or oil film. DO NOT attempt to drive over curbs or obstacles. Doing so may cause your wheelchair to turn over and cause bodily harm or damage to the chair. DO NOT leave the power button in the on position when entering or exiting your wheelchair. DO NOT stand on the frame of the wheelchair. DO NOT use the footplates as a platform. When getting in or out of the wheelchair, make sure that the footplates are in the upward position or swing footrests towards the outside of the chair. Anti-tippers MUST be used at all times. When outdoors on wet, soft ground or gravel surfaces, anti-tippers may not provide the same level of protection against tipover. Extra caution must be observed when traversing such surfaces.

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SECTION 1-GENERAL GUIDELINES

Tire Pressure DO NOT use your wheelchair unless it has the proper tire pressure (p.s.i.). DO NOT overinflate the tires. Failure to follow these suggestions may cause the tire to explode and cause bodily harm. The recommended tire pressure is listed on the side wall of the tire.

Electrical Accessories EXTREME care should be exercised when using oxygen in close proximity to electric circuits. Contact your oxygen supplier for instruction in the use of oxygen.

Grounding Instructions DO NOT, under any circumstances, cut or remove the round grounding prong from any plug used with or for Invacare products. Some devices are equipped with three-prong (grounding) plugs for protection against possible shock hazards. Where a two-prong wall receptacle is encountered, it is the personal responsibility and obligation of the customer to contact a qualified electrician and have the two-prong receptacle replaced with a properly grounded three-prong wall receptacle in accordance with the National Electrical Code. If you must use an extension cord, use only a three-wire extension cord having the same or higher electrical rating as the device being connected. In addition, Invacare has placed RED/ORANGE WARNING TAGS on some equipment. DO NOT remove these tags.

Batteries  DANGER

When using an extension cord, use only a three wire extension cord having at least 16 AWG (American Wire Gauge) wire and the same or higher electrical rating as the devise being connected. Use of improper extension cord could result in a risk of fire and electric shock. Three prong to two prong adapters should not be used. Use of three prong adapters can result in improper grounding and present a shock hazard to the user. The warranty and performance specifications contained in this manual are based on the deep cycle gel cell batteries. Invacare strongly recommends their use as the power source for this unit. Carefully read battery/battery charger information prior to installing, servicing or operating your wheelchair.

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SECTION 1-GENERAL GUIDELINES

Charging Batteries NEVER attempt to recharge the batteries by attaching cables directly to the battery terminals. DO NOT attempt to recharge the batteries and operate the wheelchair at the same time. DO NOT operate wheelchair with extension cord attached to the AC cable. DO NOT attempt to recharge the batteries when the wheelchair has been exposed to any type of moisture. DO NOT attempt to recharge the batteries when the wheelchair is outside. DO NOT sit in the wheelchair while charging the batteries. READ and CAREFULLY follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each charger (supplied or purchased). If charging instructions are not supplied, consult a qualified technician for proper procedures. After charging batteries, ALWAYS make sure that the battery charger cord is unplugged. Failure to do this could result in damage to the cord or personal injury to the user or bystanders. Ensure the pins of the extension cord plug are the same number, size, and shape as those on the charger. DO NOT under any circumstances cut or remove the round grounding plug from the charger AC cable plug or the extension cord plug.

Rain Test Invacare has tested its power wheelchairs in accordance with ISO 7176 Part 9 “Rain Test”. This provides the end user or his/her attendant sufficient time to remove his/her power wheelchair from a rain storm and retain wheelchair operation. DO NOT leave power wheelchair in a rain storm of any kind. DO NOT use power wheelchair in a shower or leave it in a damp bathroom while taking a shower. DO NOT leave power wheelchair in a damp area for any length of time. Direct exposure to rain or dampness will cause the chair to malfunction electrically and mechanically; may cause the chair to prematurely rust. Check to ensure that the battery covers are secured in place, joystick boot is not torn or cracked where water can enter and that all electrical connections are secure at all times. DO NOT use the joystick if the boot is torn or cracked. If the joystick boot becomes torn or cracked, replace immediately.

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SECTION 1-GENERAL GUIDELINES

Weight Training Invacare DOES NOT recommend the use of its wheelchairs as a weight training apparatus. Invacare wheelchairs have not been designed or tested as a seat for any kind of weight training. If occupant uses said wheelchair as a weight training apparatus, Invacare shall not be liable for bodily injury, and the warranty is void.

Weight Limitation The Nutron R51 has a weight limitation, including the seating system, of 250 lbs. The Nutron R51LXP has a weight limitation of 300 lbs. Refer to Coping With Everyday Obstacles on page 17. Invacare recommends that only heavy-duty wheelchairs be used for individuals weighing more than 250 lbs. Further, the activity level of the individual wheelchair user is important. For instance, a 170 lbs active wheelchair user could subject the wheelchair to more stress than a 250 lbs user. Invacare recommends that very active users consider using heavy-duty wheelchairs.

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SECTION 2-EMI INFORMATION

SECTION 2-EMI INFORMATION
WARNING CAUTION: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU READ THIS INFORMATION REGARDING THE POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE ON YOUR POWERED WHEELCHAIR. Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) From Radio Wave Sources Powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters (in this text, both will be referred to as powered wheelchairs) may be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is interfering electromagnetic energy (EM) emitted from sources such as radio stations, TV stations, amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two way radios, and cellular phones. The interference (from radio wave sources) can cause the powered wheelchair to release its brakes, move by itself, or move in unintended directions. It can also permanently damage the powered wheelchair's control system. The intensity of the interfering EM energy can be measured in volts per meter (V/m). Each powered wheelchair can resist EMI up to a certain intensity. This is called its "immunity level." The higher the immunity level, the greater the protection. At this time, current technology is capable of achieving at least a 20 V/m immunity level, which would provide useful protection from the more common sources of radiated EMI. There are a number of sources of relatively intense electromagnetic fields in the everyday environment. Some of these sources are obvious and easy to avoid. Others are not apparent and exposure is unavoidable. However, we believe that by following the warnings listed below, your risk to EMI will be minimized. The sources of radiated EMI can be broadly classified into three types: 1) Hand-held Portable transceivers (transmitters-receivers with the antenna mounted directly on the transmitting unit. Examples include: citizens band (CB) radios, "walkie talkie", security, fire and police transceivers, cellular telephones, and other personal communication devices). NOTE: Some cellular telephones and similar devices transmit signals while they are ON, even when not being used. 2) Medium-range mobile transceivers, such as those used in police cars, fire trucks, ambulances and taxis. These usually have the antenna mounted on the outside of the vehicle; and 3) Long-range transmitters and transceivers, such as commercial broadcast transmitters (radio and TV broadcast antenna towers) and amateur (HAM) radios. NOTE: Other types of hand-held devices, such as cordless phones, laptop computers, AM/FM radios, TV sets, CD players, cassette players, and small appliances, such as electric shavers and hair dryers, so far as we know, are not likely to cause EMI problems to your powered wheelchair.

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SECTION 2-EMI INFORMATION

WARNING Powered Wheelchair Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Because EM energy rapidly becomes more intense as one moves closer to the transmitting antenna (source), the EM fields from hand-held radio wave sources (transceivers) are of special concern. It is possible to unintentionally bring high levels of EM energy very close to the powered wheelchair's control system while using these devices. This can affect powered wheelchair movement and braking. Therefore, the warnings listed below are recommended to prevent possible interference with the control system of the powered wheelchair. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from sources such as radio and TV stations, amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios, and cellular phones can affect powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters. FOLLOWING THE WARNINGS LISTED BELOW SHOULD REDUCE THE CHANCE OF UNINTENDED BRAKE RELEASE OR POWERED WHEELCHAIR MOVEMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY. 1) Do not operate hand-held transceivers (transmitters receivers), such as citizens band (CB) radios, or turn ON personal communication devices, such as cellular phones, while the powered wheelchair is turned ON; 2) Be aware of nearby transmitters, such as radio or TV stations, and try to avoid coming close to them; 3) If unintended movement or brake release occurs, turn the powered wheelchair OFF as soon as it is safe; 4) Be aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the powered wheelchair, may make it more susceptible to EMI (NOTE: There is no easy way to evaluate their effect on the overall immunity of the powered wheelchair); and 5) Report all incidents of unintended movement or brake release to the powered wheelchair manufacturer, and note whether there is a source of EMI nearby. Important Information 1) 20 volts per meter (V/m) is a generally achievable and useful immunity level against EMI (as of May 1994) (the higher the level, the greater the protection); 2) This device has been tested to a radiated immunity level of 20 volts per meter. 3) The immunity level of the product is unknown. Modification of any kind to the electronics of this wheelchair as manufactured by Invacare may adversely affect the EMI immunity levels.

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SECTION 3-SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

SECTION 3-SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS “Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires the close attention of the wheelchair user as well as the assistant. This manual points out the most common procedures and techniques involved in the safe operation and maintenance of the wheelchair. It is important to practice and master these safe techniques until you are comfortable 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 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 architectural 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 the new wheelchair user and assistant with “safety” as the most important consideration for all.

Stability and Balance
WARNING ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. The seat positioning strap is a positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear appear, the belt must be replaced immediately. Be aware that carrying heavy objects on your lap while occupying the wheelchair may adversely affect the stability of the wheelchair, resulting in serious bodily injury to the user, damage to the wheelchair and surrounding property. This wheelchair has been designed to accommodate one individual. If more than one individual occupies the wheelchair this may adversely affect the stability of the wheelchair, resulting in serious bodily injury to the user and passenger and damage to the wheelchair and surrounding property. To assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you must at all times maintain proper balance. Your 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 wheelchair any further than the length of the armrests.

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SECTION 3-SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Coping With Everyday Obstacles
WARNING DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees. Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning, bending or bending forward, it is important to use the casters as a tool to maintain stability and balance. Many activities require the wheelchair user to reach, bend and transfer in and out of the wheelchair. These movements will cause a change to the normal balance, center of gravity, and weight distribution of the wheelchair. To determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice bending, reaching and transferring activities in several combinations in the presence of a qualified healthcare professional before attempting active use of the wheelchair. 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 stability and balance.

A Note to Wheelchair Assistants When assistance to the wheelchair user is required, remember to use good body mechanics. Keep your back straight and bend your knees whenever tilting wheelchair or traversing curbs, or other impediments.

WARNING

DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts. Lifting by means of any removable (detachable) parts of a wheelchair may result in injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair. Also, be aware of detachable parts such as arms or leg-rests. These must NEVER be used for hand-hold 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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SECTION 3-SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Tilting
WARNING

DO NOT tilt the wheelchair without assistance.

When tilting the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp the back of the wheelchair on a non-removable (non-detachable) part. Inform the wheelchair occupant before tilting the wheelchair and remind him/her to lean back. Be sure the occupant’s feet and hands are clear of all wheels.

Tilting - Curbs After mastering the techniques of tilting the wheelchair, use this procedure to tackle curbs, short stairs, etc. This procedure requires two assistants. The second assistant should be positioned at the front of the wheelchair lifting upward on a non-removable (non-detachable) part of the wheelchair frame when lifting the wheelchair and stabilizing the wheelchair when the wheelchair is being lowered to the ground. The first assistant should turn the anti-tippers so the wheels are pointing up, apply a continuous downward motion until the balance point is achieved and the front casters clear the curb. At this point, the assistants will feel a difference in the weight distribution.

WARNING DO NOT let the wheelchair drop the last few inches to the ground. This could result in injury to the occupant. Anti-tippers MUST BE used at all times. When outdoors on wet, soft ground or gravel surfaces, anti-tippers may not provide the same level of protection against tipover. Extra caution must be observed when traversing such surfaces. Roll the wheelchair forward and SLOWLY lower the wheelchair in one continuous movement. Push the wheelchair forward until the rear wheels roll up and over the curb.

WARNING

Make sure anti-tipper wheels are pointing down towards the ground/floor before using the wheelchair. Turn the anti-tipper wheels down toward the ground/floor.

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SECTION 3-SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Stairways
WARNING DO NOT attempt to move an occupied power wheelchair between floors using a stairway. Use an elevator to move an occupied power wheelchair between floors. If moving a power wheelchair between floors by means of a stairway, the occupant MUST be removed and transported independently of the power wheelchair. Extreme caution is advised when it is necessary to move an unoccupied power wheelchair up or down the stairs. Invacare recommends using two assistants and making thorough preparations. Make sure to use only secure, non-detachable parts for hand-hold supports. DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts. Lifting by means of any removable (detachable) parts of a wheelchair may result in injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair. The weight of the wheelchair without the user and batteries is between 80 and 127 lbs. Use proper lifting techniques (lift with your legs) to avoid injury. 1. Remove the occupant from the wheelchair. 2. Remove the battery boxes from the wheelchair. Refer to Installing/Removing the Battery Boxes on page 53. 3. If necessary, fold the wheelchair. Refer to Transporting the Nutron on page 72. 4. Bend your knees and keep your back straight. 5. Using non-removable (non-detachable) parts of the wheelchair, lift the wheelchair off of the ground and transfer the wheelchair up or down the stairs. 6. The wheelchair should not be lowered until the last stair has been negotiated and the wheelchair has been carried away from the stairway.

Escalators
WARNING

DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily injury may occur.

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SECTION 3-SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Transferring To and From Other Seats
WARNING ALWAYS turn the wheelchair power OFF and engage the clutches to prevent the wheels from moving BEFORE attempting to transfer in or out of the wheelchair. Also make sure every precaution is taken to reduce the gap distance by turning both casters parallel to the object you are transferring onto.

CAUTION

When transferring, position yourself as far back as possible in the seat. This will prevent broken screws, damaged upholstery and the possibility of the wheelchair tipping forward. NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 3.1. NOTE: This activity may be performed independently provided you have adequate mobility and upper body strength.

MINIMUM GAP DISTANCE

1. Position the wheelchair as close as possible along side the seat to which you are transferring, with the casters pointing parallel to it. 2. Engage clutches. Refer to Engaging/Disengaging the Clutches on page 67. 3. Shift body weight into seat with transfer.

FIGURE 3.1

During independent transfer, little or no seat platform will be beneath you. Use a transfer board if at all possible.

Transferring To and From Other Seats

Reaching, Leaning and Bending - Forward NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 3.2 on page 21. 1. Position the front casters as far forward as possible. 2. Engage clutches and, if applicable, wheel locks*.

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