Invacare SPT PHW93, SPT PH904A User Manual
Owner’s Operator and Maintenance Manual
Compass™SPT™
Compass SPT Limited
DEALER: This manual MUST be given to
the user of the wheelchair.
USER:
this manual and save for future reference.
BEFORE using this wheelchair, read
For more information regarding
Invacare products, parts, and services,
please visit www.invacare.com
WARNING
A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN MUST PERFORM THE INITIAL SET UP
OF THIS WHEELCHAIR. ALSO, A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN MUST
PERFORM ALL PROCEDURES SPECIFICALLY INDICATED IN THE
MANUAL.
WHEELCHAIR USERS: DO NOT SERVICE OR OPERATE THIS
EQUIPMENT WITHOUT FIRST READING AND UNDERSTANDING
THE OWNER’S OPERATOR AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL AND
THE SEATING SYSTEM’S MANUAL (IF APPLICABLE). IF YOU ARE
UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND THE WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND
INSTRUCTIONS, CONTACT INVACARE TECHNICAL SUPPORT
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO SERVICE OR OPERATE THIS
EQUIPMENT - OTHERWISE INJURY OR DAMAGE MAY RESULT.
DEALERS AND QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS: DO NOT SERVICE OR
OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT WITHOUT FIRST READING AND
UNDERSTANDING THE OWNER’S OPERATOR AND
MAINTENANCE MANUAL, THE SERVICE MANUAL (IF
APPLICABLE) AND THE SEATING SYSTEM’S MANUAL (IF
APPLICABLE). IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND THE
WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS, CONTACT
INVACARE TECHNICAL SUPPORT BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO
SERVICE OR OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT - OTHERWISE, INJURY
OR DAMAGE MAY RESULT.
NOTE: Updated versions of this manual are available on www.invacare.com.
Compass™SPT™ 2 Part No 1122134
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT ............................................................... 6
SPECIAL NOTES ................................................................................ 9
LABEL LOCATIONS ......................................................................... 11
FEATURES ...................................................................................... 12
TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS .................................................. 13
SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES ................................................. 14
Information for Healthcare Professionals/Assistants .......................................................................14
Stability........................................................................................................................................................14
Operating Information.............................................................................................................................15
Weight Training ........................................................................................................................................16
Weight Limitation.....................................................................................................................................16
SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING ..................................................... 17
Safety/Handling of Wheelchairs.............................................................................................................17
Stability and Balance.................................................................................................................................17
Coping With Everyday Obstacles.........................................................................................................18
A Note to Wheelchair Assistants ........................................................................................................18
Reaching, Leaning and Bending - Forward ..........................................................................................19
Reaching and Leaning - Backwards.......................................................................................................20
Tipping - Rear Wheel Configuration Only .........................................................................................20
Tipping - Curbs: Method 1 - Wheelchair with Step Tubes........................................................20
Tipping - Curbs: Method 2 - Wheelchair without Step Tube ...................................................21
Tipping - Front Wheel Configuration Only........................................................................................22
Stairways - Rear Wheel Configuration Only .....................................................................................22
Stairways - Front Wheel Configuration Only....................................................................................23
Escalators....................................................................................................................................................24
Transferring To and From Other Seats ..............................................................................................24
SECTION 3—SAFETY INSPECTION CHECKLIST ................................. 25
Safety Inspection Checklists...................................................................................................................25
Inspect/Adjust Initially .........................................................................................................................25
Inspect/Adjust Weekly........................................................................................................................26
Inspect/Adjust Monthly.......................................................................................................................26
Inspect/Adjust Periodically.................................................................................................................27
Troubleshooting - Mechanical ..............................................................................................................27
Maintenance/Transporting......................................................................................................................28
Suggested Maintenance Procedures ................................................................................................28
Transporting the Invacare Compass SPT .......................................................................................29
Compass™SPT™ 3 Part No 1122134
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 4—FRONT RIGGINGS ........................................................ 30
Installing/Removing Swingaway Front Riggings ..................................................................................30
Installing..................................................................................................................................................30
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................30
Installing/Removing Lift-Off Footrest...................................................................................................31
Installing..................................................................................................................................................31
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................31
Adjusting Footrest Height ......................................................................................................................31
Height Adjustment Ranges.................................................................................................................31
60°, 70° and 70° Taper.......................................................................................................................31
70° MFX, 90°, 70° LIFT and 90° LIFT Footrests ..........................................................................32
Model PHW93 and PH904A Front Riggings..................................................................................32
Installing Adjustable Angle Flip-up Footplate Hinge .........................................................................33
Adjusting Adjustable Angle Flip-up Footplates ..................................................................................34
Depth Adjustment ...............................................................................................................................34
Angle Adjustment ................................................................................................................................34
Composite/Articulating Footplate Heel Loop Replacement ..........................................................35
Disassembly...........................................................................................................................................35
Reassembly ............................................................................................................................................35
Installing/Removing Elevating Legrests.................................................................................................35
Installing..................................................................................................................................................35
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................36
Raising/Lowering the Elevating Legrest ...............................................................................................36
Adjusting Footplate Height and Calfpad Height/Depth ...................................................................37
Adjusting the Footplate Height.........................................................................................................37
Adjusting Calfpad Height....................................................................................................................37
Adjusting Calfpad Depth ....................................................................................................................37
Composite/Articulating Footplate Heel Loop Replacement ..........................................................38
Disassembly...........................................................................................................................................38
Reassembly ............................................................................................................................................38
Replacing Sector Block............................................................................................................................38
Installing Impact Guards/Calf Strap/H-Calf Strap..............................................................................39
SECTION 5—ARMS ......................................................................... 40
Using/Adjusting Dual Point Arms .........................................................................................................40
Installing Armrest.................................................................................................................................40
Removing Armrest...............................................................................................................................40
Adjusting Armrest................................................................................................................................40
Replacing Dual Point Arm Pad ..............................................................................................................41
Compass™SPT™ 4 Part No 1122134
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Replacing Dual Point Arm Clothing Guards ......................................................................................41
Installing/Removing T-Arms ...................................................................................................................42
Installing T-Arms ..................................................................................................................................42
Removing T-Arms................................................................................................................................42
Adjusting The T-Arms.............................................................................................................................43
Adjusting T-Arm Height .....................................................................................................................43
Adjusting T-Arm Width .....................................................................................................................44
Adjusting T-Arm Depth......................................................................................................................44
Adjusting T-Arm Sockets........................................................................................................................45
Adjusting T-Arm Transfer Assists And/or Side Guards ..................................................................46
SECTION 6—BACK/SEAT ................................................................. 47
Folding/Unfolding Back Assembly .........................................................................................................47
Installing and Removing a Seating System ...........................................................................................48
Installing Stroller Handle.........................................................................................................................48
Installing/Removing/Adjusting the Adjustable Angle Stroller Handles .........................................49
Installing..................................................................................................................................................49
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................49
Adjusting/Replacing the Back Release Cord.......................................................................................50
Adjusting the Back Release Cord.....................................................................................................50
Replacing the Back Release Cord.....................................................................................................50
Installing/Replacing Seat Positioning Straps.........................................................................................51
Installing..................................................................................................................................................51
Replacing ................................................................................................................................................51
Installing/Replacing Chest Positioning Straps .....................................................................................52
Installing..................................................................................................................................................52
Replacing ................................................................................................................................................52
SECTION 7—TILT ............................................................................ 53
Engaging Tilt-In-Space ..............................................................................................................................53
Adjusting Trigger Release Cables .........................................................................................................54
14 to 20-Inch Wide Wheelchairs.....................................................................................................54
21 to 22-Inch Wide Wheelchairs.....................................................................................................55
SECTION 8—WHEELS ....................................................................... 57
Installing/Replacing Six or Eight-inch Caster/Fork ............................................................................57
Installing Caster/Fork ..........................................................................................................................57
Replacing Caster/Fork.........................................................................................................................57
Replacing/Repairing Caster Tire/Tube.................................................................................................58
Installing/Removing Rear Wheels .........................................................................................................58
Part No 1122134 5 Compass™SPT™
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Quick-Release.......................................................................................................................................58
Permanent Axle....................................................................................................................................59
Adjusting the Quick-Release Axle........................................................................................................59
Replacing Wheel Handrim......................................................................................................................60
Replacing/Repairing Wheel Tire/Tube ............................................................................................60
SECTION 9—WHEEL LOCKS AND ANTI-TIPPERS ............................... 61
Wheel Lock Adjustment.........................................................................................................................61
Installing/Adjusting Anti-Tippers ...........................................................................................................62
Installing Anti-Tippers .........................................................................................................................62
Adjusting Anti-Tippers........................................................................................................................62
LIMITED WARRANTY ..................................................................... 63
REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT
The benefits of registering:
1. Safeguard your investment.
2. Ensure long term maintenance and servicing of your purchase.
3. Receive updates with product information, maintenance tips, and industry news.
4. Invacare can contact you or your provider, if servicing is needed on your product.
5. It will enable Invacare to improve product designs based on your input and needs.
Register ONLINE at www.invacare.com
- or -
Complete and mail the form on the next page
Any registration information you submit will be used by Invacare Corporation only, and
protected as required by applicable laws and regulations.
Part No 1122134 6 Compass™SPT™
PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM
Register ONLINE at www.invacare.com - or -
Complete and mail this form
Name _______________________________________________________________
Address _____________________________________________________________
City ___________________State/Province __________
Zip/Postal Code ________
Email ___________________________________ Phone No. _________________
Invacare Model No. ______________________ Serial No. __________________
Purchased From _________________________Date of Purchase:___________
1. Method of purchase: (check all that apply)
❏ Medicare ❏ Insurance ❏ Medicaid ❏ Other __________________________
2. This product was purchased for use by: (check one)
❏ Self ❏ Parent ❏ Spouse ❏ Other
3. Product was purchased for use at:
❏ Home ❏ Facility ❏ Other
4. I purchased an Invacare product because:
Cut Along Line
❏ Price ❏ Features (list features) _________________________________________
5. Who referred you to Invacare products? (check all that apply)
❏ Doctor ❏ Therapist ❏ Friend ❏ Relative ❏ Dealer/Provider ❏ Other_________
❏ Advertisement (circle one): TV, Radio, Magazine, Newspaper ❏ No Referral_____
6. What additional features, if any, would you like to see on this product?
7. Would you like information sent to you about Invacare products that may be available for a
__________________________________________________________________________
particular medical condition? ❏ Yes ❏ No
If yes, please list any condition(s) here and we will send you information by email and/or mail about
any available Invacare products that may help treat, care for or manage such condition(s):
__________________________________________________________________________
Fold
here
Fold
here
8. Would you like to receive updated information via email or regular mail about the Invacare
home medical products sold by Invacare's dealers? ❏ Yes ❏ No
9. What would you like to see on the Invacare website?
__________________________________________________________________________
10. Would you like to be part of future online surveys for Invacare products? ❏ Yes ❏ No
11. User's Year of birth: ______________________________________________________
If at any time you wish not to receive future mailings from us, please contact us at Invacare Corporation,
CRM Department, 39400 Taylor Parkway, Elyria, OH 44035, or fax to 877-619-7996 and we will remove
you from our mailing list.
To find more information about our products, visit www.invacare.com.
Part No 1122134 7 Compass™SPT™
Fold
here
Fold
here
Cut Along Line
Invacare Product Registration Form
Please Seal with
Tape Before Mailing
Compass™SPT™ 8 Part No 1122134
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
WARNING
CAUTION
Danger indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
Warning indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
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.
TIE DOWN RESTRAINTS AND SEAT RESTRAINTS
Invacare recommends that wheelchair users 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.
SEAT POSITIONING STRAP
ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. Inasmuch as the seat positioning strap is
an option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the seat positioning
strap), Invacare strongly recommends ordering the seat positioning strap as an
additional safeguard for the wheelchair user. 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, seat
positioning strap MUST be replaced IMMEDIATELY.
With regards to restraints - seat/chest positioning straps - it is the obligation of the
DME dealer, therapists and other healthcare professionals to determine if a
seat/chest positioning strap is required to ensure the safe operation of this
equipment by the user. SERIOUS INJURY CAN OCCUR IN THE EVENT OF A
FALL FROM A WHEELCHAIR.
Part No 1122134 9 Compass™SPT™
SPECIAL NOTES
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.
TO HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS/ASSISTANTS:
The Invacare Compass SPT wheelchair MUST be operated by a healthcare
professional or assistant when in any tilt position.
Compass™SPT™ 10 Part No 1122134
LABEL LOCATIONS
LABEL LOCATIONS
! WARNING
1085306
WARNING
DO NOT OPERATE WITHOUT
THE ANTI-TIP TUBES
REV. 5/98
INSTALLED.
Refer to Owner’s Manual BEFORE
adjusting axle mounting plate.
P/N 60106X144
Detent balls should extend beyond the diameter
WARNING
of the axle bushing for a positive lock. Keep
detent balls clean.
REV.10/98 1026960
Part No 1122134 11 Compass™SPT™
FEATURES
Adjustable Angle/
Folding Back
12, 20, 22, 24-Inch
FEATURES
Adjustable Arms
(Optional)
Wheels
Anti-Tippers
Quick-Release
Axles
Adjustable Seat
Depth
6, 8-Inch Caster/
Fork Assembly
Swingaway
Footrest
Compass™SPT™ 12 Part No 1122134
TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS
TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS
INVACARE COMPASS SPT
*OVERALL WIDTH: 27½ inches (seat width + 9½-inches)
*OVERALL DEPTH: 33 to 39 inches
OVERALL HEIGHT: 39½ inches (seat-to-floor + back cane height)
ANTI-TIPPERS: Standard
FOOTREST: Swing-Away Footrest
Lift-off Footrest (Optional)
Elevating Swing-Away Footrest (Optional)
Articulating Swing-Away Footrest (Optional)
ARMRESTS
DUAL POINT ARMS:
LOCKING CANTILEVER ARMS:
T-ARMS:
SEAT PAN: Optional
BACK: Fixed - 20 or 24 inches
Desk or Full Length, Adjustable or Fixed Height
Desk or Full Length
Desk or Full Length, Adjustable Height
BACK ANGLE ADJUSTMENT: 90° to 120° (10° increments)
REAR AXLE: Quick-Release or Fixed
REAR WHEELS: 12, 20, 22, and 24-inch Composite
HANDRIMS: Aluminum, Steel, Plastic Coated or Projections
CASTER SIZE: 8-inch w/ Precision Sealed Bearings
6 x 1-inch w/ Precision Sealed Bearings
6 x 2-inch w/ Precision Sealed Bearings
SEAT WIDTH: 4 to 22 inches
SEAT DEPTH: 15 to 22 inches
WHEEL LOCKS: Push-to-Lock, Pull-to-Lock
TILT-IN-SPACE: Dual Cable Trigger Mechanism
15 to 20-inch deep wheelchairs - 45° of Tilt
21 to 22-inch deep wheelchairs - 35° of Tilt
FRAME: Steel
WEIGHT LIMITATION: 250 pounds
*NOTE: 18-inch x 18-inch seating, no footrests, no anti-tippers, in reverse configuration, with
22-inch wheels.
Part No 1122134 13 Compass™SPT™
SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
Information for Healthcare Professionals/Assistants
The Invacare Compass SPT wheelchair MUST be operated by a healthcare professional or
assistant when in any tilt position.
Stability
The back height, seat depth, back angle, seating system, tilt angle, seat height,
size/position of the rear wheels, size/position of the front casters, as well as the user
condition directly relate to the stability of the wheelchair. Any change to one or any
combination of the eleven may cause the wheelchair to decrease in stability. These
adjustments MUST be performed by a qualified technician.
NOTE: When changes
to the left hand column
occur, follow across the
chart and refer to the X
procedure to maintain
the proper stability,
SEAT DEPTH
safety and handling of
BACK HEIGHT
BACK ANGLE
the wheelchair.
BACK HEIGHT • XXXXXXXXN/AN/AN/AN/A
SEAT DEPTH X • X X N/A X X X X N/A N/A N/A X
BACK ANGLE X X • X X X X X X N/A N/A N/A X
SEATING SYSTEM XXX • XXXXXXN/AN/AX
TILT ANGLE N/A N/A X N/A • N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A X
CASTER SIZE X N/A X N/A N/A • X X X N/A X X X
CASTER POSITION X N/A X N/A N/A X • X X N/A X X X
WHEEL SIZE X N/A X N/A N/A X X • X N/A X X X
WHEEL POSITION X N/A X N/A N/A X X X • N/A X X X
USER CONDITION XXXXXXXXX •N/AN/AN/A
SEAT HEIGHT XN/AXXXXXXXN/AXXX
TILT ANGLE
CASTER SIZE
SEATING SYSTEM
WHEEL SIZE
CASTER POSITION
WHEEL POSITION
ANTI-TIPPERS
WHEEL LOCKS
USER CONDITION
LOCKING COLLAR
ALWAYS make sure that the wheelchair is stable using the tilt-in-space.
Wheels may have to be repositioned depending on the degree of tilt-in-space required.
ALWAYS ensure stability before using maximum amount of tilt-in-space (45°
for
15-20-inch seat depths and 35° for 20 and 21-inch seat depths). Test wheelchair before it is
occupied by the end user to ensure safety.
Changing the seat depth of the wheelchair changes the stability of the wheelchair. To
maintain stability, reposition the wheels before using the wheelchair.
Compass™SPT™ 14 Part No 1122134
SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
To maintain the stability of the wheelchair when moving the wheels to any position, the
amount of tilt MUST be limited by adjusting the limit stops on the gas cylinders to prevent
the wheelchair from tipping onto the anti-tippers.
Operating Information
Unless otherwise noted, all service and adjustments should be performed while the
wheelchair is unoccupied.
To determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice bending, reaching and
transferring activities in the presence of a qualified healthcare professional before
attempting active use of the wheelchair.
The necessary back angle (90°, 99°, 108° or 120°) MUST be selected before repositioning
the wheels and adjusting the limit stops on the gas cylinders.
Both gas cylinders MUST be operational before using the wheelchair. DO NOT operate
the tilt-in-space if only one of the gas cylinders is operational.
DO NOT operate the tilt-in-space if the trigger release levers and cables are not properly
adjusted to ensure that the tilt-in-space is locked in place when engaged.
ALWAYS verify the userʹs hand position prior to activating the tilt-in-space feature. DO
NOT remove the side shrouds (see below) which cover the tilt mechanism. Failure to
observe this warning can result in serious injury.
Side Shroud for Wheelchairs
with Dual Point Arms
Side Shroud for
Wheelchairs with T-Arms
ALWAYS wear your seat/chest positioning strap. Inasmuch as the seat/chest positioning
strap is an option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the seat/chest
positioning strap), Invacare strongly recommends ordering the seat/chest positioning
strap as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user.
ALWAYS check foam grips for looseness before using the wheelchair. If loose, contact a
qualified technician for instructions.
DO NOT traverse, climb or go down ramps or slopes greater than 9°.
NEVER leave the occupied wheelchair unattended at any time, especially on an incline.
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.
DO NOT lean over the top of the back upholstery/seating system. This will change your
center of gravity and may cause you to tip over.
DO NOT shift your weight or sitting position toward direction you are reaching as
wheelchair may tip over.
Part No 1122134 15 Compass™SPT™
SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
Wheel locks are not brakes. DO NOT attempt to stop a moving wheelchair with the wheel
locks.
Rear Wheel Configuration Only - DO NOT tip the wheelchair onto the wheels without
assistance.
Front Wheel Configuration Only - DO NOT tip the wheelchair casters when using the
front wheel configuration. Otherwise, injury or damage may occur.
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. When transferring to and from the wheelchair, always engage both
wheel locks.
DO NOT use wheelchair unless the tires have 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. Recommended tire pressure is listed on the side wall of the tire.
DO NOT use any parts, accessories, or adapters other than those authorized by Invacare.
Otherwise, the warranty is void.
DO NOT attempt to lift a 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.
DO NOT use the spreader bar for lifting or transporting the wheelchair. DO NOT use the
spreader bar as a weight bearing support.
DO NOT stand on the frame of the wheelchair.
Anti-tippers MUST be attached at all times.
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.
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
Invacare Compass SPT has a weight limit of 250 lbs.
Compass™SPT™ 16 Part No 1122134
SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING
SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING
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/chest positioning strap. Inasmuch as the seat/chest
positioning strap is an option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the
seat/chest positioning strap), Invacare strongly recommends ordering the seat/chest
positioning strap as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user.
Anti-tippers MUST be attached at all times.
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.
Virtually all activities which involve movement in the wheelchair have an effect on the
center of gravity. Invacare recommends using seat/chest positioning straps for additional
safety while involved in activities that shift your weight.
DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than the length of the armrests.
Make sure the casters are pointing in the forward position whenever you lean forward.
This can be achieved by advancing the wheelchair and then reversing it in a straight line.
The Invacare Compass SPT wheelchair should be operated by an assistant when the
wheelchair is in any tilted position.
Part No 1122134 17 Compass™SPT™
SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING
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.
The back height, seat depth, back angle, seating system, tilt angle, seat height,
size/position of the wheels, size/position of the casters, as well as the user condition
directly relate to the stability of the wheelchair. Any change to one or any combination of the eleven may cause the wheelchair to decrease in stability. These adjustments MUST be performed ONLY by a qualified technician.
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to
FIGURE 2.1.
Many activities require the wheelchair
owner to reach, bend and transfer in and
out of the wheelchair. These movements
will cause a change to the normal balance,
the center of gravity and the 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.
UNOCCUPIED
NOTE: Rear wheel configuration shown.
FIGURE 2.1 Stability and Balance
Center of
Gravity
OCCUPIED
Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning, or bending
forward, it is important to use the casters as a tool to maintain stability and balance.
Coping With Everyday Obstacles
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 tipping the
wheelchair or traversing curbs, or other impediments.
Compass™SPT™ 18 Part No 1122134
SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING
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.
DO NOT use the spreader bar for lifting or transporting the wheelchair. DO NOT
use the spreader bar as a weight bearing support.
Also, be aware of detachable parts such as armrests or legrests. These must NEVER be
used to move the wheelchair or as 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.
Reaching, Leaning and Bending - Forward
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.
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.2.
Position the casters so that they are extended as far forward as possible and engage wheel
locks.
FIGURE 2.2 Reaching, Leaning and Bending - Forward
Part No 1122134 19 Compass™SPT™
SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING
Reaching and Leaning - Backwards
WARNING
DO NOT lean over the top of the back upholstery. This will change your center of
gravity and may cause you to tip over.
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.3.
Position wheelchair as close as possible to the desired object. Point casters forward to
create the longest possible wheelbase. Reach back only as far as your arm will extend
without changing your sitting position.
FIGURE 2.3 Reaching and Leaning - Backwards
Tipping - Rear Wheel Configuration Only
WARNING
DO NOT tip the wheelchair without assistance.
When tipping the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp the back of the wheelchair on a
non-removable (non-detachable) part. Inform the wheelchair occupant before tipping the
wheelchair and remind him/her to lean back. Be sure the occupant’s feet and hands are
clear of all wheels and/or pinch points.
After mastering the techniques of tipping the wheelchair, use one of the following
methods to tackle curbs, short stairs, etc.
Tipping - Curbs: Method 1 - Wheelchair with Step Tubes
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.4 on page 21.
Place foot on the step tube and begin to tilt the wheelchair toward you. Apply a
continuous downward motion until the balance point is achieved and the casters clear the
curb. At this point, the assistant will feel a difference in the weight distribution.
Compass™SPT™ 20 Part No 1122134
Loading...