Invacare GHS350 Owners Manual - Page 9

SECTION 1-GENERAL GUIDELINES DO NOT alter slings. Be sure to check the sling attachments each time the sling is removed and replaced, to ensure that it is properly attached before the patient is removed from a stationary object (bed, chair or commode). If the patient is in a wheelchair, secure the wheel locks in place to prevent the chair from moving forwards or backwards. When connecting slings equipped with color coded straps to the patient lift, the shortest of the straps MUST be at the back of the patient for support. Using long section will leave little or no support for the patient's back. The loops of the sling are color coded and can be used to place the patient in various positions. The colors make it easy to connect both sides of the sling equally. Make sure that there is sufficient head support when lifting a patient. Use an Invacare sling that is recommended by the individual's doctor, nurse or medical assistant for the comfort and safety of the individual being lifted. Operating the Lift Make sure there is an audible click when mounting battery on the battery charger to confirm proper mounting. Otherwise, injury or damage may occur. Use the handles to push or pull the patient. Lifting the Patient Before positioning the legs of the stand up lift around the patient, make sure that the patient's feet are out of the way of the foot plate, otherwise injury may occur. Adjustments for safety and comfort should be made before moving the patient. Patient's arms should be outside of the sling straps. Before lifting a patient from a stationary object (wheelchair, commode or bed), slightly raise the patient off of the stationary object and check that all sling attachments are secure. If any attachment is not correct, lower the patient and correct the problem, then raise the patient and check again. During transfer, with the patient suspended in a sling attached to the lift, DO NOT roll caster base over objects such as carpet, raised carpet bindings, door frames, or any uneven surfaces or obstacles that would create an imbalance of the patient lift to tip over. Use the steering handle on the mast at ALL times to push or pull the patient lift. Invacare recommends locking the rear swivel casters ONLY when positioning or removing the sling (stand assist or transfer) from around the patient. Transferring the Patient Before transferring, check that the product's weight capacity can withstand the patient's weight. Wheelchair wheel locks MUST be in a locked position before lowering the patient into the wheelchair for transport. Performing Maintenance Refer to Maintenance on page 25 for a maintenance schedule and procedures. Regular maintenance of lifts and accessories is necessary to ensure proper operation. After the first 12 months of operation, inspect all pivot points and fasteners for wear. If the metal is worn, the parts MUST be replaced. Make this inspection every six months thereafter. DO NOT overtighten mounting hardware. This will damage mounting brackets. Casters and axle bolts require inspections every six months to check for tightness and wear. If using the lift in the area of a shower or bath, ensure the lift is wiped clean of any moisture after use. Do not store the lift in a damp area or in a damp condition. Periodically inspect all components for signs of corrosion and replace those that are corroded or damaged. Part No 1148115 9 Get-U-Up™ Lift