The seating system will be delivered already set up to the measurements recorded
during the assessment. If measurements were not provided when the seat was
ordered, the chair should be pre-set by the clinician at the seating clinic before the
user is positioned in it.
Your seating system should be already set up and adjusted by a qualified
prescriber. Clinical suitability and stability of the seating system should also be
checked at delivery.
If the wheelbase is a tilting type, you may find it useful to tilt the base when
positioning the user in the seating system. This will help to position the pelvis back
against the backrest with the help of gravity.
With the user in the seat, it is a good idea to check the supportive components in a
methodical way. Start by ensuring the pelvis is adequately supported, and then
work towards the feet. Afterwards, work upwards from the pelvis. We suggest this
order:
1. Pelvis back against back cushion and pelvic strap in place
2. Knees in position
3. Feet in position on the footrest and footstraps attached
4. Trunk harness in place if used
5. Head in position on the headrest.
If you had tilted the seat for the transfer, reduce the tilt to the appropriate
position.
It is important to check the seat, particularly the adjustable parts, during the first
few weeks of use. Most importantly, check the effect the seat has when it is first
delivered. Tell the fitting team if you have any cause for concern, e.g. if the person
has very red knees or a sore bottom, or if they do not even want to use the seat.
The seat will be providing a new posture for the user to learn. Try to avoid
introducing other new things at the same time! Do not let them sit in it for too long
when they are just getting used to it. Check with your therapist if you are unsure
how long to expect them to use the seat at first.
Small adjustments, by the seating team, may be necessary during the first few
weeks or so, as the user becomes accustomed to the seat.
After initial set-up adjustments are made, you should check the seat daily for fabric
wear and to check all the parts are operating to a good standard.
