Wheelchair and Seating Series: Sessions 4 and 5

Session 4: Assessing Posture and Prescribing Seating (Level 1)

Session 5: Assessing Posture and Prescribing Seating (Level 2)

(Formerly titled “Why Fit Matters”)

These sessions are the 4th and 5th in a series related to the prescription of Manual Wheelchairs, Powered Mobility Aids and postural support. Sessions 4 and 5 are specific to assessing complex posture and determining solutions, and there is assumed knowledge about basic assessment, measurement and prescription. For this reason, attendance to the 1st session in the series Wheelchair and Seating Series – Session 1: Prescribing and Adjusting Manual Wheelchairs is a pre-requisite.

Recognition of Prior Learning may be given to those who can demonstrate sufficient clinical experience and knowledge in this subject, using the Recognition of Prior Learning Wheelchair Training Series Session 1 form.

It is an expectation that all participants who prescribe for the Equipment Program will have attended the Equipment Program and DES Orientation, and have a working knowledge of the Program. Information about policy and procedures will not be covered in this session.

Session 4 will include:

  • Anatomy refresher
  • Assessing fit and posture in current seating system
  • Identifying common postural asymmetries and understanding the effect they have on seating
  • MAT evaluation (hands on sitting and supine postural assessment)
  • Taking measurements that matter
  • Cushion and backrest modifications that can be used to address common basic postural asymmetries

Session 5 will include:

  • Identifying complex postural asymmetries and understanding their effect on sitting posture
  • Practical focus on options for seating to improve or accommodate complex postures but also look at the mods that can be done to the chair itself to assist in managing these postures.
  • Look at the backrest and cushions options for the higher complex end of the market.
  • Where possible, a client will be invited to attend the sessions to support the learning process via actual client scenario and assessment.

Session does not include:

  • Equipment Program Policy and Procedures
  • Cushion selection
  • Prescription of Manual and Powered Wheelchairs
  • Information on taking basic measurements

Session relevant to:

  • Occupational Therapists
  • Physiotherapists
  • Students of the above disciplines

To apply for registration to attend these sessions please follow instructions on the “RegisteringforEquipment Program Training” document.

Domiciliary Equipment Service – Wheelchair and Seating Series – Sessions 4 and 5 | December 20151