SHONAQUIP Madiba2go User manual

Cape Town Head Oce
Tel / Fax: +27 21 797 8239
[email protected]g.za www.ShonaquipSE.org.za
Warranty
As part of its commitment to clients for life, Shonaquip will make every attempt
to support its products throughout the life of the product given normal use and
reasonable wear and tear. Warranty is provided on all products for varying periods
(from 6 months for batteries to 1 year for Buggies, Posture and Active Wheelchairs).
Please contact client services for further details.
Date of receipt of the Madiba2Go Active:
____________/__________/__________ (yyyy/mm/dd)
This booklet was designed by The Shonaquip Social Enterprise for use in training. The use of modied text
any queries or feedback regarding the booklet or its use.
Date of publication: March 2015
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Your guide to handling and care
Know your Madiba2Go Active
SHONAQUIP
SOCIAL ENTERPRISE
Enabling inclusion

Contents
Contact us
Parts of your Madiba2Go Active
How is the new Madiba2Go Active dierent from the old one?
How do I transport the Madiba2Go Active?
How do I seat the user?
How do I handle and adjust the Madiba2Go Active? (Carer)
How do I handle and adjust the Madiba2Go Active? (Therapist)
How do I use the tilt in space?
How do I use the posture tray?
How should the Madiba2Go Active be used in daily activities?
How do I use the Madiba2Go Active outdoors?
Health and safety for the user
How do I care for my back by safe lifting?
How do I clean the Madiba2Go Active?
How and when do I service the Madiba2Go Active?
Has your Madiba2Go Active been changed in any way?
Has your posture tray been changed in any way?
Follow up records
Warranty
Contact us
Cape Town Head Oce
Your therapist
Phone number
Other useful numbers
Name How they can help? Contact number
+27 21 797 8239

1
6
7
8
9
10
11
Parts of your Madiba2Go Active
1 side support
2 seat cushion with abduction block
3 push rims
4 footbox
5 front castor
6 headrest
7 back padding
8 posture tray
9 footbox hanger
10 brake
11 cambered wheels
2
3
4
5
12
12 push handle
13 headrest extension
14 posture tray bracket
15 recline adjustment
16 quick release wheel
17 side support
18 seat
19 pelvic strap
20 tilt in space adjustment
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20

21
21 headrest
22 headrest extension
23 push handle
24 backrest & side support adjustments
25 silver tab (dismantling)
26 anti-tips
22
23
24
25
26
How is the new Madiba2Go Active
dierent from the old one?
The new Madiba2Go Active combines the same postural support as a
Madiba2go buggy (instead of the original Madiba buggy). The base
(replacing the original base) is the same as the new Sully active chair
which enables the user to push the device independently.
Size range: new Madiba2Go Active includes baby, small and medium
sizes.
It is less restrictive and bulky for the user and less bulky for the carer.
There is more of the child visible, less of the device.
There is less need for multiple cushions and modications of cushions
due to adjustability.
It can be dismantled for convenient transport and storage.
The seat to back angle can be opened up (by a therapist) to allow
for recline.
The backrest height and seat length can be adjusted.
Trunk side supports can be height and width adjusted.
Upholstery includes waterproof cover for seat cushion and
lightweight gauze covers on sides (triex).
A headrest is included at all times.
The Madiba2Go Active can be customised to offer more postural
support if necessary e.g. using straps, headrests.
Pelvic straps come standard with the device: a thinner strap for
the baby and small Madiba2Go Active with a thicker strap for the
medium Madiba2Go Active.

The Madiba2Go Active splits into parts and can then be easily stacked
for storage and transport. The seat (buck) can be slid off the base
frame. The headrest and posture tray will usually remain on the buck
(back system/seat) during transport. If necessary, remove the headrest
using the allen key and the footbox from the frame.
Steps to dismantle the Madiba2Go Active
1. Apply both brakes.
2. Remove posture tray from the brackets with both hands pulling
it out forwards together.
3. Remove the seat cushion from the seat.
4. Slide the seat forward by rst lifting the silver metal buck release
tab behind the buck (see opposite picture). As you lift this tab, hold
onto the front edge of the buck seat (at the same time) and slide the
buck forwards and off the base frame.
How do I transport the Madiba2Go
Active?
Madiba2Go Active dismantled and ready for transport.
5. Fold frame by pulling on lanyard (cord) behind seat which releases
a pin; push handle upwards/forwards to fold.
6. Remove footbox if required.
7. Lift the frame and seat into the boot/van.
8. Remember to pack anything that has been taken off
e.g. seat cushion and posture tray.
silver tab (dismantling)
anti-tip adjustment
lanyard

NB
The shelf in the cushion should be cut by the therapist during tting.
1. Make sure all the covers are in place on the Madiba2Go Active.
2. Put both the brakes on.
3. Make sure the prepared seat cushion is placed rmly against the
backrest of the Madiba2Go Active with the abduction block in front.
The soft side of the cushion is on top and the shelf is towards the back
of the Madiba2Go Active.
4. Transfer the Madiba2Go Active user into the seat so that his/her
bottom is placed right against the backrest. You may need an extra
helper if the user is difcult or heavy to lift or move. Encourage the user
who has some strength to help in any way possible during the transfer
to and from the Madiba2Go Active.
5. If the Madiba2Go Active user is sitting skew or falling to the side,
straighten him/her up as best you can.
6. Check the user’s thighs are fully supported on the seat cushion.
7. Fasten the pelvic strap rmly in place.
8. Put on the posture tray (slide both sides together) at the height
marked by the therapist; tighten in position. The posture tray should
be set at the correct height for good arm support when using the
surface for activity. The user should not have his/her shoulders
hunched up or be slouching in the Madiba2Go Active.
9. If the feet are dangling or falling off the footbox, adjust the height
of the footbox (spanner) to support both feet at on the base of the
footbox, toes facing forwards.
10. If the therapist has provided you with any extra foam inserts,
place these in the position shown to you.
How do I seat the user?
11. Adjust the headrest and angle of extension (attached at back of
buck) so that it supports the user’s head comfortably, keeping his neck
in the upright position so that his eyes are able to look straight ahead.
Use a no 10 spanner and a 4mm allen key.
12. Change tilt of the Madiba2Go Active into the position required
ONLY if this is different from the normal tilt position when propelling.
If the tilt position has been changed, the brakes may also need to be
re-positioned. This should be done while the user is out of the
Madiba2Go Active and the buck removed from the base.
13. Test that the user is able to reach the back wheels and brakes
and to push the Madiba2Go Active in a comfortable position, keeping
the posture tray remains in position.
14. Check that the anti-tips are in the desired position.

How do I handle and adjust the
Madiba2Go Active? (Carer)
Apply and adjust brakes:
These are pushed forwards (to apply) and backwards (to release).
Adjust brakes with a no 10 spanner e.g. if the tilt position of the
Madiba2Go Active has been changed which may affect the working of
the brakes. The brake adjustment can only be done once the buck has
been removed. The front bolt can be loosened using a 10mm spanner
and a 4 mm allen key. The rear bolt can be loosened with the use of a
spanner (10mm).
Rear wheels:
These can be easily removed from the frame by pressing the quick
release button.
Anti-tips:
There are 3 settings for the position of the anti-tips. Press clip button
to change position These can be removed if necessary by pushing
down the button and sliding the anti-tips out of position. When in the
‘down’ position they help make the Madiba2Go Active safer for the young
active user. The anti-tips can be stowed away by swapping them around
to face forwards.
Adjust push handle position:
The Madiba2Go Active is intended for the active user who can push the
Madiba2Go Active independently. The position of the push handle can
be moved into a less/more upright position. However this should not
need to be changed often once it has been set in the correct position for
the carer by the therapist. A 5mm allen key and 13mm spanner will be
needed to do this. The height of the push handle is not adjustable.
Adjust tilt in space:
To adjust, turn the knob on the frame underneath the seat and tilt the
user gently backwards. Tighten in position by turning the hand knob
rmly. You will need to loosen the bolt on both sides before setting in
the nal position with the catch in place in the correct hole. Make sure
no pieces work loose when you are adjusting the tilt position.
The frame can tilt back 5-20 degrees. Always warn the user if you are
going to adjust the tilt backwards. Tighten in position. It may be easier
to adjust the tilt position while the user is out of the device.
Tilt in space with holes for adjustment.

Change position and height of the footbox:
The footbox height can be changed to keep the user’s feet at and
fully supported on the footbox. Feet should not be dangling above
the footbox or sliding forwards off the footbox. You will need to use
a no 10 spanner to change the position of the footbox (adjust from
behind). The 2 nuts allow the footbox to slide up and down once
loosened.
The position of the footbox can also be changed (moved further in/
out) as required by lifting the buck off the base frame, holding both
sides of the footbox together, lifting out of position and replacing in
position required.
brake adjustment (2 bolts)
footbox hanger placement (holes)
Buck removed from base frame.
Attach and remove the posture tray:
The posture tray should always be tted when the Madiba2Go Active
is in use. The tray arms are slotted into the brackets towards the back
of the buck of the Madiba2Go Active as shown. The tray has been
specially shaped to help the user to reach the wheels comfortably.
The central part of the posture tray can be slid forwards or backwards
as is necessary by adjusting underneath the tray with 10mm spanners
and a 4mm allen key. The height of the posture tray can be adjusted
at the back bracket (2 holes).
The user’s body should always be well supported but obviously the
user’s arms will be pushing the Madiba2Go Active so will only be
positioned on the tray when he/she is being pushed or doing activities
using the tray. Use the mark made by the seating therapist as a guide
to where the posture tray should be tightened.

It is recommended that the therapist ONLY make the following
adjustments should the needs of the child change as he grows and
develops. Tighten the nuts if they work loose.
Backrest height and side supports:
Adjust the backrest and side supports by adjusting the nuts with your
10mm spanners on the back of the buck as necessary (therapist).
It may be necessary to have an assistant support the child in an
upright position as you adjust the height.
How do I handle and adjust the
Madiba2Go Active? (Therapist)*
adjustments for headrest
and extension
adjustments for backrest
and side supports (four)
* This is a brief guide only. For additional information on tting and adjustment of the Madiba2Go
The side supports can be raised upwards/downwards and
inwards/outwards. This can be changed by adjusting the nuts on the
side nearest the lateral and adjusting the position of the side support
to support the user snugly. The trunk side supports should support the
user but not be too tight to prevent movement altogether. The trunk side
supports should not be causing pressure under the child’s arms and
should provide enough support to block the user’s pelvis and stop it
from shifting.
Adjust position of headrest:
The headrest is attached onto the backrest of the Madiba2Go Active and
can be moved/angled upwards or downwards, forwards or backwards.
This is done so that the user’s head is supported with the neck upright
and with eyes facing forward. Use a no 10 spanner and a 4mm allen- key.
The head should be comfortably supported at the base of the skull.
adjustments for headrest
and extension

Back to seat angle:
The back seat angle can recline from 0-40 degrees. Any change to
the back to seat angle (recline) may inuence the ability of the user
to reach the brakes for propelling, so they may need to have position
changed (on seat plate under buck - see opposite picture). The buck
will need to be removed from the base to do this.
Seat length:
The seat length can be adjusted by 100mm. The covers will need to
be removed and the buck taken off the base frame to do this. This is
done by adjusting two nuts underneath the seat and extending the
seat to the appropriate length and securing again once adjusted.
(size 10 spanner)
seat length adjustments
bottom of buck
The purpose of the adjustable tilt is to encourage good postures and
to stop the user from slumping in the Madiba2Go Active when tired. It
is a useful position for rest. Be sure to set tilt for the best position for
user to push him/herself. It is usually not necessary to change the tilt
often. If it is changed, the brakes may need to be adjusted to be able to
be used when user is pushing the Madiba2Go Active. (Refer to brake
adjustment points shown on base frame picture a few pages back.)
How do I use the tilt in space?

Keep the posture tray at the correct height marked by the therapist.
The posture tray helps to support the user in a good posture during
function. It has a central part which can be slid forwards or
backwards to meet the user’s needs. The position of the central
part of the posture tray can be adjusted using a 4mm allen key
(4 bolts underneath the posture tray). (Refer to the posture tray
bracket on the ‘Parts of your Madiba2Go Active’ pages)
It offers a useful play surface for a child or a working surface for
feeding, reading and interaction. It also helps the user to sit upright
while working or playing.
If the Madiba2Go Active is tilted back, the posture tray will no longer
be a at surface so you may need to add a towel/wedge placed onto
the tray to make it level again. You may also need to adjust the brakes.
The posture tray should be used at all times when user is in the
Madiba2Go Active. The posture tray has been specially shaped for
this purpose to allow the user to reach the rear wheels.
The posture tray can be replaced with a custom made activity tray
(with a lip or larger) if needed. However, a different tray may
interfere with the user’s ability to push the Madiba2Go Active.
Please contact Shonaquip for options and costs.
Additional elbow padding and forearm cuffs can be ordered to
provide extra padding if necessary for the user’s comfort.
How do I use the posture tray? How should the Madiba2Go Active
be used in daily activities?
The Madiba2Go Active has cambered rear wheels to help the user to
propel him/herself independently. It is important that the child can push
the Madiba2Go Active comfortably and safely and that brakes can be
handled. The push handle enables the carer to push the user at times
if necessary.
Using the posture tray will enable the user to do activities more
comfortably and should make helping easier for the carer. The
Madiba2Go Active, together with the posture tray, provide a stable
position and secure mobility for a child who can’t keep good postures
and often provides a better position for learning and play activities in
the classroom or at home.
Even if a child is not able to physically participate in some of the activities
of peers, always look for ways to include the user in other ways in the
group. Speak to your therapist about other positions you can place the
user in when out of the Madiba2Go Active to make sure that good
postures are maintained e.g. use a side positioned or standing frame.

How do I use the Madiba2Go Active
outdoors?
The Madiba2Go Active is light and offers correct postural support for
the user while at the same time allowing the user to propel independently.
The camber of the rear wheels makes it less likely to tip sideways.
Anti-tips increase safety in the Madiba2Go Active.
The long wheelbase allows the user with basic mobility skills to go over
small obstacles and uneven ground. The solid rear wheels are tough
and are also well suited to outdoor use.
Although there is a xed push handle for the carer, the user should
be encouraged to push the Madiba2Go Active independently as much
as possible. The carer should only assist the child if using the
Madiba2Go Active in places where there is difcult terrain, or when
user is too tired or feels unsafe to push him/herself.
Going over rough ground:
Stow away or adjust the anti-tips in the top position (3 positions) and
tip the Madiba2Go Active onto its rear wheels to go up a curb or steps
and pushed over rough, wet or uneven ground. It can also be pulled
behind you if the ground is soft e.g. sandy.
Going up or down steep slopes:
When coming down a steep slope, it is safer to have an extra helper
holding onto the front of the Madiba2Go Active (footbox frame). When
going up a slope, push the Madiba2Go Active with 2 hands in front of
you or go up the slope backwards as you pull it up the slope.
Going up or down a curb:
The carer may like to go down the step or curb backwards.
Going up or down steps:
Always tell the user what you are planning to do before moving him/
her. Tilt the Madiba2Go Active onto the back wheels to go up a curb
or a step forwards. If the user needs to go up more than one step, it is
best to pull it up with the back wheels going up rst. Have one person
hold the frame of the footbox hanger while the other holds the push
handle. Ensure that the pelvic strap is securely in place. If there are
more than a few steps, the user should be taken out of the Madiba2Go
Active while it is being moved. It will not be necessary to remove the
anti-tips while the Madiba2Go Active is lifted.
Health and safety for the user
Sitting upright in the Madiba2Go Active is good for the user and may
improve his/her digestion, bowel/bladder function and breathing. It
also helps the Madiba2Go Active user to be more independent and
mobile, to take part in activities and to interact with others more easily.
Safety tips:
Never sit or stand on the footbox as this may cause it to break or
tilt backwards which may cause injury to the user.
Siblings and other children should be discouraged from standing
anywhere on the device as this may weaken or add wear to the frame.
Always apply brakes when lifting the user to and from the
Madiba2Go Active.
A growing child should have a review done at least every 2 – 3
months to make sure the Madiba2Go Active is still tting well and is
safe to use.
The seat cushion should not be changed in any way. If it becomes
worn, damaged or misplaced, contact your service provider to
replace it. Avoid using any other pillow, cushions or blankets.
Never use the Madiba2Go Active without the correct seat cushion
prepared by the tting therapist.

The skin should be checked daily by the carer. Pressure sores can
be a very serious problem for the user who cannot feel but there
are many ways to prevent and manage them:
- Use a mirror to check his/her body daily for any signs of pressure
marks especially on the backbone, shoulder blades and buttocks
area. Look for any pressure marks caused by poor-tting shoes.
Check there are no marks caused by pressing against wheelchair
parts or from bumps caused during transfers, play or a fall.
- If there is any redness/dark spots, the child must stay off the
pressure area until the skin returns to normal. If there is an open
sore, it will need cleaning, dressing and monitoring by a trained
health worker.
- It is always frustrating for a young user not to be able to use
his/her wheelchair so pressure relief methods are very important
to prevent pressure sores. The user should be shown how to lean
right forwards in the wheelchair or towards the sides of the
wheelchair to relieve pressure. He/she will need to be reminded
to do this often during the day until it becomes a routine.
The wheelchair can also be tilted back to relieve pressure for a
short while.
- Encourage the user’s awareness about skin care as early as
possible. Photos of pressure sores may help the user to better
understand what a pressure sore is.
- Suitable clothing and shoes that t well can help to prevent
pressure sores.
- When the user gets wet or soiled, wash and dry their skin, as
well as the cushion of the wheelchair, as soon as possible. It is
useful to have an extra wheelchair cushion/cover if the user is
often wet.
How long should the Madiba2Go Active user spend in the chair?
New user:
You may consider limiting the time in the Madiba2Go Active in the
beginning; gradually increasing the time spent in it as the user becomes
used to being in the Madiba2Go Active. The Madiba2Go Active is an
active chair. It is usual after a while to spend 8-10 hours in the
Madiba2Go Active during the day as long as the user has no problems
with pressure marks/sores.
Make sure the user is sitting straight and upright in the Madiba2Go
Active. If the user sits skew, there is a risk of pressure sores and the
development of deformities over time. There are a range of adjustments
to keep the correct posture of the user as he/she grows. Remember
the posture tray is helping to provide extra support during activities
although it may feel easier for the user to push the Madiba2Go Active
when it is removed (check with your therapist when to use/remove it).
Always make sure the pelvic strap is fastened securely.
Use the anti-tips to increase the safety for the user and to prevent a fall
backwards.
Teach other children in contact with the user how they can help him/her
by handling the Madiba2Go Active safely so that they don’t play with it
roughly or in ways that could damage it.
IMPORTANT: The following signs may mean that the user needs to
change position or come out of the Madiba2Go Active for a while:
user’s head hangs
he/she starts dgeting or complaining about being tired
loses interest in activity
The young child should change position more regularly.

How do I care for my back when lifting?
Although the Madiba2Go Active user may be able to assist during
transfers, taking the Madiba2Go Active apart or lifting it to and from a
car or bus may cause injury to your back. Caring for children involves
lots of bending, lifting and reaching, so looking after your back is very
important for your health.
1. Plan your lift
Where are you going?
Where will you put the
person down again?
Get as close as possible
to surface you are moving
user towards.
2. Check the weight
before you lift alone.
Do you need help?
3. Keep your feet apart,
stand closer to the user.
Wear solid shoes.
4. Keep your knees bent.
Take the weight through
your leg muscles as you
straighten up again.
5. Don’t twist your body
when turning. Move your
feet instead.
6. Keep your back straight
and your chin tucked in.
7. Tell the user
what you will be doing
during the lift.
When lifting with helper,
count 1..2..3...lift together.
Decide who will lead the lift.
Madiba2Go Active tip
Remember to encourage the user
to help during transfers to and from
the Madiba2Go Active whenever
possible.
How do I clean the Madiba2Go Active?
Routine Care:
Wipe frame and posture tray with a wet cloth and all purpose
kitchen cleaner.
Shake out dirt from covers of cushion daily.
Be sure to keep the user dry at all times. Manage bowel and bladder
problems to prevent soiling. This helps to keep the Madiba2Go Active
hygienic.
The Madiba2Go Active seat cushion cover can be washed with luke
warm water and mild detergent. It may be washed in a washing
machine. If the foam has been soiled, use mild soap and rinse off
foam. Cover foam with a towel and press/stamp out water. Dry parts
in an airy place before retting cover. Avoid drying in direct sunlight
or in a tumble drier. When putting cover back onto cushion, match
the shape of the cover to the shape of the cushion. Make sure all
covers are in place on parts when the Madiba2Go Active is in use.
Warning:
Keep foam seat cushion out of the sun (long periods); never leave the
Madiba2Go Active to stand in the rain.
Tools:
Please note: Your no 10 & 13 spanners and no 4, 5 and 6mm Allen
keys are useful for adjustments (therapist).
Store tools in a safe place.

How and when do I service
the Madiba2Go Active?
Basic maintenance:
Looking after your Madiba2Go Active will increase its lifespan and ensure
the safety of the user.
A growing user needs to have his/her Madiba2Go Active checked at least
every 3-4 months to make sure it is tting well and is safe to use.
The condition of the cushion will also be checked to see if it is still
providing postural support and pressure relief.
Make an appointment as soon as possible if the frame is damaged or
if you need replacement of any parts. Your local bicycle shop or garage
technician may be helpful if you live very far from your supplier.
Some tips:
Looking after your Madiba2Go Active well will make it last longer and
keep the user safe. The Madiba2Go Active requires regular maintenance
especially if the child is very active outdoors.
Check regularly that brakes are working: If these are allowed to work
loose they can severely damage the solid tyres and cause them to tear.
Use a no 10 spanner to adjust brakes.
Check cushions at least once every 3 months. See that foam pieces are
not pulled off the buck, cushion or headrest and make sure it is always
used with the waterproof covers in place.
If the user is often wet/soiled, keeping him/her dry will make the foam
cushions last longer. A second wheelchair cushion and waterproof cover
is recommended for these children.
Repair/replace broken or lost parts as soon as possible to avoid more
serious damage to the wheelchair. Although the construction of the
Madiba2Go Active is strong, but if the folding mechanism weakens, it
may make the buggy feel unstable and harder to push.
The pelvic strap should be checked for wear. Make sure the pelvic strap
is not left hanging down to get caught in the wheels.
Covers: Tears to covers may be repaired by a seamstress.
Wheels and Tyres: The Madiba2Go Active has thick rear wheel tyres
for sandy or muddy terrain. These tyres don’t puncture but should be
replaced if they become torn or if the tread is very worn.
Brush dust and dirt from the hub and axle with a small brush. Make
sure the wheels are not wobbling. Bring the Madiba2Go Active in for
service if they are loose.
Footbox: Although the footbox is strong, a heavy weight or load on the
footbox might cause unnecessary damage.
Make sure all bolts are kept tight.
Spoke wheels: Spokes should be tight at all times. If spokes loosen,
immediately take the wheelchair to a technician for repair.
- Tighten screws/knobs as soon as you see they are loose to stop them
getting lost.
- Repair/replace broken or lost parts as soon as possible to avoid more
serious damage.
- If any foam or rubber needs re-gluing, bring parts with the Madiba2Go
Active for service.
You will need to use no 4 and no 5 Allen Keys and no 10/13 spanners
for basic adjustments and repairs.

Has your Madiba2Go Active been
changed in any way?
Yes
No
Changes or extras are marked on this image.
Has your posture tray been changed
in any way?
Therapist’s name
Signature
User/carer’s name
Signature
Yes
No
Changes or extras are marked on this drawing.

Madiba2Go Active adjustments
Date seen: ________/_______/______ Therapist: ___________________________
Phone number: _______________________
Special recommendations
for user/carer
Your next appointment is with:
Date:
Time:
Place:
_______________________(therapist)
____/____/____
_____________
_____________
Additional carer training
Madiba2Go Active adjustments
Date seen: ________/_______/______ Therapist: ___________________________
Phone number: _______________________
Special recommendations
for user/carer
Your next appointment is with:
Date:
Time:
Place:
_______________________(therapist)
____/____/____
_____________
_____________
Additional carer training
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