User Manual for Spex Constructa Cushion

Quick guide from the manual

The Spex Constructa Cushion is a modular seating system designed for users requiring postural and positioning support. This manual covers installation, customization, and safety guidelines for both the Shape and Flex models.

Safety Instructions

Before using the cushion, ensure you understand the following safety requirements:

• Weight Capacity: 14”-16” width cushions support up to 200 lbs (90 kg). 18”-20” width cushions support up to 300 lbs (136 kg).
• Environment: Keep the cushion dry. Do not use in showers or pools. Avoid extreme temperatures and sharp objects.
• Skin Checks: Regularly check for red marks or pressure spots. If skin irritation occurs, stop use and consult a healthcare professional.
• Usage: Never use the cushion without the Inner Cover and Overlay foam.

Cushion Components

The system consists of an Outer Cover, Overlay, Inner Cover, and a Positioning Base. The base contains various foam components, including contours, positioning blocks, and ischial inserts, which can be adjusted to meet specific postural needs.

Adjusting the Cushion

Adjustments should be performed by a qualified clinician. The base foam can be modified to improve posture, pelvic alignment, and pressure distribution.

Base Adjustment

The Strategic Positioning Kit allows for adding or removing pelvic and thigh pads to correct pelvic obliquity, support flexion limitations, or provide anti-thrust support.

Constructa Flex Base Adjustment

The Flex base offers additional adjustments for complex needs, including:

• Hip/Thigh Angle: Adjust by removing or reversing the Leg Wedge.
• Pelvic Height: Add or remove Ischial Pads.
• Rotation: Rotate the Leg Wedge by 90 degrees.
• Leg Length: Adjust using the puzzle joint.

Installing the Covers and Overlay

Once the base foam is configured:

1. Fit the Inner Cover loosely over the base.
2. Place the Overlay on top, aligning the front edge with the Inner Cover.
3. Press the Overlay into the leg troughs and secure the front flaps under the base.
4. Loop the side straps from the Inner Cover through the Overlay loops and secure them, ensuring they are not too tight to avoid hammocking.
5. Attach the rear flap to prevent the Overlay from sliding forward.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Monthly cleaning is recommended to extend the cushion's life (expected lifetime is 5 years).

• Outer Cover: Machine wash in warm water (40°C / 104°F). Drip or tumble dry on low heat. Do not iron, dry clean, or bleach.
• Foam: Keep dry. If wet, dry thoroughly before reassembly.
• Disinfection: Use AHP (Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide) disinfectant wipes as per manufacturer instructions.

Transit Safety

The Spex Seating System is crash-tested and suitable for use as a motor vehicle seat when used with an appropriate wheelchair base. Always use both pelvic and shoulder-belt restraints. Ensure the belt restraints are positioned correctly, low across the pelvis and snugly against the body, without being held away by wheelchair components.