Last month, in advance of the launch of the new Rifton Hygiene and Toileting System (HTS), we published some research-based white papers on toilet training and toilet positioning for children and individuals with disabilities. This supplemented the work of Claire Keeler, RN CPNP, CDE, who wrote Toilet Training a Child with Special Needs. Positioning a child with disabilities comfortably on the toilet is an important step in toilet training and often requires adaptive equipment. However the range of equipment options is broad, and you need to know what to look for. The terminology used can be age-specific. For instance, do not use the words heavy duty commode chair when searching for a pediatric toileting chair. A heavy duty commode chair usually describes a product designed for adult use.
The Riftons HTS is designed primarily for the pediatric population with the versatile positioning options needed to overcome almost every toileting or bathing challenge. It can be used on the toilet, over the toilet, or as a free-standing commode or shower chair. In addition, a portability kit allows the chair to become a foldable commode to be carried along on family road-trips or outings. Here’s what makes the positioning of the HTS unique:
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Toilet Mounting
Stripped to its basics it becomes a cushioned toilet seat that mounts on a regular toilet, but with the addition of arm supports and a seatbelt. This is for a child with minimal involvement. The arm supports and seatbelt provide boundaries. A back rest, tray, and deflector may be added if necessary.
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Over the Toilet Mounting
It can be used over a toilet when mounted on either a mobile or stationary frame. The seat height adjustment allows for sufficient clearance of all round-front toilets. Additional supports can be added for improved positioning and the backrest can be tilted forward or backwards for comfort.
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Standing Commode
By slipping a pan underneath the seat, the adaptive toileting chair becomes a free-standing commode. In this configuration, the tilt-in-space feature can be used to its full 30-degree range anterior to posterior.
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Easy Transfer from Toilet to Shower
The posterior tilt option of the chair and the simple and easy-to-clean design gives the HTS the dual function of a shower chair. The seat and back can also be transferred onto a tub base for bathtub use.
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Adjusts to Size
And the toileting system grows with the child. The two toileting systems pictured here are exactly the same size — one is adjusted to its smallest setting, the other to its largest, clearly illustrating the HTS’s capacity to accommodate children of every size, body type and special need.
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Sit-to-Stand
The 15 degrees of anterior tilt provides great positioning for facilitating a sit-to-stand transfer. Additionally, using the anterior tilt and an open seat pad makes hygiene care much easier.
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