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MODULE 4 – Van Anatomy and Equipment
Objectives:
• Identify the basic parts of an Mobility Assistance Vehicle (MAV)
• Identify unsafe operating techniques in Mobility Assistance
• Identify the most appropriate way to place a wheelchair on and use the hydraulic lift
• List three types of wheelchair restraint systems
The Mobility Assistance Vehicle (MAV) is the
van in which you will transport your patients.
All MAVs are to be registered, insured and
inspected as required by New Jersey State
law. As described earlier, the New Jersey
Department of Health and Senior Services,
Office of Emergency Medical Services
(OEMS), will inspect and license the vehicle
for use as an MAV. Always be sure the valid
documents are in the van before taking to the
road.
The documents include:
Your driver’s license
Your CPR training certificate
Your MAVO training certificate
The vehicle’s NJ registration
The vehicle’s insurance
The vehicle’s OEMS license
When you first begin driving the MAV, keep in
mind the extra length, height and weight of
this vehicle in comparison to the average car.
Make the necessary adjustments in your
driving style to accommodate the differences
in the MAV such as turning radius, overhangs,
and stopping distances.
The vehicle is open from the driver’s
compartment to the patient’s compartment
which allows you, the MAVO, to
communicate with your patient in transit and
to monitor his/her needs. By conversing with
patients, the MAVO will put them at ease
and be more likely to be told about
discomfort or concerns they may have.
The MAV is also equipped with a hydraulic
lift which may be located at the rear or on
the passenger’s side of the van. The lift is
used to load and unload patients in
wheelchairs.
Side-Loading MAV Vehicle
Rear-Loading MAV Vehicle