A stretcher is a portable medical platform used for safely moving individuals who are ill, injured, or unable to walk on their own. This equipment is an integral part of emergency medical services (EMS), hospitals, and various rescue operations. The primary role of a stretcher is to facilitate the transfer of a patient from one location to another, such as from an accident scene into an ambulance or between departments within a hospital. By providing a stable base, the stretcher ensures that patient movement is managed and controlled during transport.
Core Purpose of Patient Transport
The function of a stretcher is to protect the patient’s well-being during transit. For individuals with suspected trauma, the stretcher provides a rigid, flat surface that aids in maintaining proper spinal alignment and minimizing movement. This stabilization is important, as uncontrolled shifts in position can potentially worsen existing injuries, particularly those involving the spine.
The device offers a secure platform where medical personnel can continue to deliver care without interruption. Many stretchers are equipped with features like IV pole attachments and space for monitoring equipment, turning the transport device into a mobile treatment station. Utilizing a mechanical stretcher also reduces the physical strain and risk of injury for first responders who would otherwise have to manually lift and carry the patient.
Specialized Stretcher Designs
The Wheeled Ambulance Cot, often referred to as a gurney, represents the most common design used in pre-hospital emergency care. These devices feature a wheeled frame with a variable-height mechanism, which is frequently powered by battery-operated hydraulics for effortless raising and lowering. The cot’s legs automatically fold as it is pushed into the ambulance and lock securely into a mounted latch system to prevent movement during high-speed transit. This adjustability ensures a smooth and rapid transfer from the ground or a bed into the ambulance compartment.
The Scoop Stretcher, also known as an orthopedic stretcher, is engineered to limit spinal movement during patient extraction. This device is constructed from two longitudinal halves that can be separated and positioned underneath the patient from opposite sides. The halves are then clasped together at the head and foot, effectively “scooping” them up without the need for manual rolling or lifting. This method minimizes the risk of secondary injury to the cervical spine, which is a concern in trauma situations.
For scenarios involving rough terrain or vertical movement, the Basket Stretcher, or Stokes Litter, is employed. This design features a rigid, enclosed shell made of durable plastic or metal mesh, creating a protective cocoon around the patient. The raised sides provide lateral protection, and the stretcher includes numerous securing points for harnesses and ropes. This allows the basket to be carried, dragged, or hoisted by rope systems in complex environments like cliffs, industrial areas, or water.
Deployment Across Different Environments
In pre-hospital EMS, ambulances rely heavily on the Wheeled Ambulance Cot for its speed and efficiency in urban and suburban settings. The powered features of these cots reduce the time and physical exertion required to load and unload a patient, which is a significant factor in time-sensitive emergencies.
Within hospital settings, internal transport stretchers, which are similar to gurneys but designed for indoor use, move patients between the emergency department, operating rooms, and diagnostic imaging areas. These stretchers prioritize maneuverability in tight corridors and the capability to adjust height for seamless patient transfer onto stationary procedure tables. Their primary function is to maintain continuity of care and comfort during facility transfers.
In contrast, technical rescue operations, such as those in wilderness areas, collapsed buildings, or mountains, necessitate the use of specialized equipment. The rigid, protective form of the Basket Stretcher makes it the preferred device for hoisting and securing patients in vertical or confined spaces. Its design ensures the patient remains stable and protected even when the stretcher is tilted at extreme angles or moved over uneven ground.