Paramedics often need to transport emergency victims from the scene to a health facility. That involves transferring the victims onto a stretcher and then into an ambulance.
Paramedics may suffer injuries due to improper lifting or moving during this transportation. So how do you carry a stretcher to avoid causing further injuries to the patient and yourself?
When carrying a stretcher, come as close to the patient as possible. To help build leverage and maintain balance, keep your arms and the patient close to your body. Meanwhile, keep your back as straight as possible while bending at the knees. If you encounter difficulties carrying the stretcher, ask for backup.
Today, we will discuss how to transport patients on various stretchers.
A Wheeled Stretcher
There are two main types of wheeled stretchers:
- Two-person wheeled stretchers
- One-person wheeled stretchers
A two-person wheeled stretcher requires two paramedics to raise and load a patient into an ambulance.
On the other hand, a one-person wheeled stretcher has unique loading wheels at the head that allow one medical technician to load it into an ambulance.
Generally, you can adjust these stretchers to various heights and angles to elevate the patient’s legs.
How To Load A Patient On A Wheeled Stretcher Into An Ambulance
Alt: loading a patient into an ambulance
Wheeled stretchers are ideal during emergencies as they are convenient and easy to move.
Properly loading a patient into an ambulance is essential to avoid more injuries.
Below is a step-by-step guide showing how to carry a patient on a wheeled stretcher.
- Place the two-person stretcher’s head end on the ambulance’s bumper and lock it at the lowest level.
- Take turns standing on the opposite sides of the stretcher, bending at the knees while keeping your backs straight, and grasping the stretcher’s lowest bar.
- Both palms should face up and hands placed at each end of the lowest bar.
- Stand and proceed toward the back of the ambulance until the front wheels are resting on the floor.
- Bring the stretcher forward, then lock its foot end in place.
A Scoop Stretcher
A scoop stretcher is made to elevate supine patients with ease. It comprises a rectangular aluminum tube with V-shaped lifts that allow patients to be “scooped” off the ground without changing positions.
One of its benefits is that you can use it in tight locations, unlike other stretchers.
Below is an image of a simple scoop stretcher.
Alt: simple scoop stretcher
You can use the stretcher to lift a patient with a suspected spine injury.
First, immobilize the patient by placing them on a long backboard. If you detect no spine injury, load the scoop onto the stretcher with the patient for transfer.
Below are the steps to follow to ensure proper use of the scoop stretcher:
- To accommodate the patient, adjust the length of the scoop stretcher on the ground beside the patient.
- Place one-half of the stretcher on either side of the patient after separating the stretcher pieces. Do not place the equipment on top of the patient.
- Lift one side of the patient’s garment slightly as a colleague slides one-half of the stretcher beneath the patient’s side.
- Repeat on the opposite side. If you suspect a spinal injury, a medical technician should provide continuous cervical collar support.
- Fix the head end of the scoop in position, then bring together the foot end until the assembly is locked.
- If the patient resists, gently elevate one side of the body to keep the patient’s clothing from getting caught, and their skin squeezed.
- Attach the padded head strap to the helmet. Before lifting, use at least three straps to secure the patient to the scoop stretcher.
A Basket Stretcher
A basket stretcher is like a regular stretcher but with raised edges. Below is a photo of a basket stretcher.
Alt: basket stretcher
Raised edges transform a stretcher into a basket-like shape. A basket stretcher is ideal in situations where movement is confined. Fold the basket structure into two when not in use to make it easy to carry.
Below are the steps to rescue an immobilized patient:
- Assemble the stretcher by fastening the two parts together.
- 2. Spread a blanket over the basket stretcher. It is essential to keep the patient warm during cold weather.
- Stretch out the patient using the basket stretcher. You will need to teach the patient how to lie on the stretcher facing upwards if they can move. If they can’t move, place them inside the stretcher.
- Pad the patient. In addition to acting as a pillow, the padding will make the stretcher more comfortable for the patient.
- Fold the blanket near the patient’s feet and tuck it below the ankle to avoid chaffing.
- To ensure the patient’s safety, have three paramedics lift the patient, although two can still do so if there is insufficient space.
Safety Precautions When Carrying A Stretcher
The following measures can help emergency medical technicians avoid back injuries:
- Figure out how much weight you will be lifting
- Even if you use a one-person stretcher, ensure you have a colleague to help you
- To keep the lift balanced, use an even number of persons
- When lifting the stretcher, always maintain your back in a locked-in posture.
- Avoid bending at the waist
Conclusion
A stretcher plays a significant role in transporting a patient from an emergency scene to a health facility. When carrying the stretcher, you want to protect yourself from possible injuries and prevent the patient’s condition from getting worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first rule for lifting a stretcher?
Don’t lift a stretcher while bending forward. To lift a stretcher, squat down to it and keep it close to your body.
How much does a hospital stretcher weigh?
A hospital stretcher weighs approximately 140 pounds. Also, it can lift five times its weight
What is the length of an ambulance stretcher?
An ambulance stretcher measures 24 inches by 84 inches when fully reclined, with radius corners of at least 5 inches.
