In many disaster situations, stretchers are used to transport the injured to ensure that they are treated and transferred safely in the first instance. Placing the casualty on a stretcher minimises pain and prevents secondary injuries. Stretchers are the most common means of transporting the injured and there are many different types of stretcher.

Commonly used transfer stretchers are as follows.

Folding stretcher

 

Similar in design to a simple stretcher, but with one or more hinged points that fold the stretcher into a more compact form for easy handling or storage.

Basket stretcher

 

Basket stretchers, also known as boat stretchers, are used for transporting casualties in situations such as debris and rescue at height. Basket stretchers are generally made of high-density polyethylene fibre, surrounded by guard rails and fitted with adjustable foot restraints, safety harnesses and comfortable mattresses for greater comfort. To use it, place the casualty due to its large size, it is not suitable for use in small spaces.

Scoop Stretcher

 

The Scoop Stretcher is made of high-strength aluminium alloy boards with clutching devices at both ends, allowing the stretcher to be separated into two parts; the length of the stretcher can be adjusted according to the length of the patient. The scoop stretcher is mainly used in hospitals and rescue sites for the transport of casualties, especially for fractures and serious injuries. The stretcher can be fixed in place and the patient can be quickly shovelled or pulled out from underneath the patient without moving the patient, reducing secondary injuries to the patient. The large space in the middle of the spade stretcher does not provide adequate protection for the back when transporting a casualty; as it is made of aluminium, the temperature affects the surface temperature of the material.

Spinal board

 

The spinal board is designed for the transport of spinal injuries and is made of a high-density polyethylene shell that allows 100% X-ray penetration; it is a hard material and less comfortable.

Rolling Stretcher

 

Small, lightweight, easily stored and portable, the rolling Stretcher is suitable for use in limited or confined spaces, working at height and other complex environments. The rolled stretcher can be towed, so it can be used for one-person transfers, but it does not facilitate the detection and treatment of casualties during transport.

Wheeled stretcher

 

For ambulances, a foldable wheel stretcher (or ambulance stretcher) is a stretcher on a variable height wheel frame. Typically, the one-piece lugs on the stretcher are locked into spring latches within the ambulance to prevent movement during transport. It is usually covered with disposable sheets and cleaned after each patient to prevent the infection from spreading. Its key value is to facilitate the transfer of patients and sheets to a fixed bed or table upon arrival at the emergency room. Both types may have straps to hold the patient in place.