During search and rescue operations, there are many instances when conventional rigid stretchers are too big, bulky or awkward to use. This is particularly the case when there's a need to move a patient quickly due to impending danger.

In such situations, rescue personnel often resort to any practical solution they can find, such as the patient's clothing, straps or bed clothing. Needless to say, while better than nothing, these methods may result in excessive physical strain on the rescuers and provide limited protection to injured patients. In difficult rescue situations, a light, foldable, flexible stretcher is a better solution.

Problems With Rigid Stretchers

Although rigid stretchers are easy to use and great for most purposes, their rigid design means they're difficult to use in restricted spaces. Additionally, they are bulky and take up a lot of space when not in use.

A concern about rigid stretchers is that their design often incorporates a backboard, which is uncomfortable, especially when a patient is strapped to the stretcher. It's now accepted that the concept of using backboards for suspected spinal injuries is incorrect and could cause more harm than good. Also, the log roll procedure often used to move an injured patient onto a spine board is now believed to aggravate spinal injuries.

Traditional Methods of Moving Patients Without Stretchers

In situations where there's no time to waste or if access is restricted, first responders such as firefighters often resort to improvisation. Options that exist include:

• Clothing: The patient is lifted using their clothing and carried to where they can be put onto a stretcher. Drawbacks of this approach are that clothing may tear and injuries to limbs could be exacerbated.
• Sheets: Another method of moving an injured person is using a sheet, blanket or tarp. The sheet is slid under the person, and the patient is dragged or lifted. The downside is it's difficult to get a good grip on the sheet and it may tear, so there's a high risk of dropping the patient.
• Cross-arm lifts: These are suitable for conscious and semiconscious patients but are relatively clumsy, impose a high load on the lifters, and are difficult over uneven ground.

The Flexible Stretcher

A solution that overcomes the above limitations is the flexible stretcher. Made from a non-woven nylon that’s reinforced for strength, the flexible stretcher is ideal for transporting patients from areas inaccessible by rigid stretchers. Flexible stretchers offer the following benefits:

• Multiple handles: The provision of numerous reinforced handles mean rescue personnel has a good grip, avoid back strain, and can easily lift patients.
• Lightweight: Compact and weighing next to nothing, low-cost flexible stretchers can be included in first responders' kit for immediate availability.
• Low-friction surface: The easy-to-clean, non-woven surface is simple to slide under the patient, and the ergonomic handles reduce the load on the responders' backs.
• Wraparound: Flexible stretchers wrap around the patient's body, providing good support and comfort.

To find out more about our MegaMover® transport units, contact your local Graham Medical Distributor.