A flexible stretcher is used wherever it's impractical to gain access to a patient using a conventional rigid stretcher. While at first glance it may seem that this would be the exception, not the rule, there are many instances where the use of rigid stretchers is compromised due to narrow stairways, small doorways, and tight passages.

Important Attributes of Flexible Stretchers

Flexible stretchers need to be accessible, easy to use, and tough. Crucial features of portable stretchers include:

• Storage: Stretchers should be light, compact and easy to store.
• Load capacity: Their load capacity should comfortably exceed that of the heaviest patients.
• Patient control: The design should ensure patient security and comfort.
• Ergonomics: Designed for use in restricted spaces, ergonomic handholds ensure secure gripping, reduce the risk of strain, and minimize the risk of dropping patients.
• Confined spaces: Their design allows responders to safely maneuver patients around obstacles, downstairs, and through small gaps.
• Cleaning: Must be easy to clean and disinfect or disposable.
• Low-friction surface: Stretchers should easily slide under patients and across floors to facilitate quick removal or transfer.

Characteristics of Flexible Stretchers on the Market

A number of flexible stretchers are available, and their features include:

• Load: Maximum carrying capacities vary from 500 to 1,500 pounds; for bariatric patients, a 700-pound capacity is probably the minimum.
• Handles: Handles range from 6 through to 16. When maneuvering patients around corners and stairs, more handles are better, while pull straps help through tight spaces.
• Construction: Surfaces should be tear-resistant and easy to clean.
• Rigidity: Two approaches exist, one incorporating removable slats or backboards and another without rigid supports. Research indicates rigid backboards may cause trauma and experience indicates fully flexible stretchers are adequate.
• Storage and Portability: Stretchers with rigid slats are difficult to store and carry, while fully flexible stretchers are light and fold into a bag as part of a responder's kit.

Why MegaMover® Transporter Is the Best Flexible Stretcher

The MegaMover®, by Graham Medical, is the original flexible stretcher and now has models for virtually all emergency stretcher needs. Designed for use by four or more responders, these stretchers are an ideal choice for transporting patients. Here are six reasons why you should consider MegaMover:

• Lightweight: Weighs only one pound and can be incorporated into responder's kit for immediate availability.
• Smooth construction: The non-woven, smooth, nylon finish is easy to slide under patients and across floors.
• Multiple handles: MegaMover has six handles per side plus two pull straps at either end for maneuvering patients through tight places.
• Flexibility: A wrap-around design effectively immobilizes and secures patients.
• Load capacity: 1,000 pounds.
• Cleaning: Sealed design simplifies cleaning and disinfection.
• Low Cost: The replacement cost is low, making it semi-disposable.

To find out more, contact us here for a distributor near you.