What is a Stretcher and How is it Used in Patient Care?

Stretchers, often called gurneys or trolleys, are used to safely transport sick or injured individuals. Commonly seen in hospitals and ambulances, they also play a role in the funeral industry for dignified handling and movement.

Core Features and Uses of Stretchers

Stretchers come in different types to suit various emergency and medical needs. The main types include:

Transport Stretcher

These are commonly used inside hospitals to move patients safely and comfortably from one area to another such as from a ward to the operating room. They are reliable, easy to use, and designed for smooth mobility in medical facilities.

Ambulance Stretcher

Used mainly in ambulances, these stretchers are built to be loaded and unloaded easily, often with adjustable frames and gas springs. Some models even convert into a wheelchair for added flexibility, like the YA-AS05 which doubles as a gurney and a wheelchair.

Emergency or Folding Stretcher

Ideal for rescue operations or emergency situations outside hospitals. These stretchers are lightweight and foldable (single or double fold) to save space in ambulances or storage units. They’re widely used in sports events, disaster zones, and outdoor emergencies.

Spinal Board (Backboard)

Used in trauma care, this rigid board offers firm support when moving patients with suspected spinal or limb injuries. They’re commonly used by ambulance crews, lifeguards, and ski patrollers for safe transportation without worsening the injury.

Scoop Stretcher

This stretcher splits into two halves to be gently slid under the patient from either side, then locked back together. It’s particularly useful for patients with spinal injuries, as it minimizes movement. Scoop stretchers come in lightweight aluminum or temperature-stable plastic variants for patient comfort and durability.

The Importance of Clove Hitches in Rope Stretchers

In emergency rescue scenarios, rope-based improvised stretchers are often created when traditional stretchers are unavailable. These makeshift stretchers use sturdy poles or branches and ropes to form a supportive bed to carry an injured person. The goal is to create a secure, stable surface that distributes the patient's weight evenly during transport.

Why Clove Hitches Are Crucial

The clove hitch is a simple yet strong knot used to fasten rope to a pole, making it ideal for building rope stretchers. Here's why it’s important:

The clove hitch grips tightly around the pole and doesn't easily slip, ensuring the rope holds firm under tension and weight.

It can be quickly tied even with one hand and untied just as easily, which is vital in urgent situations.

The knot can be repositioned without untying, allowing precise placement of each rope segment to evenly space the bed slats.

When used repeatedly along two poles, clove hitches create a series of parallel ropes that act like a bed, distributing body weight and offering support.

Practical Use

To create the stretcher, rescuers tie multiple clove hitches across two parallel poles, forming a rope “webbing” or base for the patient to lie on. This setup is strong, flexible, and can be assembled quickly using readily available materials ideal for wilderness rescues or disaster zones.

Number of Clove Hitches Needed for a Stretcher

For a rope stretcher to be stable and safe, you’ll typically need 8 to 10 clove hitches on each side. This spacing gives enough support across the stretcher to hold the person securely without sagging or causing discomfort.

Using the right number of knots ensures even weight distribution, making it easier and safer to carry someone especially over longer distances or uneven terrain. More hitches can be added if extra support is needed, depending on the patient’s weight and the length of the stretcher.

Step-by-Step: Using and Moving a Patient Safely on a Stretcher

Step 1: Prepare Everything in Advance

Before starting, lower the head of the bed and adjust the bed height so it’s level or slightly higher than the stretcher. Make sure the bed wheels are locked for safety.

Place a slide board or even a plastic sheet under the draw-sheet to reduce friction, and gently tuck it beneath the patient’s upper body. Move their legs close to the edge of the bed, and ask them to cross their arms over their chest. Talk them through what’s going to happen so they feel secure and can help if possible.

Step 2: Move the Patient to the Bed’s Edge

With help, hold both sides of the draw-sheet firmly. On a count of three, gently lean back to shift the patient closer to the edge. Be sure to move in sync, keeping the draw-sheet taut so it stays in place.

Step 3: Get the Stretcher in Place

While one person continues to support the patient, the other brings the stretcher alongside the bed and locks its wheels. The bed should still be slightly higher than the stretcher to make the transfer easier. Begin by carefully moving the patient’s legs onto the stretcher—this helps reduce strain on your back.

Step 4: Slide the Patient Onto the Stretcher

One team member can kneel on the bed to maintain a strong grip on the draw-sheet. Working together, use a coordinated count to gently slide the patient over. It may take a couple of gentle shifts to get them fully on the stretcher.