Rolling The Stretcher; Increasing The Loading Height; Figure 41 - Rolling The Stretcher; Figure 42 - Increasing The Loading Height - Ferno 50-E User Manual

Using the Stretcher

7.8 Rolling the Stretcher

GENERAL GUIDELINES
• Rolling the stretcher with a patient on it requires
a minimum of two trained operators unless local
protocols permit one operator to roll the stretcher.
• Use help as needed to safely control the weight of
the patient, stretcher, and accessories or
equipment. See Using Additional Help, page 33.
• Roll the stretcher on smooth, unobstructed
surfaces whenever possible.
• To cross low obstacles such as door sills, lift the
weight slightly off the wheels to allow them to roll
smoothly over the obstacle.
• Lift and carry the stretcher over high obstacles.
ROLLING THE STRETCHER
1. Make sure the restraints are securely fastened
around the patient.
2. Both Operators: Raise the stretcher to the rolling
position. See Stretcher Positions, page 10.
3. Foot-End Operator: Grasp the main frame and
pull the stretcher (Figure 41).
4. Head-End Operator: Position yourself at the side
of the stretcher near the patient's head, or at the
head end of the stretcher and grasp the main
frame. Attend the patient and assist in rolling and
steering the stretcher (Figure 41).

7.9 Increasing the Loading Height

The preferred way to load the stretcher into an
ambulance is with the stretcher in the highest position.
In some cases such as uneven ground or when the
ambulance is parked on an incline, loading in this
position is difficult.
If the loading wheels do not easily roll onto the
ambulance floor, increase the loading height by lowering
the foot end one position (Figure 42). Then, load the
stretcher following the instructions on page 31.
30

Figure 41 - Rolling the Stretcher

Important
Roll the stretcher downhill foot-end first.
If it is not medically appropriate to do this, roll
the stretcher head-end first, but have the Head-
End Operator exert upward force on the main
frame to help maintain stretcher balance.
One Level Only

Figure 42 - Increasing the Loading Height

© Ferno-Washington, Inc. 234-3257-01 December, 2004
Ferno Model 50-E