The foldaway scoop stretcher (or clamshell, Roberson orthopedic stretcher, or just scoop) is a device used specifically for moving injured people. It is most frequently used to lift people who may have a spinal cord injury from the ground, either due to unconsciousness or in order to maintain stability in the case of trauma.
A scoop stretcher has a structure that can be split vertically into two parts, with shaped 'blades' towards the centre which can be brought together underneath a patient. The two halves are placed separately either side of the patient, and then brought together until securing clips at the top and bottom both engage.The advantage is that this piece of equipment allows for spinal immobilization with minimal patient movement.
Scoop stretchers reduce the chance of undesirable movement of injured areas during transfer of a trauma patient, as they maintain the patient in a supine alignment during transfer to a stretcher, vacuum mattress or long spine board. They are more comfortable than a long spine board for transport.
Two hinged, interlocking pieces allow operators to bring the two halves together beneath the patient and gently scoop them up. Made from X-ray translucent, composite material. Includes three burgundy restraints.Features include sturdy, lightweight aluminum construction with an adjustable length and three patient restraint straps. Folds for easy storing and separates in half during application and removal .
Application
The orthopedic stretcher is designed to fit into tight spaces,where both sides of the patient could be reached.The orthopedic stretcher is meant to be broken into two halves,utilizing the releases at both ends.Each half of this split stretcher is then slipped under the patient,When patient if firmly on the orthopedic stretcher,the orthopedic stretcher is reconstructed.In effect,the patient is scooped up by the two halves of the orthopedic stretcher.This is why the orthopedic stretcher became labeled as the scoop stretcher.
Features
- Made from lightweight, HDPE or Al-alloy material
- Can be used to lift, transfer and transport a patient
- Single push release at head and feet to separate stretcher halves
- Twin Safety Lock hinge for smooth and nonbinding locking and unlocking
- Includes three patient restraints (Orange color or black color) with quick release buckle
- Two hinged, interlocking pieces allow operators to gently scoop up a patient without having to roll them; decreasing movement to the cervical spine
- Space saving - folds back on itself, reducing storage space required
- An open center permits the patient to be X-rayed
- Can be used with Head immobilize
- Heavy weight capacity
Benefits
- Completely built with light and sturdy aluminum
- Different colors can also be a way to diversify the stretchers belonging to different operators working in the same area
- Head section recessed to maintain proper cervical alignment
- Supports a patient in the position found reducing risk of further injury
- Easy to clean surface is impervious to fluids
- Thermally-treated polymer construction does not get too hot or cold, allowing for greater patient comfort
- Adjustable length options accommodate patients of different heights
- Narrow foot end and split-apart design provide easier use in confined space immobilization
- Oval profile and angled handles provide ergonomic ease of use
- Once folded easy arrangement inside the ambulance
Advantage
A scoop stretcher is a metal stretcher which disassembles into a right and left half. These halves are assembled around the patient. The advantage is that this piece of equipment allows for spinal immobilization with minimal patient movement.
Optional accessories
Head immobilizer,cervical collar
How to use
- Apply the cervical collar and manually immobilize the head and neck (for patients with suspected spinal injury).
- Adjust the stretcher to the length of the patient.
- Separate the stretcher into right and left halves.
- Position the stretcher halves on opposite sides of the patient.
- Slightly log roll the patient away from you and slide the stretcher half under the patient on both sides.
- Assemble the head end of the stretcher.
- Logroll the patient toward you while the other rescuer brings the foot ends of the stretcher together and latches them in place.
- Pad the patient's head.
- Secure the patient's trunk and lower extremities with three straps positioned at the patient's chest, pelvis, and the knees.
- Immobilize the patient's head with a forehead strap.
