EMS Safety, Stretchers, and Stretcher Handling

What has the greatest impact on EMS crew safety in the area of patient handling? In this study, EMS safety – crew safety for loading and unloading the stretcher either with or without a patient, and the stretcher – primarily powered lift stretchers, and their interface to the ambulance – either the traditional hook and antlers or the powered stretcher lift will be examined. The author, serving in agencies purchasing new ambulances and refurbishing a number of older ambulances and having precepted in agencies with both power lifts and rail mounting systems, became curious as to why new ambulances or refurbishments would be purchased specifically avoiding the newer powered lift even with its incipient cost? What are both national and state level standards and design requirements for ambulances? This study will use current standards at both national and state levels for ambulances, current manufacturer documentation, and authoritative peer reviewed documents on EMS safety. This study finds there are few available studies in the area of EMS lifting safety and injury, and those areas supported by studies have found a large savings over a short period converting their equipment to power stretchers with power lift systems. The costs have generally been recouped within one to two years vice the potential lifetime impact of knee or lower back injury