Kemp USA Folding Pole Stretcher: Field Manual & SOP

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Kemp USA Folding Pole Stretcher: Field Manual & SOP

Category: Manual Stretchers & Gurneys

Difficulty Level: Tier 3: Field Competency Required

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Written by: Valerie Ellis Lavin

Quick Overview

The Kemp USA Folding Pole Stretcher is a lightweight, non-rigid litter used by rescue personnel, tactical operators, and emergency responders for rapid patient extrication and transport in space-limited or austere environments where conventional stretchers are impractical.

This stretcher is built for speed and portability, not clinical stabilization. Weighing 10.5 lbs and folding to a compact form via a dual-hinge mechanism, it deploys to a full 85-inch operational length in seconds. Its heavy-duty orange nylon bed supports a maximum load of 350 lbs (158 kg), inclusive of the patient and all attached gear. Authorized deployment contexts include mass casualty incidents, search and rescue operations, athletic events, and tactical law enforcement evacuations where standard EMS equipment is unavailable or inaccessible.

Correct deployment is non-negotiable for field readiness and patient safety. The stretcher must be unfolded lengthwise first, then crosswise, followed by firm engagement of both spreader bars until they lock flat and parallel with the side poles. This locking step is mandatory before any patient is loaded. The nylon bed must be taut, all hinges fully aligned, and the frame free of partial folds before a carry begins.

This device provides zero spinal immobilization capability and is contraindicated for patients with suspected spinal, pelvic, or multi-system trauma unless the patient is first fully secured to a rigid longboard. A minimum of two bearers is required for all loaded carries, with four bearers recommended for long-distance or uneven terrain. Post-mission protocol requires decontamination with a medical-grade disinfectant, detailed inspection of all structural components, and removal from service if damage is identified.

Field Application Steps

1. CONFIRM PATIENT ELIGIBILITY: Verify the patient has no suspected spinal, pelvic, or multi-system trauma before deploying this stretcher. If spinal injury is suspected, immobilize the patient fully on a rigid longboard before any contact with this device.

2. TRANSPORT THE STRETCHER TO THE PATIENT: One operator carries the folded stretcher to the patient's location. At 10.5 lbs, single-operator transport is manageable over distance.

3. CLEAR AND PREPARE THE DEPLOYMENT SURFACE: Place the folded stretcher on a flat, debris-free surface directly adjacent to the patient before beginning the unfolding sequence.

4. UNFOLD LENGTHWISE: Extend the stretcher to its full 85-inch operational length by unfolding lengthwise first. Operate the hinges deliberately to avoid pinch injuries to hands and fingers.

5. UNFOLD CROSSWISE: Open the stretcher crosswise, like opening a book, until the frame is fully extended in both dimensions and all hinges are fully aligned and straight.

6. LOCK BOTH SPREADER BARS: Locate the two internal spreader bars and firmly press both down and away from each other until they lock flat and parallel with the side poles. Confirm both bars are fully engaged before proceeding. This step is mandatory.

7. PERFORM FINAL DEPLOYMENT CHECK: Visually confirm the nylon bed is taut with no bunching or sagging, the frame shows no partial folds, all hinges are fully open, and both spreader bars are locked. Do not load a patient until all checks pass.

8. PREPARE THE PATIENT FOR LOADING: Communicate the movement plan to the patient. Manage the injured limb to minimize unnecessary movement during the lift and transition onto the stretcher.

9. EXECUTE A COORDINATED LIFT AND PLACEMENT: Both rescuers position on the same side of the patient. One controls the head and shoulders, the other controls the hips and legs. On a unified command, perform a log-roll or direct lift and place the patient gently onto the center of the nylon bed.

10. POSITION AND SECURE THE PATIENT: Adjust the patient for comfort and even weight distribution across the bed surface. If cravats or webbing are available, use them to secure the patient, particularly on uneven terrain. Note that this stretcher does not include integrated restraint straps.

11. ASSIGN BEARER ROLES AND EXECUTE THE LIFT: Designate one bearer at the head and one at the feet. The head-bearer commands all movement. On the command "PREPARE TO LIFT," bearers assume a proper stance with knees bent and back straight. On "LIFT," both bearers raise the stretcher simultaneously and smoothly.

12. CARRY FEET-FIRST AND OFFLOAD: Proceed at a deliberate, controlled pace with the patient carried feet-first. The head-bearer calls out upcoming obstacles or terrain changes. At the destination, reverse the loading procedure using coordinated commands to transfer the patient safely onto the receiving surface.

Equip Yourself: Kemp USA Folding Pole Stretcher – Compact Emergency Litter

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER & SAFETY WARNING:
The information provided in this Luminary Global Field Manual is strictly for educational and informational purposes. It is not a substitute for formal medical, tactical, or professional training. In the event of a medical emergency, immediately seek professional help or contact emergency services. Luminary Global assumes no liability for the misuse of equipment, improper application of techniques, or any injuries/damages resulting from the use of these guidelines. Always rely on your official agency training, local laws, and established protocols during a crisis.