Kemp USA Stair Chair: Field Manual and SOP for Patient Transport

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Kemp USA Stair Chair: Field Manual and SOP for Patient Transport

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 Emergency Stair Chair is a two-operator patient transport device used by EMS and emergency responders to move non-ambulatory patients through stairwells, narrow hallways, and confined environments where standard wheeled gurneys cannot operate.

The stair chair is indicated for conscious, hemodynamically stable patients who can maintain their own airway, tolerate a seated or semi-reclined position, and fall within the 350 lb operational load limit. It is contraindicated for patients with suspected spinal, neck, pelvic, or bilateral femur injuries, and is not recommended for unresponsive patients. The device weighs 22 lbs and deploys from a folded profile, making it a field-ready solution for multi-level residential, industrial, and confined-space scenarios. It is particularly effective for patients in respiratory or cardiac distress who benefit from remaining upright during transport.

The three-phase SOP governs all deployments. Phase 1 covers patient assessment and chair preparation, including confirmation of indications and frame lock engagement. Phase 2 covers patient transfer and restraint application in mandatory sequence: lap strap first to anchor the pelvis, chest strap second with respiratory clearance verified, and leg strap third to prevent interference with the foot-end operator. Phase 3 governs movement, with the rear operator serving as lead communicator, controlling tilt, descent rate, and all verbal commands during stairwell navigation.

Operator readiness is sustained through pre-shift inspection of the frame, handles, vinyl surfaces, restraint buckles, and locking mechanism, followed by post-use decontamination with hospital-grade disinfectant. Any chair with a deficient component must be removed from service immediately. Regular hands-on proficiency drills, including stairwell movement with weighted mannequins, are mandatory to maintain deployment capability.

Field Application Steps

1. CONFIRM PATIENT INDICATION: Assess the patient for consciousness, airway maintenance, hemodynamic stability, and absence of spinal, pelvic, neck, or bilateral femur injuries. Verbally confirm the patient's approximate weight does not exceed the 350 lb operational limit.

2. BRIEF THE PATIENT: Explain the transport procedure clearly to reduce anxiety and gain the patient's cooperation. Inform them they will be secured with three straps and tilted backward during stairwell descent.

3. DEPLOY AND INSPECT THE CHAIR: Unfold the stair chair and confirm all frame locking mechanisms are fully engaged before placing any load on the device. Position the chair as close to the patient as possible to minimize transfer distance.

4. TRANSFER THE PATIENT: Using a two-person lift or other approved patient movement technique, carefully move the patient onto the vinyl seat in a controlled, coordinated manner.

5. APPLY LAP STRAP FIRST: Secure the lap strap snugly across the patient's pelvis before applying any other restraint. This is the primary anchor point and the foundation of all patient security during transport.

6. APPLY CHEST STRAP SECOND: Secure the chest strap across the upper torso, positioned under the armpits. Verify fit by asking the patient to take a deep breath. The strap must be snug but must not restrict respiration.

7. APPLY LEG STRAP THIRD: Secure the leg strap around the patient's lower legs to prevent flailing and to keep the patient's legs clear of the foot-end operator during movement.

8. PERFORM FINAL RESTRAINT CHECK: Re-check all three buckles to confirm they are securely fastened before initiating any movement.

9. ESTABLISH ROLES AND COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL: Designate the rear operator at the head-end as the lead. This operator is responsible for all movement commands, including "Prepare to lift," "Lifting on three, one, two, three," and "Stopping."

10. EXECUTE LIFT AND FLAT-SURFACE MOVEMENT: Both operators lift simultaneously using proper ergonomic technique, lifting with the legs, keeping the back straight, and keeping the load close to the body. Move to the stairwell entry point.

11. CONDUCT STAIRWELL DESCENT: The rear operator initiates a controlled backward tilt, balancing the chair's weight over the rear wheels and legs. The front operator acts as guide and load-bearer. Descend one step at a time in a fluid, controlled manner while maintaining constant verbal and visual communication.

12. TRANSITION TO PRIMARY GURNEY: Once on level ground, move the patient to the staged gurney. Lower the chair, unbuckle all restraints in sequence, and use a two-person lift to transfer the patient for definitive transport.

Equip Yourself: Kemp USA Folding Emergency Stair Chair Stretcher – Compact Patient Transport

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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.