1. PRE-USE INSPECTION: Unroll the stretcher and visually inspect the entire vinyl surface for cuts, punctures, or tears, paying close attention to seams. Flex the stretcher to feel for cracked or broken internal slats, then pull firmly on each of the six handles and function-check every buckle to confirm engagement and release. Remove the device from service immediately if any defect is found.
2. CONFIRM PATIENT AND ENVIRONMENT SUITABILITY: Verify that patient weight, including any equipment carried with them, does not exceed 750 lbs. Confirm that the Speed Stretcher is the appropriate device for the environment, and assess whether spinal precautions apply before any movement begins.
3. STAGE THE STRETCHER: Carry the rolled stretcher to the patient's side. Unroll it and lay it flat adjacent to the patient with the buckle side of the straps facing up. Unbuckle and pre-position all three securing straps clear of the patient loading area.
4. LOAD THE PATIENT: Assign a team leader to direct all movement. With rescuers positioned for a coordinated log-roll, and with axial alignment maintained if spinal injury is suspected, roll the patient onto their side away from the stretcher. Slide the stretcher against the patient's back, then gently roll the patient back onto the center of the device, ensuring body mass is evenly distributed over the internal slats.
5. SECURE THE PATIENT: Fasten the chest strap across the upper chest, routed under the armpits to avoid restricting respiration, and cinch snugly. Fasten the pelvic strap across the hips as the primary anchor point, then fasten the leg strap across the thighs just proximal to the knees. Verify all three buckles are fully seated and all straps are snug before movement.
6. ASSIGN THE CARRY TEAM: For stair or bariatric transport, assign a minimum of 4 and preferably 6 personnel to the molded hand grips. Position the strongest team members at the torso grips to manage the heaviest portion of the load.
7. EXECUTE THE LIFT: The team leader issues the command: "Team, prepare to lift on my count. One, two, three, LIFT." All personnel lift using the legs with backs straight, keeping the load close to the body. Allow the stretcher to flex as needed to clear tight corners and stair landings.
8. TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATE: Maintain constant verbal communication throughout movement, especially on stairs and at thresholds. The team leader controls pace and calls all stops, direction changes, and hazard alerts.
9. TRANSFER AND DECONTAMINATE: Lower the patient in a coordinated manner onto the destination cot or litter. Remove the Speed Stretcher from the patient care area and clean all surfaces with soap and water, then apply a department-approved intermediate-level disinfectant. Allow the device to air dry completely, with particular attention to handles and straps, before rolling and stowing.
10. STORE FOR NEXT DEPLOYMENT: Roll the stretcher lengthwise and secure with the integrated storage strap, producing a 58-inch by 6-inch rolled configuration. Store in a clean, dry vehicle compartment or locker, away from heavy objects, sharp tools, and prolonged UV exposure.
