SOP: Kemp USA Polyethylene Slider Transfer Board Field Manual

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SOP: Kemp USA Polyethylene Slider Transfer Board Field Manual

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 Polyethylene Slider Transfer Board is a low-friction lateral transfer aid used by EMS crews, hospital staff, long-term care providers, and mortuary personnel to move patients or decedents safely between surfaces of similar height without lifting.

The board's HDPE construction measures 67 inches by 19 inches and 0.75 inches thick, providing the structural integrity needed to bridge gaps up to 6 inches between transfer surfaces without sagging under load. Its ultra-smooth, non-porous surface minimizes friction so a subject on a draw sheet can be slid across with minimal operator force, directly reducing musculoskeletal strain during high-frequency transfer operations. The 19-inch width is specifically sized to fit within the side rails of standard medical beds and gurneys, maintaining anatomical alignment across the head, torso, and hips throughout the transfer sequence.

Deployment of this board requires a minimum of two trained operators executing a defined four-step protocol: surface staging and brake confirmation, board placement via log-roll, draw-sheet-driven lateral transfer on verbal command, and controlled board removal with patient recentering. The Receiver leads all verbal commands from the destination side, while the Positioner guides at the hip and shoulder from the origin side. Both surfaces must be braked, locked, and confirmed stable before any transfer is initiated.

This board is a sliding and transfer aid only. It provides no spinal immobilization and must not be used as a lifting device, litter, or spineboard. Any operator managing a patient with suspected spinal injury must follow independent SMR and C-spine protocols. Pre- and post-use inspection for cracks, deep gouges, and surface integrity is required, and any damaged board must be removed from service immediately.

Field Application Steps

1. SURFACE STAGING: Position the gurney and destination bed parallel to each other with a gap of less than 3 inches where possible, not to exceed 6 inches under any circumstance. Engage brakes on both surfaces and confirm they are locked and stable. Adjust heights so the destination surface is slightly lower than the origin surface to assist gravity during the slide.

2. PATIENT PREPARATION: Inform the patient of the procedure before initiating any movement. Position a draw sheet beneath the patient running from shoulders to hips. Confirm no suspected spinal injury is present. If spinal injury is suspected, halt and apply independent SMR and C-spine protocols before proceeding.

3. BOARD PLACEMENT: Operator 1 (Positioner) log-rolls the patient onto their side away from the destination bed. Insert the board against the patient's back, advancing it until approximately two-thirds of its 19-inch width is underneath the patient and draw sheet. Return the patient to the supine position.

4. OPERATOR POSITIONING: Operator 2 (Receiver) moves to the far side of the destination bed and grasps the draw sheet. Operator 1 (Positioner) takes a stable stance at the origin surface, positioned to provide a guiding push at the patient's hip and shoulder. Confirm both operators are set before issuing any command.

5. EXECUTION OF TRANSFER: Operator 2 (Receiver) issues the verbal command: "Prepare to slide on three." On the count, Operator 2 pulls the draw sheet in a smooth, continuous motion toward the destination surface. Operator 1 simultaneously provides a gentle, controlled guiding push at the hip and shoulder. Do not lift at any point during this sequence.

6. BOARD REMOVAL: Log-roll the patient to the side away from the origin surface. Extract the board firmly from beneath the patient. Return the patient to the supine position, center them on the destination surface, and raise side rails per protocol.

7. POST-TRANSFER INSPECTION AND DECONTAMINATION: Perform a visual inspection of the board for cracks, fractures, deep gouges, or warping, paying particular attention to edges. Run a gloved hand across all surfaces to detect scratches that could snag a draw sheet on future deployments. Remove all visible soil and body fluids, then clean the entire board including edges with an agency-approved, hospital-grade disinfectant and follow manufacturer contact time instructions. Wipe completely dry before storing flat or vertically on the long edge.

Equip Yourself: Kemp USA Slider Transfer Board – Polyethylene Patient Mover

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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.