Like most medical products, not all stretchers are created equal. A high-quality stretcher can make a huge difference in an emergency situation, and it’s essential for medical professionals to know what any given stretcher should be capable of.

In this post, we’ll take a look at the most essential components that any stretcher should have. From features that enhance efficiency to those that ensure safety, you’ll get a better idea of what you should be on the lookout for as you shop around.

Solid, Lightweight Frame

To start, a stretcher needs to be solidly built. However, nearly as important is a lightweight frame that’ll increase efficiency in an emergency situation. For example, the Stryker Power Pro XT Cot is a great option that couples a ton of useful features with a lightweight build.

Adjustability

Every medical emergency is different, and a good stretcher needs to be able to adapt to the specific needs of each one. This means that throughout the process of putting the stretcher into use, you need to have plenty of options for adjustability to accommodate the patient.

For example, take a look at the Stryker MX-Pro Bariatric Cot. This well-built option has a wide wheelbase and patient surface, plus a positive action height adjustment system featuring seven different height levels.

Safety

When you consider refurbished medical equipment, safety is probably the first thing that comes to mind. The last thing anyone wants in an emergency is equipment that’s damaged or unsafe, so it’s essential to invest in products that’ll hold up over time. For an idea of a good pick, check out this The Ferno 35X PROFlexx X-Frame Ambulance Cot, an industry leader in safety and stability.

Automation

Just like everything else, modern stretchers have employed the benefits of technology to help them function better. Automated or powered features can make a huge impact, and could increase efficiency in an emergency situation. If you like the idea of an automated stretcher, you might want to consider the Ferno Powerflexx Ambulance Stretcher Cot, which can raise or lower up to 700 pounds with the simple touch of a button.

Ease of Use

The final thing to consider is how easy a stretcher or cot is to use. If a stretcher is too complicated, it can take away precious time, which can make all the difference in an emergency. This is where it’s best to keep things simple. For example, the Stryker MX-PRO R3 Ambulance Cot has an easy-release handle and color-coded controls to help streamline things.

Bottom Line

Now that you know what you’re looking for, you can start to browse around. Of course, budget is always a big concern, so you’ll want to invest in medical equipment that’s both reliable and cost-effective.

For a huge variety of cots, stretchers, and both refurbished and new equipment, you can head over to Coast Biomedical Equipment.