Patient Transport Litters: Protection and Stability Benefits

Litters (stretchers) provide critical advantages over manual carries:

Protection

• Rigid frame prevents secondary spinal/extremity injury
• Secure straps minimize movement during transport
• Enables cervical collar maintenance

Stability

• Distributes weight across multiple bearers (4–6)
• Low center of gravity reduces tipping
• Compatible with ambulance loading systems

Types & Selection

Type	Use Case	Key Features
Rigid pole litter	General EMS, SAR	Lightweight, durable, minimal padding
Basket litter (Stokes)	Technical rescue, vertical evac	Full enclosure, floatation, multiple tie-ins
Vacuum mattress	Spinal/pelvic trauma	Conforms to body, immobilizes, insulates
Scoop stretcher	Supine patients, narrow spaces	Splits longitudinally, no log-roll needed

Proper training in litter rigging, loading, and carry techniques is essential for EMS/SAR personnel.