Stretchers are a vital tool for transporting patients from emergency situations to hospitals. Stretchers not only have to be comfortable for patients, but can also have assistive features to help emergency responders.  However, stretchers are not restricted to hospital use. Nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, clinics, private practices, and other acute care facilities utilize stretchers to transport patients safely around facilities. MFI Medical carries a full range of stretchers and cots to address nearly any situation, whether in an urban environment or the wilderness. Take a look at our many options.

Hospital Stretchers

Hospital stretchers are quite different from ambulance stretchers. They’re typically more padded and bulkier with access to life-saving equipment that a patient might need. The beds are adjustable and can be equipped with handrails, IV poles, or motorized elements for one-person use.

Emergency Stretchers

Ambulance cots and emergency stretchers are versatile, durable, and adjustable to accommodate nearly any patient in an emergency situation. MFI Medical carries renowned brands of ambulance stretchers, including Ferno and Stryker. These stretchers are designed for quick loading and unloading from an ambulance, with only one or two people needed to operate. 

Power Assist Systems

Many of the Stryker units have the option to be equipped with power assist systems, which can ease the burden of lifting stretchers when loading or unloading from an ambulance. This is especially helpful for responders so they avoid injuring themselves on the job. Since these power assist systems need to be wireless, they’re powered by batteries that often need to be recharged.

Chair Stretchers

Stretchers can be incredibly difficult to get down stairs, and that’s where the stair chair steps in. Stair chairs are designed to keep the patient upright and strapped down in a sitting position, with versatile wheel designs that can traverse different heights (i.e. stairs). These chairs can overcome stairs with ease and are also equipped with grip handles, so first responders can quickly remove a patient and transport them to the hospital. 

Rescue and Transport Stretchers

Not all stretchers look and function the same as those used in ambulances and hospitals. For rescue situations, tight areas, or rugged wilderness, there are specialized stretchers available to overcome these obstacles and transport victims to medical care. The Hill-Rom P8005 Transport Stretcher offers excellent mobility, quality, and comfort.

Scoop Stretchers

As the name suggests, these stretchers enable patients to be “scooped” in, which speeds up rescue and transport time in an emergency. When a patient must be moved fast, these stretchers can quickly scoop or roll the patient onto the board with minimal assistance and remove them from the situation. They’re often equipped with handholds for easy grasping.

Rescue Stretchers

This category includes basket stretchers, pole stretchers, inflatable mattresses, and extrication devices, all of which are best for wilderness rescue, rough terrain, or other risky environments. These rescue devices are lightweight and compact, without sacrificing durability and weight capacity to rescue victims. Some are even buoyant for water rescue situations.

Pediatric Stretchers

There are a host of pediatric and infant care stretchers available in the case where a pediatric patient is present at an emergency. Pediatric straps can secure a child to any adult-size ambulance stretcher, and Pedigo produces a crib stretcher for newborns and infants. For in-hospital use, crib stretchers are available to safely transport pediatric patients.

Stretcher Accessories

Stretchers can be accompanied by a whole host of accessories that assist in transport and rescue. Flotation collars can surround a basket stretcher to keep it buoyant, while litter bridles allow lightweight stretchers to be airlifted in rough terrain. To keep patients safe, a variety of approved straps and harnesses are available. Some require adjustment, while others can be clipped quickly in an emergency. 

Protecting and maintaining stretchers will also benefit their longevity. As such, MFI carries replacement mattresses for when old mattresses become damaged or worn from use. In addition, purchasing a storage case or wall mount allows for safer storage. 

For handling bariatric patients who may not otherwise fit on a standard stretcher, bariatric boards are available to widen the space on a stretcher for patient comfort. Bariatric handles can be installed on stretchers to allow ease of movement for the responders as well. 

See Our Stretcher Specials

Not only does MFI Medical strive to offer a wide variety of equipment you need, we also strive to bring you the best pricing. By working closely with brands you trust, MFI brings deals and discounts on the items you need. Be sure to check out our Specials page for the latest deals, and check back frequently as these discounts may change throughout the year.