5-25. SCOOP STRETCHER

A scoop stretcher is a metal stretcher which disassembles into a right and left half. These halves are assembled around the patient. The advantage is that this piece of equipment allows for spinal immobilization with minimal patient movement.

a. Indication for Use. A scoop stretcher can be used in these instances:

• A patient with a suspected spinal injury.
• Special rescue situations requiring vertical movement of the patient.
• A patient with a fractured pelvis.

b. Procedure. Follow this procedure to use the scoop stretcher:

(1) Apply the cervical collar and manually immobilize the head and neck (for patients with suspected spinal injury).

(2) Adjust the stretcher to the length of the patient.

(3) Separate the stretcher into right and left halves.

(4) Position the stretcher halves on opposite sides of the patient.

(5) Slightly log roll the patient away from you and slide the stretcher half under the patient on both sides.

(6) Assemble the head end of the stretcher.

(7) Logroll the patient toward you while the other rescuer brings the foot ends of the stretcher together and latches them in place.

(8) Pad the patient's head.

(9) Secure the patient's trunk and lower extremities with three straps positioned at the patient's chest, pelvis, and the knees.

(10) Immobilize the patient's head with a forehead strap.