Mountain stretcher
The mountain stretcher is a rescue device that is used by mountain rescue services to transport patients and material in rough terrain. It is usually made of metal and has four adjustable handles. A wheel set can be mounted under the stretcher, which can take a large part of the patient's weight. In this way, longer stretches can be conquered in a somewhat gentle way for the patient and energy-saving for the mountain rescuer. The wheel set can also be used on stony paths. The mountain stretcher offers the patient protection from stones during transport thanks to the metal lying surface. Some models have a kind of metal railing on the side to prevent the load from slipping.
Depending on the type of terrain and the load, the mountain stretcher is led by one or more mountain rescuers. In fairly passable terrain such as hiking trails, one rescuer usually holds the stretcher at each end. In difficult terrain or with heavy loads, additional helpers are added. Steep passages can be overcome with a rope. The mountain stretcher is attached to the rope safety device at the upper end. At the lower end, the mountain rescuer hangs on the mountain stretcher with his climbing harness. This enables control with the hands. By pulling through your own body, the stretcher can be easily relieved from the floor. A lateral safety device in the manner of a pendulum can also be used when crossing steep terrain.
After initial medical care, the patient is usually equipped with a helmet and placed on a vacuum mattress , possibly in a warming bag, and secured with straps. This is followed by the removal and handover to the road-based rescue service or the rescue helicopter . The mountain stretcher can also be used for helicopter transport (also on a rescue winch ) or lowered horizontally on the rope. Especially if the patient has injuries to the lower extremities, a rescue seat is used as a supplement : the rescue seat is placed on the patient and stretched upwards; this relieves the legs of the body weight and protects them.
The mountain stretcher can be used in all seasons. In the snow , however, an Akia is usually used , as it glides better and sinks less.
There are mountain stretchers with metal pipes and plastic tubs that can be divided halfway. Each half can be strapped onto a rescuer's rucksack in such a way that the handlebars stick out upwards.
Web links
- Tyromont - a supplier's catalog
Individual evidence
- ↑ Mountaineer on Rax fatally injured orf. September 26, 2017, accessed October 2, 2017.