The effect of stretcher type on safety and ease of treatment in an emergency department

Aim: Stretchers are frequently used to transport patients in the emergency department. Safety and comfort of the stretcher are important factors for the staff and patients. The present study investigated the effect of stretcher type on patient safety and treatment in an emergency department. Materials and methods: Doctors, nurses, interns, emergency medical technicians, and patient caregivers at the Abant İzzet Baysal University Medical Faculty Hospital emergency department completed a questionnaire on stretcher safety and comfort. Six stretchers were classical (group A), 6 had new technological specifications (group B), and 6 stretchers in group C were similar to those in group B in terms of technological specifications but were more expensive. Results: A total of 139 questionnaires were completed between 15 January and 29 February 2012 (group A: 42; group B: 66; group C: 31). We found statistically significant differences in ratings between group A and groups B and C (P 0.05); however, no significant difference was found between groups B and C (P 0.05). Conclusion: The safety and comfort of stretchers with satisfactory ergonomics and moderate cost are similar to those of higher-priced stretchers.