AU2012200123A1 - Multipurpose apparatus and methods for lifting, positioning, and carrying patients - Google Patents

Abstract

One embodiment of a stretcher (100) with storable and deployable extenders (51OA-D) with affixed extender handles (512) to lift, position, and carry a patient and storable and deployable securement arms (7 1OA-D) to secure the patient. Sleeves (514) store extenders (51OA-D) and securement arms ( 7 1OA-D). Multiple handles (124) are affixed to outer supports (110, 112). Multiple handles (512) are affixed to the extenders (51OA-E). These multiple handles (124, 512) allow patient attendants to safely and comfortably lift, position, and carry a patient according to the patient attendants' needs and heights. The extender (510E) stabilizes the patient. The stretcher (100) and the extender (510E) can be combined with other patient handling devices already used in the field. U.S. Patents Patent Number Issue Date Patentee 5720303 1998-02-24 Richardson 6128796 2000-10-10 McCormick, Salyers, McCormick 6276006 2001-08-21 Holt 6851145 2005-02-08 Smith, McBrayer, Schuler 7614102 2009-11-10 Helt, Weber, Sanzio 7669264 2010-04-02 Moses 2002/0026667 2002-04-07 Berry 2005/0204470 2005-09-22 Main, Bennett, Bennett 2006/0289573 2006-12-28 Mantuano Jr, Strachan It Fm71 F'bg LcFT

Description

MULTIPURPOSE APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR LIFTING, POSITIONING, AND CARRYING PATIENTS CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] Not applicable. STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH [0002] Not applicable. NAMES OF PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT [0003] Not applicable. REFERENCE TO A SEQUENCE LISTING [0004] Not applicable. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention [0005] This application relates to stretchers, particularly to stretchers that have multiple functions and can be combined with other patient handling devices. 2. Description of the Related Art [0006] Patient attendants such as firefighters, paramedics, health care employees, and volunteers must lift, position, and carry patients to and from many precarious locations. Numerous devices are available to assist patient attendants to lift, position, or carry patients. But a need still exists for one device that is portable, light-weight, quickly deployable, 1 easily stored, cleanable, versatile, and which can be combined with other devices. Such a device must address the need to prevent injury to the patient attendant and the patient alike. [0007] There are numerous examples of stretchers in the prior art. U.S. patents 5,720,303; 6,128,796; 6,851,145; 7,624,458; 7,669,264; and U.S. patent application 2006/0289573 are some examples of prior art stretchers. Persons of ordinary skill in this art have recognized the need for a portable, light-weight stretcher. However, the handles of prior art stretchers are fixed around the perimeter and are not offered at varying vertical spacing. [0008] The sling of U.S. patent 6,276,006 provides a device to transfer a disabled person from an "aisle chair" to a passenger seat on an aircraft. The sling assists attendants in the transfer without having to place their hands about the person. This device has limited use in an emergency setting where versatility is essential. [0009] The inventor in U.S. patent 7,614,102 recognized the need for a device that allows a patient attendant to lift from a more ergonomically correct position. However, the device taught in this patent is rigid, requires hinges, and is wider than a normal stretcher. It would be difficult to use in tight quarters. [0010] The device taught in U.S. patent application 2002/0026667 may not be as stable as would be desirable. The patient attendants must assist with balancing patients within the sling. This creates a precarious situation where a patient attendant must hold the device with one hand and balance the patient with the other. If the patient attendant holds the sling with two hands, patients must balance themselves. Incapacitated or debilitated patients are unable to do so. 2 [0011] The inventor in U.S. patent application 2005/0204470 recognized the need for a device that reduces injuries to patient attendants, reduces labor costs, is simple and versatile, and is low in cost. The application claims a single strap with tiered handles. This single-strap design may have several disadvantages. Four devices are required to lift the patient's entire body. The application specifies that three devices could be used to lift a patient. According to the application, the three devices are placed around the patient's back - opposite the chest - and around the hips and calves. This process leaves the patient's head without support. A fourth device may be required to support the head. As specified, each device requires two patient attendants. Therefore, four devices require 8 patient attendants. Four patient attendants could hold a separate device in each hand to reduce the number of patient attendants needed. However, this creates the probability that the devices would slide about the patient. This would create a situation that can injure the patient or injure the patient further. As configured, the device of U.S. patent application 2005/0204470 could not fit into handholds of a common backboard. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0012] In accordance with one embodiment a lifting, positioning, and carrying stretcher is comprised of support members, securement members, and grasping devices at varying vertical spacing. Devices that support and secure a patient help to ensure patient safety. Grasping devices at varying vertical spacing help to ensure patient attendant safety. Providing handles at varying vertical spacing would allow patient attendants of different heights to use handles best suited to their stature. 3 [0013] For the purposes of this disclosure, the word "securement" means securing of the patient carried in the stretcher. [0014] Accordingly several advantages of one or more aspects are to provide a stretcher for lifting, positioning, and carrying that helps to prevent injuries to patient attendants, that helps to prevent injuries - or additional injuries - to patients by possessing the following attributes: light in weight, quickly deployable, easily cleaned, compact, easily stored, inexpensive to manufacture, does not significantly interfere with an x-ray, and has the ability to be combined with other products already used by patient attendants. Another advantage is to provide a stretcher that allows patient attendants to lift from a more ergonomically correct position regardless of the varying heights of patient attendants. Still another advantage is that the stretcher can be used according to the needs and imagination of patient attendants. Depending upon the size of the patient to be lifted, up to 10 patient attendants may use the stretcher at one time. This further reduces the likelihood of injury to the patient attendants and the patient. These and other advantages of one or more aspects will become apparent from a consideration of the ensuing description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS [0015] Figure 1 shows a top view of one embodiment with appendages stored. [0016] Figure 2 shows points of reference to various distances along one embodiment. [0017] Figure 3 shows points of reference to various distances along one embodiment. 4 [0018] Figure 4 shows points of reference to various distances along one embodiment. [0019] Figure 5 shows a top view of one embodiment with appendages deployed. [0020] Figure 6 shows points of reference to various distances along one embodiment. [0021] Figure 7 shows a top view of one embodiment with appendages deployed. [0022] Figure 8 shows a top view of one component of one embodiment. [0023] Figure 9 shows a bottom view of the same component in Figure 8. [0024] Figure 10 shows a top view of a portion of one embodiment. [0025] Figure 11 shows a bottom view of the same portion in Figure 10. [0026] Figure 12 shows a bottom view of the same portion in Figure 10. [0027] Figure 13 shows a bottom view of the same portion in Figure 10. [0028] Figure 14 shows one embodiment positioned next to a patient in a lateral recumbent position. [0029] Figure 15 shows a patient being secured to one embodiment. [0030] Figure 16 shows a patient secured to one embodiment. [0031] Figure 17 shows appendages being deployed from one embodiment. [0032] Figure 18 shows patient attendants in an ergonomically correctly position prior to lifting a patient. 5 [0033] Figure 19 shows a lifted patient with one embodiment from a supine position. [0034] Figure 20 shows one embodiment positioned underneath a patient. [0035] Figure 21 shows one appendage of one embodiment wrapped about a patient and forming an "X" in front of the patient. [0036] Figure 22 shows a patient lifted with one embodiment from a seated position. [0037] Figure 23 shows a patient lifted from an emergency situation using one embodiment wrapped around the patient. [0038] Figure 24 shows one appendage of one embodiment threaded into a handle on a backboard. [0039] Figure 25 shows one appendage of one embodiment threaded out of a handle on a backboard. [0040] Figure 26 shows one appendage of one embodiment positioned within handles on a backboard. [0041] Figure 27 shows patient attendants in an ergonomically correctly position prior to lifting a patient using four separate appendages of one embodiment threaded through handles of a backboard. [0042] Figure 28 shows a lifted patient using four separate appendages of one embodiment threaded through handles of a backboard. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 1. First Embodiment [0043] One embodiment of a stretcher 100 is illustrated in Fig. 1. The stretcher 100 has a top view and a bottom view. Individual components 6 have a top view and a bottom view. Individual components have a right side and a left side. Individual components have an inner edge toward a center point 122 (Fig. 1). Individual components have an outer edge away from the center point 122. Individual components have a midpoint half way between the right and left sides. Individual components have a medial line that runs the center-length of each component. All of the aforementioned points of reference are considered from the top view of the stretcher 100. [0044] The supporting components of the stretcher 100 can be made of 7.62 cm webbing, strapping, or canvas material. The grasping devices can be made of 5.08 cm webbing, strapping, or canvas material. The securement devices can be made of 5.08 cm webbing, strapping, or canvas material coupled with equally wide hook-and-loop material. However, all the supporting components, grasping devices, and securement devices can be made of other suitable flexible material and sizes or a combination thereof. All points of attachment can be affixed by stitching, adhesive, thermo-forming/heat bonding, or a combination thereof. Other methods of affixing the components are also suitable. [0045] The stretcher 100 consists of a right outer support 110 and a left outer support 112 (Fig. 1). The outer supports, 110 and 112, are 203.2 cm long and are positioned parallel and equidistant to each other. An outer edge of the outer support 110 is 60.96 cm apart from an outer edge of the outer support 112. A series of cross supports 11 6 A-F (Fig. 1) is affixed to the outer supports 110 and 112. The cross supports 1 16 A-F are 76.2 cm long before being affixed. The cross supports 1 16 A-F are placed on a top view of the outer supports 110 and 112 at distances equal to 4

RO

4 R5/ 4

LO-

4 L5 (Fig. 4). The cross supports 1 16 A-F overlap the outer edges of 7 the outer supports 110 and 112 by 7.62 cm. Overlap portions of the cross supports 11 6 A-F are folded to a bottom view of the outer supports 110 and 112. The cross supports 11 6 A-F are affixed to the outer supports 110 and 112 at the aforementioned intersections. [0046] A series of handles 124 (Fig. 1) is made from 5.08 cm webbing 35.56 cm long. The handles 124 are affixed to the outer supports 110 and 112. The handles 124 are affixed to the right outer support 110 at distances equal to 2 R0- 2 R11 (Fig. 2). The handles 124 are affixed to the left outer support 112 at distances equal to 2

LO-

2 L11 (Fig. 2). The handles 124 are affixed by placing a first end of the handles 124 at an inner edge of the outer supports 110 and 112 at the aforementioned distances. A second end of the handles 124 is looped 360 degrees around the outer supports 110 and 112. The second end of the handles 124 is passed by the first end of the handles 124 and stops at the outer edge of the outer supports 110 and 112. The handles 124 are then affixed to the outer supports 110 and 112 at the overlapped portions. Other methods of affixing the handles 124 are also suitable. [0047] A series of extenders 5 10 A-E (Fig. 5) is made from 7.62 cm webbing 182.88 cm long. A series of extender handles 512 (Fig. 5) is made from 5.08 cm webbing 35.56 cm long. [0048] The handles 512 are affixed to the extenders 5 10 A-E at distances 6

RO-

6 R3 and 6

LO-

6 L3 (Fig. 6). The distances 6

RO-

6 R3 are measured from an edge three 610. The distances 6

LO-

6 L3 are measured from an edge four 612. The handles 512 are affixed by placing a first end of the handles 512 at an inner edge of the extenders 5 10 A-E at the aforementioned distances. A second end of the handles 512 is then looped 360 degrees around the extenders 51 0 A-E. The second end of the 8 handles 512 is passed by the first end of the handles 512 and stops at an outer edge of the extenders 51 0 A-E. The handles 512 are affixed to the extenders 5 1 0 A-E at the overlapped portions. Other methods of affixing the handles 512 are also suitable. [0049] A midpoint of the extenders 51 0 A-D iS positioned halfway between the outer edges of the top view of the outer supports 110 and 112. The extenders 5 10 A-D are positioned at respective distances equal to 3 Ro 3 L0, 3 R1' 3 L1, 3 R2/ 3 L2, and 3 R3/ 3 L3 (Fig. 3). The extenders 5 10 A-D are affixed to the outer supports 110 and 112 at the aforementioned distances. [0050] A series of four of the extenders 5 1 0 E is fabricated. The extenders 5 10 E are not affixed to the stretcher 100. [0051] A middle support 114 (Fig. 1) 187.96 cm long is positioned on a top view along a midpoint of the cross supports 11 6 A-F and the midpoint of the extenders 5 10 A-D. A first end of the middle support 114 overlaps the outer edge of the extender 5 10 A by 7.62 cm. A second end of the middle support 114 overlaps an outer edge of the cross support 1 16 F by 7.62 cm. An overlap portion of the first end of the middle support 114 is folded to a bottom view of the extender 510A- An overlap portion of the second end of the middle support 114 is folded to a bottom view of the cross support 116F. The middle support 114 is affixed to the extenders 51 0 A-D and the cross supports 11 6 A-F at the intersecting points. [0052] A series of securement arms 7 10 A&B (Fig. 7) is made of 5.08 cm webbing 243.84 cm long. A series of securement arms 7 10 c&D (Fig. 7) is made of 5.08 cm webbing 182.88 cm long. Hook-and-loop material of equal width is affixed to a series of securement arms 71OA-D- A portion of hook material is affixed to a top view and a left side of the securement 9 arms 7 10 A-D- A portion of loop material is affixed to a bottom view and a right side of the securement arms 7 10

A-D

[0053] The securement arms 7 10 A-D are affixed to the cross supports 11 6 B-E respectively. A midpoint of the securement arms 71OA-D is positioned along a medial line of the middle support 114. The securement arms 7 10 A-D are affixed to the cross supports 1 1 6 B-E from the inner edge of the right outer support 110 to the inner edge of the left outer support 112. [0054] A series of sleeves 514 (Figs. 8, 9) is affixed to each of the extenders 5 10 A-D (Fig. 5) and the cross supports 1 1 6 B-E with the securement arms 7 10 A-D (Fig. 7). The sleeves 514 are formed from a piece of fabric 25.4 cm long by 45.72 cm wide. [0055] From a top view of the sleeves 514 (Fig. 8) a 7.62 cm wide by 8.89 cm deep notch 810 is cut from a first edge of an 45.72 cm wide side. A 7.62 cm wide by 5.715 cm deep notch 812 is cut from a second edge of a 45.72 cm wide side. [0056] A first portion of 5.08 cm loop material 814 (Fig. 8) 19.05 cm long is affixed to a left side of the first edge. A second portion of 5.08 cm loop material 816 (Fig. 8) 19.05 cm long is affixed to a right side of the first edge. [0057] From a bottom view of the sleeves 514 (Fig. 9) a first portion of 5.08 cm hook material 910 (Fig. 9) 19.05 cm long is affixed to a left side of the second edge. A second portion of 5.08 cm hook material 912 (Fig. 9) 19.05 cm long is affixed to a right side of the second edge. [0058] The sleeves 514 can be made of fabric. The components used to secure the sleeves 514 can be made of hook and loop material. However, all components of the sleeves 514 can be made of other suitable flexible material and dimensions or a combination thereof. All 10 points of attachment can be affixed by stitching, adhesive, thermo forming/heat bonding, or a combination thereof. Other methods of affixing the components are also suitable. [0059] The sleeves 514 are affixed to the extenders 5 10 A-D (Fig. 5) and the cross supports 11 6 B-E with the securement arms 71 0 A-D (Fig. 7). From the top view of the sleeves 514 (Fig. 8), the second edge of the sleeves 514 is affixed to the bottom view of the aforementioned elements. The notch 812 (Fig. 10) is centered along the medial line of the middle support 114. The right side and the left side of the second edge of the sleeves 514 are then slid from the top view to the bottom view of the stretcher 100. Fig 11 shows the bottom view of one of the sleeves 514 affixed to the extender 510D. Fig 12 shows the bottom view of one of the sleeves 514 affixed to the cross support 1 16 E with the securement arm 7 1 0D. Fig. 13 shows the bottom view of the same two of the sleeves 514 closed around the extender 5 10 D and the cross support 1 16 E with the securement arm 710D. [0060] The components of the stretcher 100 are color-coded for easy identification. For example, the supports 110, 112, 114, and 11 6 A-F can be black. The handles 124 can be blue. The 7.62 cm webbing of the extenders 5 10 A-E can be black. The handles 512 can be yellow. The securement arms 7 1 0 A&B can be red. The securement arms 7 10 c&D can be orange. Any combination of color-coding is appropriate and the examples given above should not be considered limiting. 2. Operation of the First Embodiment [0061] There are numerous methods of using the multi-purpose apparatus for lifting, positioning, and carrying patients. As described in 11 the advantages, the patient attendants can use the stretcher 100 in a myriad of ways depending upon needs and imagination. However, the basics of using the stretcher 100 are described here. Other uses of the stretcher 100 will become apparent and the operation descriptions below should not be considered limiting. [0062] In a first mode of operation, the patient attendants can assist a patient lying in a supine position from a first plane to a second plane. A first patient attendant is at the patient's right side near the head. A second patient attendant is at the patient's left side near the head. A third patient attendant is at the patient's right side near the thigh. A fourth patient attendant is at the patient's left side near the thigh. [0063] With all appendages stored within the sleeves 514 the stretcher 100 is laid next to, and parallel with, the patient. The top view of the stretcher 100 is facing down to preposition the handles 512 for the lift. The outer support 112 is positioned along the patient's right side. The edge 612 of the extender 510c is positioned near the patient's lumbar. The patient attendants perform a maneuver commonly referred to as a "log-roll" (Fig. 14). The second and fourth patient attendants pull the patient into a lateral recumbent position. The first and third patient attendants assist by pushing the patient into the lateral recumbent position. Once the patient is in the lateral recumbent position, the first and third patient attendants slide the stretcher 100 toward the patient until it touches the patient's side. The first and third patient attendants continue to push the stretcher 100 toward the patent's side until it creates a slight lengthwise fold in the stretcher 100. The patient is then "log-rolled" back into the original supine position. The stretcher 100 with the slight lengthwise fold is now positioned underneath the patient. 12 [0064] The second and fourth patient attendants grasp the outer support 110. The second and fourth patient attendants pull the stretcher 100 toward themselves until the slight lengthwise fold is removed from the stretcher 100. This action centers the stretcher 100 underneath the patient with the center point 122 underneath the patient's lumbar. [0065] While standing in their respective positions, the patient attendants ready themselves to deploy the securement arms 7 10 A-D and secure the patient to the stretcher 100. The first and second patient attendants respectively grasp a first and second end of the securement arms 7 10 A&B. The third and fourth patient attendants respectively grasp a first and second end of the securement arms 7 1 OC&D. Simultaneously, the patient attendants deploy the securement arms 7 10 A-D from the sleeves 514. The side of the securement arms 7 10 A-D with the loop material is laid across the patient first (Fig. 15). The side of the securement arms 71OA-D with the hook material is laid on top of the loop material. This action secures the patient to the stretcher 100 (Fig. 16). [0066] Standing in their respective positions, the patient attendants ready themselves to deploy the extenders 5 1 0 A-D (Fig. 17). The first and third patient attendants respectively grasp the edges 610 of the extenders 5 1 0 A&B and 5 1 OC&D. The second and fourth patient attendants respectively grasp the edges 612 of the extenders 5 1 0 A&B and 5 10 C&D. Simultaneously, the patient attendants deploy the extenders 5 10 A-D from the sleeves 514. [0067] Prior to lifting the patient, the patient attendants determine how high the patient will be lifted. Higher lifts require lower handles to be grasped. Lower lifts require higher handles to be grasped. The patient attendants choose the handles 512 according to two factors: (1) handles comfortable with their own height, and (2) handles most advantageous 13 according to the agreed height of the lift. The patient attendants respectively grasp one of the handles 512 from each side of the extenders 51 0

A-D

[0068] The patient attendants position themselves in their respective positions near the patient (Fig. 18). Arms are in a near-vertical position. With knees bent and backs as straight as possible and while respectively grasping the handles 512, the patient attendants stand in unison. The patient is lifted to the predetermined height and can be carried and repositioned from the first plane to the second plane (Fig. 19). [0069] In a second mode of operation, the patient attendants can assist the patient from a first seated position on a third plane to a second seated position on a fourth plane. The first patient attendant is at the patient's right side. The second patient attendant is at the patient's left side. The third patient attendant is in front of the patient. [0070] The first and second patient attendants lay the stretcher 100 behind, and perpendicular to the sitting patient. The top view of the stretcher 100 is facing down to preposition the handles 124 for the lift. The outer support 110 is positioned next to the patient. The edge 610 of the extender 51 Oc is positioned near the patient's tail bone. Grasping the outer support 110, the first and second patient attendants slide the stretcher 100 back and forth until the stretcher 100 is underneath the patient. The stretcher 100 is in place once the center point 122 is underneath the patient's tailbone (Fig. 20). [0071] An alternative method of positioning the stretcher 100 in this mode is as follows. If needed, the patient attendants assist the sitting patient to lay back into a supine position. The stretcher 100 is positioned underneath the patient's legs and perpendicular to the patient. The top 14 view of the stretcher 100 is facing down to preposition the handles 124 for the lift. The outer support 112 is positioned next to the patient with the edge 612 of the extender 510c positioned near the patient's lower buttocks. Grasping the outer support 112 the first and second patient attendants slide the stretcher 100 back and forth until the stretcher 100 is underneath the patient's buttocks. The stretcher 100 is in place once the center point 122 is underneath the patient's tailbone. The patient is then assisted back into a sitting position (Fig. 20). [0072] The third patient attendant uses the extender 5 1 0 E to help prevent the patient from falling during the lift (Fig. 21). A midpoint of the extender 5 1 0 E is placed near a midpoint of the patient's thoracic opposite the patient's chest. The edge 610 of the extender 5 1 0 E is passed underneath the patient's right arm. The edge 612 of the extender 5 1 0 E is passed underneath the patient's left arm. The edges 610 and 612 of the extender 51 0 E are crossed in front of the patient thereby creating an "X" in front of the patient. The edge 610 of the extender 51 0 E is in front of the patient on the patient's left side. The edge 612 of the extender 5 1 0 E is in front of the patient on the patient's right side. The third patient attendant grasps one of the extender handles 512 from each side of the extender 5 1 0E- Larger patients require grasping the handles 512 closer to the edges 610 and 612. Smaller patients require grasping the handles 512 closer to the midpoint of the extender 510E- With the "X" formed in front of the patient and the handles 512 grasped, the third patient attendant is in position. [0073] Prior to lifting the patient, the first and second patient attendants determine how high the patient will be lifted. Higher lifts require lower handles to be grasped. Lower lifts require higher handles to 15 be grasped. The patient attendants choose the handles 124 according to two factors: (1) handles comfortable with their own height, and (2) handles most advantageous according to the agreed height of the lift. The first and second patient attendants prepare to grasp the stretcher 100 by standing to the patient's right and left side respectively. The first and second patient attendants roll the ends of the stretcher 100 toward the patient's side. The roll stops with sufficient remaining length to allow the lift in accordance with the above two factors. [0074] The patient attendants position themselves in their respective positions near the patient. The first and second patient attendants respectively grasp one of the handles 124 from each of the outer supports 110 and 112. The first and second patient attendants' arms are near vertical in position. The third patient attendant's arms are near horizontal in position toward the patient. With knees bent and backs as straight as possible and while respectively grasping the handles 124, the first and second patient attendants stand in unison. Simultaneously, the third patient attendant pulls slightly on the extender 5 1 0 E to prevent the patient from falling back, and out of, the stretcher 100. The patient is lifted to the predetermined height and can be carried and repositioned from the first seated position on the third plane to the second seated position on the fourth plane (Fig. 22). [0075] In a third mode of operation (Fig. 23), the patient attendants can assist the patient in an injured state from wreckage in a confined area. The purpose of the third mode is to quickly envelop the patient and pull or drag the patient to an area for treatment. The patient in this situation is normally in a seated or supine position. For example, the third mode of operation can be used to assist the injured patient from a wrecked vehicle. 16 However, the operation described here can be adapted to other wreckage situations. [0076] The first patient attendant is positioned at the patient's right side. The second patient attendant is positioned at the patient's left side. The third patient attendant is positioned behind the patient. [0077] With all appendages stored within the sleeves 514 the stretcher 100 is laid next to, and parallel with the patient. The top view of the stretcher 100 is facing down to preposition the handles 124 and 512 for the lift. The first patient attendant positions the stretcher 100 next to the patient with the outer support 112 next to the patient's left side. The edge 612 of the extender 510D is positioned next to the patient's lower buttocks. The edge 612 of the extender 51 Oc is positioned next to the patient's lumbar. The second patient attendant reaches underneath and behind the patient to grasp two of the handles 124 along the outer support 112. The second patient attendant pulls the stretcher 100 into position underneath the patient. The first and third patient attendants assist by pushing and pulling the stretcher 100 into position. The stretcher 100 is in position when: the midpoint of the extender 51 0 D is just below a midpoint of the patient's lower buttocks, the midpoint of the extender 510c near a midpoint of the patient's lumbar, and the midpoint of the extender 5 1 0 B is near the midpoint of the patient's thoracic. [0078] The first and second patient attendants reach between the patient's legs and grasp the handles 124 at positions 2 R11 and 2 L11. The first and second patient attendants pull a bottom portion of the stretcher 100 by the handles 124 from between the patient's legs to an outside of the patient's sides. This creates a basket for the patient to sit in. 17 [0079] The first patient attendant grasps two of the handles 124 along the outer support 110. The first patient attendant grasps the handle 124 at position 2 R11 first. The first patient attendant grasps another of the handles 124, from a comfortable position and near the patient's lumbar, on the outer support 110. The second patient attendant grasps two of the handles 124 along the outer support 112. The second patient attendant grasps the handle 124 at position 2 L11. The second patient attendant grasps another of the handles 124, from a comfortable position and near the patient's lumbar, on the outer support 112. The third patient attendant grasps two of the handles 124; one from the outer support 110 and one from the outer support 112. The third patient attendant grasps the handles 124 such that the patient's head is supported within the stretcher 100. With handles grasped and the patient attendants in respective positions, the patient is ready to be removed from the wreckage. [0080] Simultaneously, the patient attendants pull/slide the patient from the wreckage to an area of safety. As an addition to this mode of operation, a bottom portion of a conventional backboard is placed near the patient's head and in-line with the patient. As the patient attendants pull the patient from the wreckage, they then pull/slide the patient onto the backboard. The additional step can help to prevent further injury to the patient. [0081] In a fourth mode of operation, a series of the extenders 5 1 0 E can be used to assist patient attendants to lift the patient already packaged on the backboard. The purpose of the fourth mode is to assist patient attendants to lift the patient from a more ergonomically correct position. Traditionally, patient attendants must lift from a walking surface. 18 This forces patient attendants to bend over and use back muscles. Each of the patient attendants uses a separate one of the extenders 5 1 0

E

[0082] The backboard has several handholds along two sides for patient attendants to grasp and lift the patient. A first handhold is near a top of the backboard's right side. A second handhold is approximately 30.48 cm toward the center of the backboard from the first handhold. A third handhold is near the bottom of the backboard's right side. A fourth handhold is approximately 30.48 cm toward the center of the backboard from the third handhold. A fifth handhold is near the top of the backboard's left side. A sixth handhold is approximately 30.48 cm toward the center of the backboard from the fifth handhold. A seventh handhold is near the bottom of the backboard's left side. An eighth handhold is approximately 30.48 cm toward the center of the backboard from the seventh handhold. [0083] The first patient attendant is positioned at the patient's right side near the head. The second patient attendant is positioned at the patient's left side near the head. The third patient attendant is positioned at the patient's right side near the thigh. The fourth patient attendant is positioned at the patient's left side near the thigh. [0084] The first patient attendant threads the edge 610 of the extender 5 10 E down through the first handhold (Fig. 24). The edge 610 of the extender 5 1 0 E is pulled through the first handhold until the midpoint of the extender 5 1 0 E is through the first handhold. The edge 610 of the extender 5 1 0 E is threaded up through the second handhold (Fig. 25). The midpoint of the extender 510E iS positioned halfway between the first handhold and the second handhold (Fig. 26). 19 [0085] The second patient attendant threads the edge 610 of the extender 5 10 E down through the fifth handhold (Fig. 24). The edge 610 of the extender 5 1 0 E is pulled through the fifth handhold until the midpoint of the extender 5 1 0E is through the fifth handhold. The edge 610 of the extender 5 1 0 E is threaded up through the sixth handhold (Fig. 25). The midpoint of the extender 510E iS positioned halfway between the fifth handhold and the sixth handhold (Fig. 26). [0086] The third patient attendant threads the edge 610 of the extender 5 1 OE down through the third handhold (Fig. 24). The edge 610 of the extender 5 1 0 E is pulled through the third handhold until the midpoint of the extender 5 1 0E is through the third handhold. The edge 610 of the extender 5 1 0E is threaded up through the fourth handhold (Fig. 25). The midpoint of the extender 51 0 E iS positioned halfway between the third handhold and the fourth handhold (Fig. 26). [0087] The fourth patient attendant threads the edge 610 of the extender 5 10 E down through the seventh handhold (Fig. 24). The edge 610 of the extender 510E iS pulled through the seventh handhold until the midpoint of the extender 5 1 0 E is through the seventh handhold. The edge 610 of the extender 5 1 0E is threaded up through the eighth handhold (Fig. 25). The midpoint of the extender 510E iS positioned halfway between the seventh handhold and the eighth handhold (Fig. 26). [0088] Prior to lifting the patient, the patient attendants determine how high the patient will be lifted. Higher lifts require lower handles to be grasped. Lower lifts require higher handles to be grasped. The patient attendants choose the handles 512 according to two factors: A) handles comfortable with their own height, and B) handles most advantageous according to the agreed height of the lift. Each of the patient attendants 20 grasps one of the handles 512 from the right side of the extender 510E Each of the patient attendants grasps one of the handles 512 from the left side of the extender 5 1 0 E (Fig. 26). [0089] The patient attendants position themselves in their respective positions near the patient (Fig. 27). Arms are in a near vertical position. With knees bent and backs as straight as possible and while respectively grasping the handles 512, the patient attendants stand in unison. The patient is lifted to the predetermined height and can be carried and repositioned as needed (Fig. 28). [0090] In a fifth mode of operation, the stretcher 100 can be positioned between the patient and the backboard. The extenders 5 10 A-D can be threaded through the handholds of the backboard and used to assist patient attendants to lift the patient while on the backboard. [0091] The stretcher 100 is positioned underneath the patient using the steps of the first mode of operation. With the stretcher 100 beneath the patient, the patient attendants position the backboard beneath the patient and the stretcher 100 using techniques common to the practice. [0092] The first patient attendant is positioned at the patient's right side near the head. The second patient attendant is positioned at the patient's left side near the head. The third patient attendant is positioned at the patient's right side near the thigh. The fourth patient attendant is positioned at the patient's left side near the thigh. [0093] The first patient attendant threads the edge 612 of the extender 5 10 A down through the first handhold. The first patient attendant threads the edge 612 of the extender 5 10 B down through the second handhold. 21 [0094] The second patient attendant threads the edge 610 of the extender 5 10 A down through the fifth handhold. The second patient attendant threads the edge 610 of the extender 51 0 B down through the sixth handhold. [0095] The third patient attendant threads the edge 612 of the extender 5 10 c down through the fourth handhold. The third patient attendant threads the edge 612 of the extender 51OD down through the third handhold. [0096] The fourth patient attendant threads the edge 610 of the extender 510c down through the eighth handhold. The fourth patient attendant threads the edge 610 of the extender 5 10 D down through the seventh handhold. [0097] The patient attendants can now maneuver the patient using techniques described in previous modes of operation. [0098] In a sixth mode of operation, the stretcher 100 can be used to assist the patient attendants to carry the patient up or down stairs. Three to ten of the patient attendants may use this mode depending upon the weight of the patient. For simplicity, this mode is described using only three of the patient attendants. [0099] The patient is laid in the supine position. The first patient attendant is positioned near the patient's right hip. The second patient attendant is positioned near the patient's left hip. The third patient attendant is positioned above the patient's head. [0100] With all appendages stored within the sleeves 514 the stretcher 100 is laid next to, and parallel with the patient. The top view of the stretcher 100 is facing down to preposition the handles 124 and 512 for the lift. The stretcher 100 is positioned next to the patient with the 22 outer support 112 next to the patient's left side. The edge 612 of the extender 5 1 0 D is positioned just above the patient's knees. The edge 612 of the extender 510c is positioned near to the patient's lumbar. The stretcher 100 is then positioned and secured underneath the patient using the same "log roll" technique described in the first mode of operation. [0101] The stretcher 100 is in position when: the midpoint of the extender 510D is just above a midpoint between the patient's knees, the midpoint of the extender 510c is near a midpoint of the patient's lumbar, and the midpoint of the extender 5 1 0 B is near the midpoint of the patient's thoracic. [0102] The first and second patient attendants deploy the extenders 5 1 OC&D. The first and second patient attendants grasp the handles 512 approximately 30.48 cm from the patient's side. The third patient attendant grasps two of the handles 124; one from the outer support 110 and one from the outer support 112. The third patient attendant grasps the handles 124 such that the patient's head is supported within the stretcher 100. This creates a seat for the patient to sit and recline in while the patient attendants carry the patient up or down stairs. 3. Conclusion [0103] At least one embodiment of the stretcher of this invention provides a safer stretcher for lifting, positioning, and carrying the patient. Further, the stretcher of at least one embodiment helps to prevent injuries to patient attendants and helps to prevent injuries - or additional injuries to patients. The stretcher of at least one embodiment possesses the following attributes: light in weight, quickly deployable, easily cleaned, compact, easily stored, inexpensive to manufacture, does not interfere 23 with an x-ray, and has the ability to be combined with other products already used by patient attendants. Another advantage is that the stretcher allows patient attendants to lift from a more ergonomically correct position regardless of the varying heights of patient attendants. [0104] Still another advantage is that based on the given circumstances, the stretcher can be used according to the different needs and imagination of patient attendants. For example, the stretcher can be positioned between the patient and a backboard with the extenders of the stretcher deployed through the hand-holds in the backboard. The patient may be slid down a set of stairs while the patient attendants control the decent using the extenders. Furthermore, unattached extenders may be used during the same operation by threading them through the backboard's hand-holds at the top of the backboard and above the patient's head. [0105] Additionally, the stretcher can remain in position during the patient's transport to a medical facility. Patient attendants at the medical facility can similarly use the stretcher to maneuver the patient. Prepositioning the stretcher minimizes manipulating the patient and reduces strain on other patient attendants. [0106] Depending upon the size of the patient to be lifted, up to ten patient attendants may use the stretcher at one time. Using more patient attendants reduces the likelihood of injury to the patient attendants and the patient. [0107] While the above description contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any embodiment, but as exemplifications of the presently preferred embodiments thereof. Many other ramifications and variations are possible within the teachings 24 of the various embodiments, as will be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in this art. [0108] All stated patient attendant positions for lifts are interchangeable. All stated patient attendant positions for lifts can be duplicated, eliminated, or modified. An additional extender as described above can be attached at distance 3 R4/ 3 L4- Extenders can be duplicated, eliminated, or modified. Extenders can be affixed, non-affixed, or removable. Securement arms can be duplicated, eliminated, or modified. Outer, middle, and cross supports can be duplicated, eliminated, or modified. Outer, middle, and cross supports can be affixed at any angle. Handles and extender handles can be duplicated, eliminated, or modified. Sleeves can be duplicated, eliminated, or modified. Each element of the stretcher of at least one embodiment can be of a different width and/or length. Each element of the stretcher of at least one embodiment can be made of other material(s). Each fastener of the stretcher of at least one embodiment can be made of other material(s). Other methods of closing sleeves can be used. Each element of the stretcher of at least one embodiment can be any color. The distances 2 RO - 2 R11 and 2 LO - 2 L11 can vary. The distances 3 RO - 3 R4 and 3 LO - 3 L4 can vary. The distances 4 RO 4 R5 and 4 LO - 4 L5 can vary. The distances 6 RO - 6 R3 and 6 LO - 6 L3 can vary. The distances 1 4 RO - 14 R3 and 14 LO - 14 L3 can vary. Other methods of affixing the elements together exist. Numerous other methods of using the stretcher of at least one embodiment exist. [0109] Thus the scope of this invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the embodiments and examples disclosed. 25