Which of the following types of stretchers can be folded from the middle?

Appeared in: UP CHO - 10 September 2021

Explanation

The Utile stretcher, also known as a folding or portable stretcher, is uniquely designed to be folded in the middle.
This is possible due to hinges located at the center of its long poles.
This design allows the stretcher's length to be halved, making it exceptionally compact for storage and transport, as shown in the provided image.
This feature is crucial for emergency services and vehicles where space is limited.

Option A: A standard pole and canvas stretcher has rigid poles and does not fold from the middle. It can typically only be folded lengthwise by bringing the two poles together.
Option C: A scoop stretcher does not fold; it separates lengthwise into two halves. This mechanism is designed to 'scoop' a patient up without rolling them, which is critical for suspected spinal injuries.
Option D: An improvised stretcher is a makeshift device created from available materials (like blankets, doors, or boards) in an emergency. It lacks a standardized design and does not have a built-in folding mechanism.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of medical stretchers and their specific features as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the different types of stretchers and their functions is vital for nurses and first responders to ensure patient safety and proper handling.
Choosing the correct stretcher is critical. Using a scoop stretcher is the standard of care for suspected spinal trauma to prevent further injury, while a folding stretcher is practical for ambulance services due to space constraints.
What if? If a patient with a suspected spinal injury needs to be moved from a confined space where a scoop stretcher cannot be used, responders might have to use a flexible stretcher or log-roll the patient onto a spinal board, requiring careful coordination among the team.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key action or feature described in the question stem. Here, the key phrase is 'can be folded from the middle'.
Next, review the options provided and recall the primary characteristics of each type of stretcher.
Visually analyze the provided image. The image clearly shows a stretcher with a central hinge, folded in half. This confirms the 'folded from the middle' functionality.
Compare the key feature from the question with the characteristics of each option. A Pole and Canvas stretcher folds lengthwise. A Scoop stretcher splits lengthwise. An Improvised stretcher has no standard design.
Conclude that the 'Utile' or folding stretcher is the only option designed to fold in half from the middle for compact storage.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Potter & Perry Fundamentals of Nursing 9th Edition — Part 2 p. 254-265

Practise the full UP CHO - 10 September 2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.