Comparison of Patient Comfort and Acceleration Exposure During Lifting and Loading Operations Using Manual and
Yutaka Takei1, Gen Toyama1, Tetsuhiro Adachi1
1Graduate School of Health and Welfare, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata, Japan.
Prehospital Emergency Care
|January 9, 2025
Summary
Powered stretchers significantly reduce patient discomfort and vibrations during transport compared to manual stretchers. This technology enhances patient safety and the quality of care in prehospital settings.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Emergency Medicine
- Human Factors Engineering
Background:
- Patient transportation in prehospital settings involves manual lifting and loading, posing risks of discomfort and injury.
- Assessing the impact of different stretcher types on patient experience and physical forces is crucial for improving care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effects of powered versus manual stretchers on perceived patient comfort and measured acceleration during lifting and loading operations.
- To evaluate the efficacy of a powered stretcher (Power-PRO XT) against three manual stretchers (Matsunaga GT, Exchange 4070, Scad Mate).
Main Methods:
- A laboratory-based crossover study involving 41 participants (firefighters and paramedic students) simulating patient transport maneuvers.
- Collected linear acceleration data using a nine-axis inertial measurement unit and administered a 23-item comfort questionnaire.
- Utilized nonparametric statistical tests due to non-normal data distribution.
Main Results:
- The powered stretcher significantly reduced vertical axis (Z-axis) root mean square (RMS) and peak accelerations compared to manual stretchers (e.g., RMS acceleration: 0.29 m/s² vs. 0.73 m/s²).
- Participants reported significantly higher comfort ratings for the powered stretcher, describing it as more comfortable, secure, likeable, smooth, and relaxing.
- No significant differences were found between powered and some manual stretchers (Exchange 4070, Matsunaga GT, Scad Mate) on specific acceleration axes (X, Y, Z).
Conclusions:
- Powered stretchers substantially minimize patient discomfort and vibrations during simulated prehospital transport.
- The findings suggest powered stretchers are a promising tool for enhancing patient safety and the quality of care.
- Further research may explore real-world clinical settings to validate these laboratory findings.
