Recommendations on Standards for the Design of Medical Diagnostic Equipment for Adults with Disabilities, Advisory Committee Final Report

5.4.1.1 Transfer Support Location Recommendation for Stretchers

For Stretchers, the transfer surface is oriented along the long side of the surface.

Rationale for the recommendation

Patients access stretchers on either of the long sides rather than on its end (short side). The Committee proposes to flip the orientation of the transfer surface so that the long side of the transfer support is along the long side of the stretcher. This reflects the actual use since accessing it on the end (short side) would require scooting, sliding, or twisting a long distance to lie in the proper position on the stretcher. Transfer support will be located on the opposite side of the transfer side. (see Figure 5.4.1.1)

Figure 5.4.1.1 Transfer Support Location – Plan View
(SOURCE: Stryker Medical)