Spine Board vs. Scoop Stretcher: Which One is Best for Patient Transport?

Did you have any idea that for trauma injuries, time is of the essence, and having the appropriate stretcher can change recovery to recovery or complication? According to EMS World, as much as 50% of spinal injuries are claimed to worsen due to lack of proper transport equipment. This supports the fact that deciding between a spine board and a scoop stretcher is not a matter of preference but a life saving choice.

Which one should you use for patient transport? Let's elucidate.

Understanding the Equipment

First, let’s identify each tool. A spine board is a type of board used for immobilizing a patient with suspected spinal injuries. It is usually equipped with straps to hold the patient in place and handles for lifting them. On the other side, a scoop stretcher has two parts which can be “scooped” under the patient without moving them as two separate pieces. This type of movement is crucial, particularly for spinal injuries.

When to use a spine board ?

• EMS rescues
• Road traffic accidents
• Falls from height
• Aquatic rescues

When to use a scoop stretcher ?

• Road accidents
• Sports injuries
• Industrial accidents
• Falls and trauma cases
• Search and rescue missions 

Key Differences 

When the question of safe patient transit arrives , choosing the right equipment is absolutely necessary. Both of these stretchers play an important role but they have their own distinct features and uses as well. Let's have a look at them.

Design and Structure

Scoop Stretcher

• Construction: The scoop stretcher consists of two separate halves that can be "scooped" under a patient without lifting them.

• Flexibility: It is designed to conform to the patient’s body, making it ideal for quick and safe transfers.

• Weight: Generally lightweight and easy to handle, it can be folded for compact storage.

Spine Board

• Construction: A spine board is a solid, rigid board designed to immobilize the entire body.

• Stability: Its inflexible design provides excellent support for patients with suspected spinal injuries.

• Weight: Typically heavier and bulkier, it may be more challenging to maneuver in tight spaces.

Functionality

Scoop Stretcher

• Use Case: Great for cases requiring fast transportation, particularly where the patient is awake and responsive.

•  Movement: Reduces movement during the transfer, which is helpful for non-spinal injuries.

• Application: Great for extricating patients from difficult or confined places like vehicles.

Spine Board

•  Use Case: Critical for patients with suspected spinal injuries. Must ensure complete immobilization and stability throughout transport.

• Movement: Aids in maintaining spinal alignment which is essential to avoid additional injuries.

•  Application: Frequently in use in trauma cases involving falls or accidents with suspected spinal injuries.

Safety and Patient Comfort

Scoop Stretcher

• Comfort: Offers more comfort for the patient due to its flexible design.

• Security: Patients can be secured quickly with straps, allowing for swift movement without compromising safety.

Spine Board

• Comfort: The rigid surface may be less comfortable, especially for patients with other injuries.

• Security: Provides a secure way to immobilize the patient, which is critical in trauma care.

Portability and Storage

Scoop Stretcher

• Portability: Lightweight and easy to transport, making it suitable for various settings.

• Storage: Its foldable design allows for convenient storage in ambulances and emergency kits.

Spine Board

• Portability: Heavier and bulkier, it may require more effort to carry.
• Storage: Needs more space for storage, as it typically doesn’t fold.

Benefits of Each

Both have advantages and disadvantages in the use. The spine board is best for immobilization particularly when there's a suspicion of a spinal injury. Rigid design prevents further injury while transporting.

The scoop stretcher, on the other hand, shines when it comes to speed and efficiency. This allows for prompt patient transfer, therefore reducing on-scene time. In addition, its design is much less likely to spread out injuries which makes it safer for some patients.

So, Which One is Best?

It depends on the situation. For rapid immobilization and quick transport in trauma environments? Use a spine board.

Felt lifting and patient comfort ( especially in tight places ) better with a scoop stretcher.

But generally both should be part of your emergency response kit because they 're for different purposes and when used correctly they complement each other.

Ready To Buy The Best One?

Contact Mobimedical Supply Today !

Take a look at our Best Products

• MOBI Evac Sled - Ideal for confined spaces, the smooth, lightweight MOBI board secures patients easily and compacts for storage.

• 6F Spine Board -Durable, X-ray compatible MOBI spine board is MRI/CT-scan safe and latex-free for versatile medical use.

• MOBI 4AB Scoop Stretcher -This stretcher transfers injured patients, minimizing movement. It's lightweight, adjustable, and made from high-strength aluminum for safety.

• Scoop Stretcher Pro - Features include twin safety locks, recessed head for cervical alignment, four length options, easy-to-clean polymer, and X-ray translucency.