Abstract: A person handling apparatus includes a deck with a seat section, a leg section, and a back section. The back section is pivotally mounted to the seat section. The leg section has a proximal end pivotally mounted to the seat section and a cantilevered end spaced a first distance from its proximal end. The seat section, the leg section, and the back section are arranged to lie in a common plane when the deck is in a supine configuration to support a person in a supine position. First and second leg assemblies are pivotally mounted to the deck to move between (1) first deployed positions wherein the first and second leg assemblies are angled relative to the deck when the deck is in the supine configuration to support the deck in a raised composition and (2) second deployed positions when the deck is supported in the chair configuration.

Abstract: Some embodiments described herein relate to a surgical table, specifically a base of a surgical table. The surgical table can be adapted to include and/or be coupled to a surgical robot. The base of the surgical table can form an enclosure including a cover and a bottom. Electronic components (e.g., power electronics associated with the surgical robot) can be disposed within the enclosure. In some embodiments described herein, the cover of the base of the surgical table can be constructed of aluminum or similar material having a thermal conductivity of at least 200 W/m K. In some embodiments described herein, a side wall of the base of the surgical table can be constructed of aluminum or similar material having a thermal conductivity of at least 200 W/m K. Other embodiments described herein describe various other solutions for thermal management of electronic components.

Abstract: A rapid water ambulance for transport of patients, comprising a sick bay solidly constrained to a structure of the water ambulance and support apparatus (10) for a stretcher, the support apparatus (10) comprises: a support column (20), a carriage (30) slidable along the column (20) in the direction of the axis (A) thereof, a support plane (11) for a stretcher, borne projectingly by the carriage (30) and solidly constrained thereto, a damped suspension device (33), constrained to the carriage (30) and to the column (20), which supports the support plane (11) at an operating height, wherein the axis (A) of the support column (20) is inclined with respect to the perpendicular direction to a floor (P) plane of the sick bay and lies in a vertical plane parallel to the motion direction of the water ambulance.

Abstract: A patient transport apparatus having a table configured to support a patient, a base attached to the table, a docking system attached to the base, the docking system configured to couple to a mating docking system of an MR imaging system, and a plurality of bays formed in the base, with each bay configured to receive a patient care module therein. The patient transport apparatus further includes a control system configured to be electrically coupled to each patient care module received within the plurality of bays and configured to centrally control each patient care module.

Abstract: A patient transfer system includes a patient transfer assembly and a patient transfer device. The assembly includes a sheet of corrugatable material, at least one stiffener that resists corrugation of the sheet in a first dimension when the patient transfer assembly including the sheet corrugated in a second dimension is inserted between the patient and a surface of a first resting device on which the patient rests. The sheet includes portions at which pulling in a direction along the second dimension decorrugates the sheet between the patient and the surface and fasteners. The device includes a sheet engaging assembly that pulls at least one of the fasteners in a direction along the first dimension to slide the decorrugated sheet relative to the surface thereby transferring the patient.

Abstract: Powered patient support apparatuses—such as beds, cots, stretchers, or the like—include a plurality of user controls that allow a caregiver to control the steering and/or driving of one or more powered wheels from multiple different locations around the patient support apparatus (e.g. head end, foot end, and/or the sides). The control is carried out by force sensors that detect both an orientation of the applied forces and a magnitude of the applied forces. Translational and/or rotational movement is effectuated, depending upon the magnitude and direction of the forces, as well as the physical location of the applied force relative to a reference point on the support apparatus, such as the center. One or more object sensors may also be included in the support apparatus to assist in steering and/or navigating.

Abstract: Life support litters (10) include a bed assembly (20) including a mattress (26) connected to a mattress frame (25), a chassis assembly (30) connected to and supporting the mattress frame, the chassis assembly operable to secure the life support litter to a transport vehicle, and a plurality of vibration dampeners (40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 50, 54, 60, 61, 39, 26), disposed about the life support litter and operable to reduce vibrations of a plurality of frequencies, wherein the plurality of vibration dampeners comprises a first vibration dampener operable to reduce vibrations of a first frequency range from a first vibration source and a second vibration dampener operable to reduce vibrations of a second frequency range from a second vibration source and wherein the first frequency range is different than the second frequency range.

Abstract: A carrying device has an elongate body with a handle toward a first end, a pair of wheels toward a second end, and a moveable end member toward the second end. A latch hooks the moveable member in either an opened or closed position. In one form, a wheel is positioned below the handle at the first end with the elevation of the handle being vertically adjustable. In one form, a flexible carrier is retained over the elongate body and cushions at the ends of the flexible carrier aid in carrying an injured person.

Abstract: The present invention provides a foldable rescue stretcher having an open position for transporting a patient and a storing position for storing the foldable rescue stretcher. The foldable rescue stretcher includes a rigid supporting frame having a plurality of sections, a protective barrier, and an inflatable collar. Methods of using the foldable rescue stretcher are also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus, system and kit for transporting a non-ambulatory person comprising: a sheet assembly for enclosing the non-ambulatory person. The sheet assembly having a generally rectangular shape with sides and ends, a base layer, an upper layer, one or more straps; and a plurality of rigid plates disposed between said base and upper layers functioning to protect the non-ambulatory person being transported by a rescuer(s) from impacts, as these may occur in carrying, dragging, or otherwise moving from one location to another. A kit be configured with a satchel with quantities of sheet assemblies, which also can be varied in different sizes, and placed in the satchel, a drag harness, securing straps, and additional trauma supplies as may be required in a rescue operation.

Abstract: A disposable transporter that is absorbent, portable, and lightweight, and having sufficient strength to carry an injured soldier or medical patient is provided. The transporter has a backing substrate, an absorbent body, and a gripping device in an edge formed by the backing substrate. The absorbent body absorbs a large amount of body fluids, and can have an active agent that reduces contamination, infection, and odor. A transporter kit that encloses the transporter in a case for ease of storage and transport is also provided.

Abstract: A flat backboard for an injured person to lie upon is supported between two rigid support poles. The support poles are connected at each end of the stretcher to each other by an elevated support assembly. The support assembly has a handlebar structure and a mount assembly; this mount assembly has a central axle, around which the handlebar assembly fits, allowing for the handlebars to rotate without the mount assembly or the backboard rotating. When the holder of the handlebars generates a rocking motion, the central shaft rotates in the mount assembly, such that the weight of the injured person is supported by the mount assembly, but the rocking motion is not communicated to the mount assembly or the backboard.

Abstract: A portable litter with an integrated IV pole comprising: a frame having a handle section; a storage cavity defined in the handle section; a handle grip extendably attached to the handle section that can be retracted into the storage cavity or extended out of the storage cavity; an end cap removably secured to the handle grip having an IV pole retaining assembly; an IV pole having a standard that can be secured to the end cap by the retaining assembly, received in an opening defined in the handle grip and received in the storage cavity when the IV pole is in a collapsed configuration; and, a support arm rotatably attached to the standard that is parallel to the standard when the IV pole is in a collapsed configuration and rotated generally perpendicular to the standard when the IV pole is in an operational position.

Abstract: A support tray is equipped with a recess for receiving a medical backboard which has a plurality of medical grade gel pads secured thereto to reduce/eliminate the creation of bed sores. Extender wings can be hooked on the lateral edges of the tray to provide additional surface area for larger patients. Undergirding straps are provided to facilitate transport of the assembly when the wings are being utilized.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a disposable absorbent pad comprising multiple layers. In particular, the absorbent pad of the present invention maintains skin dryness by absorbing moisture while preventing leakage to the skin or the bed linens, allowing air circulation at the surface of the patient's skin to prevent heat buildup, and is strong enough to allow the patient to be repositioned, even when the pad is wet. In a particular embodiment the first layer is comprised of a fluid-permeable, porous material, the second layer is disposed under the first layer and is comprised of at least one super absorbent material, and a base layer disposed under the second layer.

Abstract: A rescue device is configured to permit rapid evacuation of a casualty by easily attaching to a casualty. The rescue device includes a shell comprising a cavity and mechanically coupled to shoulder straps which can secure the shell to the casualty. An attachment strap is mechanically coupled to the shell which can secure the shell to the casualty holding the shell in place. A lower carrying surface can be deployed from the shell that can support the casualty. There are handles mechanically coupled to the shell and handle bars mechanically coupled to the lower carrying surface in order to permit easily carrying the casualty to safety.

Abstract: Manually portable structural apparatus comprising a rigid structural element configured to be releasably coupled to at least one other like rigid structural element. A bearer element having a substantially planar upper face extends between first and second elongate side beams, which each have a first connector arrangement at a first end thereof and a second connector arrangement at the second end thereof; the first and second connector arrangements providing a two-part releasable, mechanical, coupling arrangement. The first and second elongate side beams are configured to provide first and second side walls extending upwardly from the upper face of the bearer element. Use of a rigid structural element as part of a short gap crossing and as part of a stretcher. A rigid structural element in which the bearer element defines foot receiving apertures therethrough and use thereof as part of a ladder. A rigid structural element comprising carbon fibre.

Abstract: A patient lifter is provided which includes a pair of side members with a patient support extending therebetween. Arcuate front supports extend from a first end of each side member and the inside bend of each arcuate front support generally faces the patient support. A handle at a second end of the side members facilitates a lift. As the lift begins, a first mechanical advantage is effected by the patient being relatively close to a fulcrum of the lifter. Large vertical travel by the lifting force results in relatively little vertical travel by the patient. As the lift progresses, and the one doing the lift is in a better position to exert additional lifting force, the fulcrum shifts to provide a second, lower, mechanical advantage, but the patient moves further in the vertical direction relative to the vertical travel of the handle.

Abstract: A Firefighter Rapid Emergency Extraction device or F.R.E.E. Sled, is an emergency piece of equipment that acts as a rapid removal sled in which to apply to a downed firefighter, FF, within moments of locating or arriving at the victim. The F.R.E.E. Sled allows for the low profile loading and packaging of the downed FF as well as a securing strap for the RIC bag and air supply unit so that it stays with the victim. The instant invention allows the rescuer to quickly retrieve the compactly stored sled from the storage compartment of their own response vehicle, enter, locate and package the victim without the need for converting the gear that may be worn by the victim-firefighter. The F.R.E.E. Sled easily allows the operations level rescuer to secure the harness system in low-to-zero visibility environments with the “Twin Strap-Two Snap Buckle” method faster and more efficient than any other device available in the rescue art without having to remove the rescuers' protective gloves to accomplish this task.

Abstract: The tactical stretcher and convertible first aid table with detachable IV pole includes a small and lightweight stretcher that is manually lifted with two sets of handles located at distal ends of the stretcher. The stretcher includes a plurality of straps to secure and immobilize a patient lying on the top surface of the stretcher. Two pairs of foldable legs rotate downwardly from a bottom surface to convert the stretcher to a first aid table. The foldable legs are limited to 90 degrees range of rotational movement from a horizontal position to a vertical position. An IV holder accessory is optionally provided, and secures itself to one of the handles. The IV holder includes a telescoping construction in order to adjust the elevation of an IV bag with respect to the stretcher.

Abstract: An evacuation mattress comprises an integral mattress including a mattress interior, a mattress top face sheet, four mattress side face sheets, and a bottom sheet. The bottom sheet forms both the mattress bottom face sheet and an evacuation bottom sheet. The integral evacuation mattress also includes a top evacuation sheet configured to be deployed over a patient who is disposed above the mattress top face sheet. The integral evacuation mattress further includes securing structure configured to secure the top evacuation sheet to the patient and the integral mattress. Transport structure is also included in the integral evacuation mattress and is configured for a person to drag the secured patient and integral mattress from a hospital.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to medical transport devices, more particularly, to spineboards. In one embodiment, a spineboard includes an upper panel assembly joined to a lower panel assembly by one or more latch assemblies and one or more hinge assemblies. An upper moveable belt wrap about the upper panel assembly and is driven by a motorized drive roller while a lower moveable belt is wrapped about the lower panel assembly and driven by a separate motorized drive roller. The upper and lower moveable belts counter-rotate relative to one another. The upper moveable belt is used to load and unload an injured person from the spineboard while the lower moveable belt is used to advance the spineboard toward and away from the injured person.

Abstract: The present disclosure is a disposable transporter that is absorbent, portable, and lightweight, and having sufficient strength to carry an injured soldier or medical patient. The transporter has a backing substrate, absorbent body, and gripping device. The gripping device permits manual carrying or insertion of poles to form a litter or portable cot. The absorbent body may have active agents that kill microorganisms to reduce the risk of contamination, infection, and odors from blood or other body fluids. The disclosure provides a process for producing base materials for the transporter. Also disclosed is a transporter kit having a transporter and a water-resistant case.

Abstract: A litter support system for a vehicle, the litter support system comprising a support arm assembly for supporting a litter in a horizontal position, the support arm assembly including an adjustable hook assembly at a free end of the support arm assembly having an open position and a closed position, the adjustable hook assembly comprising a ratchet system that locks the hook assembly between the open position and the closed position.

Abstract: An economical emergency evacuation mattress for persons in areas with limited access, such as subways and high-rises, provides a warm and secure cocoon for the patient, allows easy transport over any type of surface (e.g., up and down stairs), provides proper support for all of the patient's body, allows the patient to feel a high degree of comfort in what is otherwise a very stressful situation, and provides securing means (e.g., straps) to firmly hold the patient in place during transit.

Abstract: An inflatable mattress-sling having an inflatable torso support pad, a first leg extending out from a first portion of the inflatable torso support pad, and a second leg spaced from the first leg and extending out from a second portion of the inflatable torso support pad. The legs include straps attached to their inner and outer seams so as to facilitate lifting of a patient.

Abstract: A collapsible litter including a first flexible and elongated body support member having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a plurality of flexible grab strap elements attached to the bottom surface of the body support member. The strap elements extend substantially beyond the surface of the body support member. A second flexible body support member, is disposed on the top of the first flexible elongated body support member, and covers a substantial portion of the first flexible elongated body support member. At least one edge of the second flexible body support member is affixed the top surface of the first flexible body support member forming a compartment with an opening for securing and transporting items such that the first and second body support members form a compartment for securing and transporting items.

Abstract: A cart transportable mobile medical emergency response facility includes a plurality of hand carried carts with cargo canisters with interchangeable components for establishing a decentralized mobile medical treatment facility at a disaster or other emergency area with a lack of usable hospital facilities. The rapidly deployable and accessible collection of carts and medical equipment delivers point-of-need critical care in the absence of conventional time consuming and complex assembly of medical response facilities.

Abstract: A flat backboard for an injured person to lie upon is supported between two rigid support poles. The support poles are connected at each end of the stretcher to each other by an elevated support assembly. The support assembly has a handlebar structure and a mount assembly; this mount assembly has a central axle, around which the handlebar assembly fits, allowing for the handlebars to rotate without the mount assembly or the backboard rotating. When the holder of the handlebars generates a rocking motion, the central shaft rotates in the mount assembly, such that the weight of the injured person is supported by the mount assembly, but the rocking motion is not communicated to the mount assembly or the backboard.

Abstract: A dual-use ladder and bridge modular system preferably includes tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints. In a preferred embodiment, the tubes, gussets, flanges, and/or joints are made of carbon fiber. In one embodiment, a removable platform converts the segmented ladder system into a bus assault ladder/platform. Another preferred embodiment includes a bridge conversion kit. Yet another preferred embodiment includes a stretcher cover. When none of the bus assault platform, the bridge conversion kit, or the stretcher cover are needed, the ladder can be used as normal, or stored in a carry bag.

Abstract: A portable litter with an integrated IV pole comprising: a frame having a handle section; a storage cavity defined in the handle section; a handle grip extendably attached to the handle section that can be retracted into the storage cavity or extended out of the storage cavity; an end cap removably secured to the handle grip having an IV pole retaining assembly; an IV pole having a standard that can be secured to the end cap by the retaining assembly, received in an opening defined in the handle grip and received in the storage cavity when the IV pole is in a collapsed configuration; and, a support arm rotatably attached to the standard that is parallel to the standard when the IV pole is in a collapsed configuration and rotated generally perpendicular to the standard when the IV pole is in an operational position.

Abstract: An evacuation mattress comprises an integral mattress including a mattress interior, a mattress top face sheet, four mattress side face sheets, and a bottom sheet. The bottom sheet forms both the mattress bottom face sheet and an evacuation bottom sheet. The integral evacuation mattress also includes a top evacuation sheet configured to be deployed over a patient who is disposed above the mattress top face sheet. The integral evacuation mattress further includes securing structure configured to secure the top evacuation sheet to the patient and the integral mattress. Transport structure is also included in the integral evacuation mattress and is configured for a person to drag the secured patient and integral mattress from a hospital.

Abstract: An evacuation sled for non-ambulatory patients preferably includes a plastic sheet having a plurality of handholds disposed about left and right side edges of the sheet, each handhold comprising an opening with a plastic reinforcement above the opening. A plurality of patient retention straps are coupled to the plastic sheet and are configured to secure a patient in the plastic sheet when the plastic sheet is curved upward about the patient. A pull strap is coupled through a head of the plastic sheet and is configured to permit a person to drag the patient strapped to the plastic sheet. Preferably, a foot strap is affixed to the head pull strap and coupled to a foot of the plastic sheet. The foot strap is configured to cause, when tension is applied to the head pull strap, at least one portion of the plastic sheet foot to raise upward and at least partially enclose the feet of the patient.

Abstract: A mission adaptable multi-purpose, collapsible portable cart/utility table, for use in emergency response and disaster situations, camping, hunting and other outdoors activities, which carries medical rescue carts, canoes, small boats, game, or hauled cargo by hand. It transports one or more cargo bins over long, rough terrain and each bin can include one or more cabinet drawers therein, wherein upon tilting of a cargo bin from a horizontal transport position to a substantially vertical position the cargo bin serves as a supply cabinet. Each bin is openable to expose the supply drawers for use.

Abstract: A rescuing and carrying device comprising a supporting portion, handhold belts, safety belts and shoulder belts, each made of flexible materials. The handhold belts, safety belts and shoulder belts are fixed on the supporting portion respectively. The device comprises lightweight, flexible and foldable materials. With the shoulder belts, the device can be lifted or carried on the shoulders of carriers, allowing for hands-free operation by the carrier.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a durable, compact, two-piece, light weight, load sustaining litter system for the transport of humans, animals or objects. The litter system comprises a litter frame, a fabric disposed between the structure of the frame, at least one hinge and at least one coupling mechanism. The litter system may be quickly assembled under adverse conditions and may be particularly beneficial in transporting individuals who are injured, disabled and/or incapable of movement under combat and/or emergency conditions.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to medical transport devices, more particularly, to spineboards. In one embodiment, a spineboard includes an upper panel assembly joined to a lower panel assembly by one or more latch assemblies and one or more hinge assemblies. An upper moveable belt wrap about the upper panel assembly and is driven by a motorized drive roller while a lower moveable belt is wrapped about the lower panel assembly and driven by a separate motorized drive roller. The upper and lower moveable belts counter-rotate relative to one another. The upper moveable belt is used to load and unload an injured person from the spineboard while the lower moveable belt is used to advance the spineboard toward and away from the injured person.

Abstract: An evacuation mattress comprises an integral mattress including a mattress interior, a mattress top face sheet, four mattress side face sheets, and a bottom sheet. The bottom sheet forms both the mattress bottom face sheet and an evacuation bottom sheet. The integral evacuation mattress also includes a top evacuation sheet configured to be deployed over a patient who is disposed above the mattress top face sheet. The integral evacuation mattress further includes securing structure configured to secure the top evacuation sheet to the patient and the integral mattress. Transport structure is also included in the integral evacuation mattress and is configured for a person to drag the secured patient and integral mattress from a hospital.

Abstract: The present invention provides an emergency medical transportation vehicle comprising a two or three-wheeled motorcycle having a structural frame that encompasses a platform horizontally disposed along the wheel-base, where the platform has a front flat surface, and two rear surfaces extending from the front flat surface on either side of the rear wheel. The rear surfaces have sides extending vertically therefrom. The motorcycle carries the load of driver and patient, provides a safe, stable patient transportation, where passenger and rider are in one plane with the rider below and in complete view of the driver. The vehicle has a movable seat for the driver and chambers for placement of emergency medical equipment and supplies.

Abstract: A stretcher is usable as a life raft. The stretcher is provided with an elongate support panel having a U-shaped inflatable tube, which surrounds the support panel on its front and sides. The inflatable tube has a first part, which is attached to the support panel and an adjoining second part, which forms an obtuse angle with the first part. The transition between the first part and second part forms a tilting point for the life raft in order to be able to tilt the life raft in the water between a first position in which the first parts of the inflated tube act as floats and a second position in which the second parts of the inflatable tube act as floats. By stowing away the deaerated inflatable tube in the support panel, the life raft can also be used as a stretcher for rescue operations on ice.

Abstract: A litter strap that is easily adjustable to any length while simultaneously secure under tension includes an elongate strap extending between first and second parts of a two-piece buckle. The strap may be threaded through one of the buckle parts and manually slidable therethrough for adjusting a length of the litter strap assembly. A flexible pinch guard may be affixed to the strap so that the pinch guard substantially overlaps the first buckle part when the buckle parts are decoupled and may be wider than the strap and sized to substantially overlap the first and second buckle parts when the buckle parts are coupled. A keeper loop may encircle a middle portion of the strap and be slidable therealong and a pull tab may extend from the keeper loop to facilitate adjusting a position of the keeper loop along the middle portion.

Abstract: A combination patient support table and stretcher assembly having a patient support surface including at least first and second planar sections convertible between first end-to-end secured and second collapsible arrangements. A plurality of legs extend from corner locations associated with the planar support sections, the legs are convertible at least between first downwardly supporting and second outwardly pivoting positions. The assembly operates in a selected configuration as a ground supported and elevated table, and which can further be reconfiguring through actuation of the legs to reconfigure as a patient transportable stretcher.

Abstract: A patient transport device includes a generally planar board having a width, length, and thickness defining a volume. At least one handle element is movably connected to the board. The at least one handle element is movable between a first, storage position in which the handle element is contained within the volume of the board, and a second, deployed position in which the handle element extends outwardly from the board. At least one foot support element is movably connected to the board, and is movable between a first, storage position in which the foot support element is contained within the volume of the board, and a second, deployed position in which the foot support element extends outwardly from the board. At least one roller element is rotatably secured to a bottom surface of the board. A patient to be transported is secured to the board and partially supported by the foot support and rolled via the at least one roller element by a single user of the board grasping the at least one handle element.

Abstract: An evacuation mattress comprises an integral mattress including a mattress interior, a mattress top face sheet, four mattress side face sheets, and a bottom sheet. The bottom sheet forms both the mattress bottom face sheet and an evacuation bottom sheet. The integral evacuation mattress also includes a top evacuation sheet configured to be deployed over a patient who is disposed above the mattress top face sheet. The integral evacuation mattress further includes securing structure configured to secure the top evacuation sheet to the patient and the integral mattress. Transport structure is also included in the integral evacuation mattress and is configured for a person to drag the secured patient and integral mattress from a hospital.

Abstract: An emergency response treatment bed system. The emergency response beds may include a frame having a pair of opposing tubular stainless steel side supports and a pair of opposing tubular stainless steel end supports. The side supports and end supports are affixed each to the other by corner fixtures. A plurality of collapsible support legs are affixed to the frame. The support legs have an upper end and a lower end, and are adapted to support the frame above a selected substrate. A support deck is coupled to the frame. The support deck is adapted to support a patient body, and is provided with a liquid impervious, molded thermoplastic contaminant resistant cleanable surface. The support deck also has, above at least some of the support legs, a cutout portion defined by edgewalls, to provide access through the support deck to the support legs, so that multiple beds may be stacked one above the other, using support inserts between vertically adjacent support legs.

Abstract: An evacuation mattress comprises an integral mattress including a mattress interior, a mattress top face sheet, four mattress side face sheets, and a bottom sheet. The bottom sheet forms both the mattress bottom face sheet and an evacuation bottom sheet. The integral evacuation mattress also includes a top evacuation sheet configured to be deployed over a patient who is disposed above the mattress top face sheet. The integral evacuation mattress further includes securing structure configured to secure the top evacuation sheet to the patient and the integral mattress. Transport structure is also included in the integral evacuation mattress and is configured for a person to drag the secured patient and integral mattress from a hospital.

Abstract: This invention proposes a mattress formed by covering a padding with a covering material, characterized in that the covering material has grip portions fixed to the longitudinal edges near the corners of the mattress, that the ends on one side of multiple fastening belts are fixed to both the longitudinal edges, that stowing portions for stowing the fastening belts are provided, and that fastening members are fixed at the ends on the other side of the fastening belts.

Abstract: A system for disposable, easily stored, single use, foldable backboard cushions for placement under a patient being transported by a medical backboard. The backboard cushions comprise an adhesive strip to removably adhere the cushion to a medical backboard during use. The cushions comprise living hinges to facilitate folding into a compact unit and unfolding for use. The system also provides a method whereby a choice of permeable or non-permeable cushions may be selected for use.

Abstract: A collapsible litter including a first flexible and elongated body support member having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a plurality of flexible grab strap elements attached to the bottom surface of the body support member. The strap elements extend substantially beyond the surface of the body support member. A second flexible body support member, is disposed on the top of the first flexible elongated body support member, and covers a substantial portion of the first flexible elongated body support member. At least one edge of the second flexible body support member is affixed the top surface of the first flexible body support member forming a compartment with an opening for securing and transporting items such that the first and second body support members form a compartment for securing and transporting items.

Abstract: An extendable-length, spine immobilizing backboard is disclosed. The backboard is collapsible to the length of a standard backboard for ease of storage and for use in supporting and transporting patients of average height, and a lower portion is telescopically extendable from an upper portion so as to adjustably accommodate patients of above average height. The upper and lower portions are joined by side shafts that telescopically insert into hollow tubes so as to form hand rails on either side of the backboard, and by a flat, rigid central extension that is slidably insertable into a central cavity so as to provide patient support across a gap between the upper and lower portions. The backboard can be collapsed to a length that is six feet, and extended to a length of eighty inches. In some embodiments, the backboard is wider than a standard backboard, being preferably 21 inches wide.