Stretcher

Abstract

A stretcher having side strut members between which is stretched a fabric cover carries on the side struts a plurality of retractable straps. At least two of the straps are used for retaining a patient to the stretcher, at least one of the straps is a carrier strap, and one strap, at the head end of the stretcher, is useable as either a carrier strap or a holding strap. Each of the straps has a roller device affixed to one of the strut members. Each strap is carried within the automatic winding device upon a shaft which is spring biased in one direction, the shaft carrying a pawl wheel which is selectively engageable with a locking bar or lever. The locking lever is selectively positioned by an attendant to the stretcher to fix an adjustment of the strap. A free end of the strap, opposite the end retained to the shaft within the roller device is engageable either with a pin affixed to the strut of the stretcher or with a pull-pin engaged with the locking lever. One or more of the straps extend about the stretcher, with the buckle thereon being held at one side of the stretcher opposite the automatic roller device, ready for use by the attendant. The automatic wind up devices keep the straps from dragging in foreign materials when not in use. Further, the stretcher is provided with an adjustable back board for the patient, as well as with adjustable handles slideable with respect to the side struts.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.