Stretcher User Guide

A re-usable, mobile device for transient to short-term use in a healthcare environment that allows a patient to be adequately supported during transport/transfer for the purpose of care, nursing, examination and/or treatment within the environment. A range of models, designs, features and accessories are available for this customisable device.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE for MODSEL hospital stretchers – powered (battery) and non-powered (hydraulic). This medical device has been designed as hospital patient transport.

This stretcher is specifically designed for use in conjunction with a MODSEL Protran, Premia or Premia Forte mattress.

It is important to assess that this model is suitable for your patients’ clinical needs.

This stretcher contains metal, hydraulic and electrically powered, (low voltage) components. Associated electrical interference potential and/or magnetic safety issues may merit special consideration in your healthcare environment.

This stretcher is not suitable for use as a ward bed. Use for more than a few hours can contribute to substantial patient discomfort and can increase the potential for injury, including development of pressure sores. This stretcher is specifically designed for indoor use in dry environments, with due care it may be used to transit outdoor areas however additional controls and precautions specific to the environment will be merited.

This stretcher mattress may contain a metal zip; associated electrical and/or magnetic safety issues may merit special consideration in your healthcare environment.

 Warnings

YOUR OWN and PATIENT SAFETY REQUIRES that you ALWAYS CHECK THE STRETCHER

Is the stretcher fundamentally sound and hygienic?

• Are the castor’s free moving and firmly attached?
• Do the drop sides and other movable parts operate correctly?
• Are the visible surfaces free from damage, soiling and undue wear?
• Is the full unit hygienic?
• Is the stretcher design suitable for the patient and the anticipated healthcare environment?

Has the stretcher been correctly maintained?

• Is the stretcher included in your institution’s preventative maintenance plan?
• Has the maintenance plan been actioned correctly? If you are unsure, contact MODSEL on 1300 785 790 and quote the serial number, for up to date information.
• Does the stretcher operate correctly, without undue vibration, noise and/or physical stresses? IF NOT, DO NOT USE. Isolate and quarantine the stretcher with the suspected malfunction. Contact MODSEL or authorised agent for advice.

PATIENT SAFETY REQUIRES that you ALWAYS CHECK THE MATTRESS

Is the mattress the correct one for the stretcher?

• A MODSEL Protran, Premia or Premia Forte mattress is specifically designed for use in conjunction with Modsel Contour stretcher models
• The edges should align well with the sides of the stretcher, with no more than a 1cm gap between the edges in any direction
• The mattress will have seams or flex capability that closely aligns with the movement capability of the stretcher top

Is the mattress clean and suitable for use?

• The mattress will be clean and dry
• It will be free from any visible damage including to fabric and seams
• The zipper will be fully closed

Is the mattress correctly placed?

• The non-slip side of the mattress must be in direct contact with the top of the stretcher
• The head and foot ends must be correctly orientated
• When fitting a sheet, ensure that at least 75% of the non-slip surface of the mattress directly contacts the stretcher top

 Warnings

Patient/Staff Safety

• Patients, especially children must not be left unattended on or with a stretcher at any time.
• Care must be taken in the operation of all moving parts and accessories to minimise risk of injury to staff or patients.
• Stretcher top must be in the lowest position when patients are getting on or off the stretcher, with access from either side only.
• Maximum static patient load capacity on the backrest must not exceed 100kg distributed evenly or damage to locking struts and frame may occur.
• Maximum static patient load capacity on the stretcher is 300kg and must not be exceeded. Weight must be distributed as evenly as possible on stretcher top. Any weight loading above 150kg must be wheeled on smooth, level flooring and attended by more than one staff member.
• Only apply brakes when stretcher is stationary.
• Brakes are to be fully applied during bed / stretcher transfers and attended by qualified clinical staff.

General Use

• Backrest must be raised and lowered with care to prevent possible strain to the operator.
• Check that all fingers, hands and limbs are clear before lowering backrest.
• Stretcher must never be left on sloping surfaces unattended, even with brakes fully engaged.
• Traversing side on, across slopes is to be avoided under any circumstances.
• On wet or slippery flooring do not lean or apply unnecessary force against stretcher, as it may slide: even with brakes fully applied.
• Clips, locks and retainers are supplied by the manufacturer for patient / staff safety and must not be removed.
• When covering the mattress with a sheet, always ensure that there is sufficient non-slip base material (more than 75% area of the mattress) contacting the stretcher top surface, to prevent slippage or movement of the mattress.

Dropsides

• Stretcher must never be raised or moved with dropsides down.
• Patients on a stretcher with dropsides down, must always be attended by qualified clinical staff.
• Dropside releases must be operated only by suitably qualified clinical staff in attendance.
• Check that all fingers, hands and limbs are clear before lowering dropsides.
• Always ensure dropsides are locked firmly in position after raising.
• Side loading on any dropsides should not exceed 80kg or damage to the stretcher may occur.
• Dropsides locked in mid position should not be subjected to any downward force exceeding 30kg static loading as this may result in damage to the stretcher or personal injury.

 Warnings

Mattress

This stretcher mattress provides only a low level of cushioning and insulation, elderly, frail and other individuals may be particularly susceptible to temperature and/or pressure related injury in some healthcare environments; take appropriate care.

Electric Operation (if applicable)

• All electric functions must be operated only by suitably qualified clinical staff in attendance.
• Stretcher top must not be lowered onto any object or irreparable damage will occur to the lifters. This is a built in safety feature to assist in preventing damage to other equipment or injury.
• Fingers, hands and limbs must be kept clear of any electrically operated parts such as backrest and knee break.
• Ensure that the electric backrest is supported by a staff member each side before using the quick release.
• ONLY USE THE BACKREST CPR QUICK RELEASE IN AN EMERGENCY - continuous use will prematurely wear or damage the release mechanism.
• If the backrest quick release is activated, lower the backrest completely flat to reset the quick release.
• Only charge via a standard 240V power point. DO NOT MOVE the stretcher before disconnecting mains power.

Sliding Top System (if applicable)

• Do up manual slide lock firmly and securely after each use and before tilting top.
• Do not release slide lock when stretcher top is tilted.
• If slide does not lock firmly and securely, do not use the stretcher under any circumstances, until an authorised service person has re-tensioned or adjusted the lock.
• Always operate an electrically powered sliding top with care, ensuring all personnel and any other obstructions are clear before use.

Maintenance

• Periodic maintenance must be done in accordance with the user guide to ensure the safest product at all times and meet warranty requirements - refer to the Routine Maintenance and Warranty sections in this guide
• Any failure of the stretcher to operate correctly should be immediately investigated.
• Isolate and quarantine the stretcher with the suspected malfunction.
• Contact MODSEL or authorised agent for advice.

Steer / Brake System

There are variety of ways stretcher steering is controlled while moving. These include a corner castor locked into a straight position or a 5th (center) steer wheel pressured onto the floor. NOTE - It is recommended that a stretcher with corner steering is always pushed from the opposite end to which the steer castor is positioned, however the end from which a stretcher is pushed from is subject to an organisations internal policy and risk assessment.

To steer the stretcher.

Press one of the corner GREEN pedals on the base down fully to activate steering. Press the opposite RED pedal back to the horizontal (neutral) position to disengage steering.

To brake when parked.

Press one of the corner RED pedals down fully to activate all four castor brakes. Press the opposite GREEN pedal back to the horizontal (neutral) position to disengage the brakes.

NOTE - To move the stretcher sideways, always ensure the pedals are in the horizontal (neutral) position.

Manual (hydraulic) Raise, Lower & Tilt

To operate the backrest.

Squeeze the red lever under the outer end of the backrest and raise or lower. release the lever to re-lock the backrest position.

To raise and lower the stretcher top.

Pump down on the GREEN raise pedal on the stretcher base to raise the top. To lower, press both RED pedals together.

To tilt the stretcher top.

To tilt either the head or foot end of the stretcher top down, press one RED lower pedal as per the direction on the stretcher base.

Power Assisted (electric) Raise, Lower & Tilt

To operate the backrest. 

Press the UPWARD facing arrow labeled 'BACK' on the handset to raise. Press the DOWNWARD facing arrow to lower. 

To raise and lower the stretcher top. 

Press the UPWARD facing arrow labeled 'HIGH/LOW' on the handset to raise. Press the DOWNWARD facing arrow to lower.

To tilt the stretcher top. 

Press the DOWNWARD facing arrows labeled 'TILT (FOOT/HEAD)' on the handset to lower either end of the stretcher top.

To raise and lower knee break (option). 

Press the UPWARD facing arrow labeled 'KNEE' on the handset to raise. Press the DOWNWARD facing arrow to lower.

To contour the stretcher top (option). 

Press the UPWARD facing arrow labeled 'BACK & KNEE' on the handset to raise both the backrest and knee break to a sitting position together. Press the DOWNWARD facing arrow to lower back to a the lying position together.

Power Assisted (electric) Charging

Removable battery.

Note - Position of the battery and controller cradle will vary according to the stretcher configuration. The number of operations per charge will vary according to the loading of the stretcher. Do not continually run the battery to low charge as this will gradually reduce the battery life. Regular charging of the battery is recommended. Low Battery Warning: On hearing an audible tone from the unit during use, plug stretcher into mains power (if available) or remove the battery for charging immediately. Failure to comply with this will result in shortening of battery life.

To remove the battery, squeeze the lever under the end of the battery to release the lock and then pull away from the control box interface connection, allowing the battery to continue resting on its slide support. Carefully lift the battery out. To install the battery, lift the battery into position and rest on its slide support. Push the battery firmly into the control box interface until you hear the lock click.  

Mains power cable.

The stretcher should always be operated while powered with a standard 240V outlet. ALWAYS ENSURE LEAD IS UNPLUGGED BEFORE MOVING THE STRETCHER. There is a battery backup to allow stretcher operation whilst unplugged. The number of operations per charge will vary according to the loading of the stretcher. Do not continually run the battery to low charge as this will gradually reduce the battery life. Regular charging of the battery is recommended.
Low Battery Warning: On hearing an audible tone from the unit during use, immediately plug unit into a mains power outlet to recharge battery for a minimum of 6 hours. Failure to comply with this will result in shortening of battery life.

Dropsides

There are several styles of dropside, the most common being the Classic style with vertical risers and Deluxe style which lowers and folds underneath the stretcher top. 

Classic style dropside.

To release, lift the dropside lock tab and then lower the dropside. When the dropside is lifted into its upright position, it will automatically lock.  

Deluxe style dropside.

To release, lift the dropside lock tab and then lower the dropside. When the dropside is lifted into its upright position, it will automatically lock.  

Horizontal rail dropside.

To release, pull the dropside lock knob out and then lower the dropside. When the dropside is lifted into its upright position, it will automatically lock.  

Accessory Sockets

A pair of sockets are provided on the foot end of the stretcher top for a range of accessories such as end rails, monitor boards and folding foot boards.There is an optional head end accessory socket option also available.

Installing an accessory.

Loosely insert the accessory into both sockets and then either one at a time or with both hands upside down and using your forefingers, depress the lock buttons and allow the accessory to drop in. Ensure both locks have activated after installation.

Removing an accessory.

Either one at a time or with both hands upside down and using your forefingers, depress the lock buttons and lift the accessory out slightly. Once both lock buttons are released, lift and remove the accessory completely.

IV Pole

The standard removable IV Pole may be stored on the stretcher base or a folding IV Pole will be permanently mounted to either end of the stretcher top. The removable pole can be fitted into one of the square corner sockets on the stretcher top (normally in all four corners). A folding IV pole is either stood up to its upright position and dropped slightly to lock into place, or lifted slightly and lowered into its lying down position.

To raise the IV hanger.

Lift the hanger and let go. The hanger will automatically lock into the desired height setting.

To lower the IV hanger.

Pull down on the lock body to release. Support the hanger and lower it to the desired height, letting go of the lock body to re-lock. 

Caring for this stretcher

SURFACE CLEANING RECOMMENDED FOR ROUTINE CIRCUMSTANCES.

• Do not hose, soak or submerge this stretcher. Surface clean only
• Disinfect using institution approved procedure; ensuring the surfaces are decontaminated, free from residues and dry before use
• Alcohol based sanitisers* or
• With appropriate water-based residues removal, or consider
• Quaternary ammonium compounds*

* Institution approved brands at manufacturer’s recommended concentrations.

TO CLEAN and DISINFECT

• CONSULT your facility contamination control plan
• Consult care instructions for the accessories including mattress that have been supplied separately
• Spot clean any visible soiling
• Wipe over all surfaces with a suitable disinfectant, ensuring a suitable contact time.
• Rinse or remove residues as merited
• Store indoors in a clean and dry environment, protected from contamination.

DO NOT

• Remove any fixtures or fittings integral to the safe operation and use the stretcher
• Allow fluid to contact electrical fittings, fixtures or connectors

If you suspect significant contamination, consider fogging and/or UVC exposure in conjunction with advice from MODSEL and your contamination control representative.

Caring for this stretcher mattress

SURFACE CLEANING RECOMMENDED FOR ROUTINE CIRCUMSTANCES.

• Do not breach fabric surface with sharps or other abrasive materials.
• Disinfect using institution approved procedure; ensuring the surfaces are decontaminated, free from residues and dry before covering with a sheet.
• Alcohol based sanitisers* or
• Quaternary ammonium compounds* or
• Aldehydes* or
• Peroxides*

* Selected brands at manufacturer’s recommended concentrations

DO NOT USE BRUSHES OR PHYSICALLY ABRASIVE CLEANERS. These will destroy the waterproof coating of the fabric. WIPE WITH A CLEAN CLOTH DAMPENED WITH A MILD DETERGENT SOLUTION (OR) APPROVED SANITISER. RESIDUES CAN BE REMOVED WITH CLEAN WATER. DO NOT SCRUB ZIP AROUND ZIPPER.

If you suspect contamination, remove cover, inspect and, if merited machine wash. DO NOT DRYCLEAN.

To HOT MACHINE WASH; Where laundering is required, wipe surface as clean as possible and sanitise using a suitable disinfectant. Fully unzip cover and remove mattress core TAKING CARE not to contaminate the foam core. Store foam core flat in a clean, dry location, protected from contamination. Leave zipper open as fabric is waterproof and interior will not be correctly laundered if zipper is closed.

DO NOT PIN or STAPLE labels etc on cover, as this will breach the waterproof integrity of the fabric. If identification is required WRITE ON THE COVER USING LAUNDRY SAFE FELT TIPPED MARKER.

HOT WATER and most chemical SANITISERS can be used. RINSE WELL. DO NOT WRING. DRY FLAT where possible. DRY, NATURALLY AT ROOM TEMPERATURE AWAY FROM DIRECT HEAT. DO NOT IRON. When complete dry, refit to foam core. Close zipper completely. Store flat, clean and dry when not in use. Protect from contamination.

ALWAYS Discard a mattress if the;

• Fabric cover is beached, worn or broken or
• Zipper does not fully close or
• Core is wet or malodorous or
• Mattress/cover no longer appears hygienic after prescribed cleaning procedure. Disinfect before disposal. DO NOT re-purpose or recondition this device.

Routine Maintenance

The most common problems encountered with mobile stretchers involve siderails not locking, wheel locks and/or brakes not functioning or engaging correctly, or frame/structural components failing. Loss of functionality could cause the platform surface to tilt, spilling the patient onto the floor. Routine inspection of casters, siderails, and other frame components can usually prevent these problems.

After each (12) twelve months of use, the stretcher must be checked in accordance with our recommended Service Checklist.

An approved MODSEL Service Checklist can be downloaded online from this link

TO ENSURE WARRANTY, PERIODIC MAINTENANCE RECORDS MUST BE RETAINED.

Malfunction

• Any failure of the stretcher to operate correctly should be immediately investigated.
• Isolate and quarantine the stretcher with the suspected malfunction.
• Contact MODSEL or authorised agent for advice.

Disposal

• Contact MODSEL or your institution expert for advice on disposal of this device.
• DO NOT repurpose this device. MODSEL as the legal manufacturer of this medical device can advise if it can be reconditioned.

15 Year Warranty

We warrant in the event that:

• Any fabricated structure failure is found within (15) fifteen years from the date of invoice due to faulty workmanship.
• A part or parts of plastic not covered by the above warranty, are found within (5) five years from the date of invoice to have a structural defect.
• All electric parts not covered by the above warranty are found to have a manufacturing defect within (2) two years from the date of invoice.
• The stretcher mattress not covered by the above warranty, is found within (2) two years from the date of invoice to have defect. This includes faulty cover material, faulty seam welding and foam failure.
• Any externally supplied moving parts including springs, castors, hydraulic rams, gas struts, pivots etc not covered by the above warranty, are subject to third party warranties or found within (1) one year from the date of invoice to have a structural defect.
• The purchaser, within (14) fourteen days of discovery of the defect or defects gives written notice to Modsel or their distributor or agent, and:

The defect or defects are not due to:

• Cosmetic issues such as fading, crazing, discoloration.
• Lack of maintenance as per minimum requirements.
• Vandalism, negligence, abuse, accidents, improper installation or normal wear and tear.
• Products tampered with or altered, modified or repaired by anyone when not approved by Modsel.
• Conditions such as close proximity to salt, extreme hot or cold temperatures.
• Non-adherence to cleaning and care instructions.
• Permeation of fluid substances into foam.
• Incorrect usage of electric parts as per the operating directions.

Modsel will:

At our option, repair or replace the part or parts found within our reasonable judgement to have been defective in workmanship or materials. Should your stretcher ever require attention due to a failure as defined under the warranty above, please contact Modsel or your local distributor from whom your stretcher was originally purchased.

Manufacturing Records

Manufactured by Modsel Pty Ltd,

54 - 56 Industrial Ave, Maryborough, QLD, 4650, Australia.

Contact +61 1300 785 790

Class I Medical Device ARTG Included

Product Model/Serial Number;

Mattress Model/Batch Number;

Date of Manufacture;