a. Components. The standard collapsible litter consists of:
(1) Two straight, rigid, lightweight aluminum poles with four wooden
handles attached to the ends of the poles.
(2)
A cover (bed) of cotton-duck-cloth.
(3) Four stirrups, each bolted near the ends of the poles to support the
litter when placed on the ground or floor.
(4) Two spreader bars, one near each end of the litter at the stirrups.
When opened, they extend across the width of the litter and hold the litter cover taut
(figure 3-1 A).
(5) Two litter securing straps (one strap attached to each pole) used to
keep the litter closed when it is being stored (figure 3-1 B).
b. Accessories. The standard collapsible litter usually comes with two or four
patient securing straps (figure 3-2). Each strap consists of a 6-foot length of webbing
(2 inches wide) and a buckle with a locking device and spring. These straps are used to
secure the casualty to the litter. The casualty should always be secured to the litter
while being transported manually (litter carry) and while being transported by a ground
or air evacuation vehicle.
c. Dimensions. The length of a litter with attached handles is 90 inches. When
open, the litter bed measures 72 inches in length and slightly more than 22 inches
across. The litter weights about 23 pounds.
Figure 3-2. Patient securing strap.
MD0001
3-3
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