G.5.10 Stryker Tracked Stair Chair

PURPOSE

To outline appropriate and safe process for utilization of the Stryker Tracked Stair Chair for transportation of patients.
 

APPLICATION

• Paramedics
• Paramedic Superintendents
   

PROCEDURE

Rationale for use
Manitoulin-Sudbury DSB Paramedic Services utilizes the Stryker Tracked Stair Chair to allow for safe and effective transport of patients through narrow hallways and up and down stairways. The device can be rolled or carried. 

Description
The Stryker Tracked Stair Chair is 32.8 pounds (14.9 Kg) and is designed for placement in small storage compartments. Its vinyl-coated cover is stain resistant and easy to maintain. The frame is constructed of sturdy, lightweight aluminum. There are non-slip hand grips on all carrying handles, and the handles fold for easy storage. There are quick release patient restraints. The rear legs have two stationary wheels, while the front wheels are designed to articulate. This design allows the chair to be rolled and maneuvered in tight spaces. The chair folds to a compact size for storage. The maximum capacity is 500 pounds (228Kg). 

The device includes a stair tread system that allows for movement downstairs without having to lift the Stair Chair and patient. 

Procedure for Use

Loading

• Unfold the stair chair and lock it into its upright position. Make sure the locking latch is fully engaged at the rear of the seat. Test the chair to ensure that it will not collapse.        
• Unfasten all patient restraint straps and place them so that they won’t interfere with the patient transfer.
• Place an open sheet over the chair.
• Using the two-rescuer extremity carry, place the patient onto the chair and position them squarely. The patient’s buttocks should be as far back on the seat as possible.
• Explain to the patient that it is imperative that they keep their arms and hands inside the sheet at all times. Wrap the sheet snugly around the patient. Tuck in any loose sheet ends.
• Secure the patient restraint straps snugly around the patient. Make sure all buckles engage fully and test to make sure they won’t come apart.
• Rolling
• Explain to the patient that the chair is going to be tipped backwards. 
• One attendant should grasp the two upper corners of the chair back. The two upper handles may be used instead of grasping the chair frame. 
• The second attendant should assist in tilting the chair back until the weight is balanced. Ensure that nothing will catch in the wheels or impede the movement of the chair.
• The chair can then be rolled without lifting.
   

Carrying

• The attendants should grasp the front and rear carrying handles and lift simultaneously. The corner of the chair frame, top and bottom, may be grasped as an alternative.
• On level surfaces, the front attendant may face to the front or rear while carrying the loaded stair chair.
• When carrying the chair on stairs, the front attendant should always face the patient. The attendant at the feet should call out each time a step is taken. Conversely, the attendant at the head should call out each step when ascending.

Precautions
It is very important to explain your actions and detail the process of the move to the patient. They should be continually reassured that you will not let them fall. Ensure that the patient does not reach out for handrails to steady the chair. This could upset the balance of the whole procedure.

For more detailed instructions, please refer to your user’s manual located in the Cert’n system. 

Cleaning
The entire chair should be cleaned after each use in accordance with the Disinfection of Vehicles and Patient Care Equipment Policy & Procedure.

Storage

• Disengage the chair lock by pressing down on the lock bar. Pull it back while grasping the seat frame and fold it towards the head frame. CAUTION: Release the lock bar as folding movement begins in order to avoid pinching your fingers.
• Fold all four handles next to the frame.
• Take the leg restraint strap and secure it around the folded chair. The stair chair can now be stored in the ambulance.
• After each usage it is to be stored safely and according to the Securing Equipment Policy and Procedure. 

REFERENCE

Stair-PRO – Stair Chair Model 652 Operations/Maintenance Manual https://techweb.stryker.com/EMS/Chairs/6250/0505/6250-001-160E.pdf 

Manitoulin-Sudbury DSB, Paramedic Services, Ergonomics Policy & Procedure G.8.12.2023

Manitoulin-Sudbury DSB, Paramedic Services, Disinfecting of Vehicles & Patient Care Equipment Policy & Procedure G.3.4.2023