The CareFlight Stretcher Bridge: A Compact Mobile Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

A mobile intensive care module has been developed for aeromedical transport of the critical care patient. It incorporates monitoring, ventilator, oxygen and suction, and infusion pumps. The device clips to a lightweight stretcher, over the patient at hip to knee level. This system is compatible with nearly all patient transport vehicles and allows monitors to be run from vehicle power. An assessment of the system after more than 500 transports is that it represents a significant advance over systems used previously. The advantages and disadvantages of the system compared with unmounted or vehicle-mounted equipment are discussed.

Aeromedical Transport of the Mechanically Ventilated Patient

“…al. [6], Wishman et al [5] and Yehoshua et al [3] all describe the successful transport of patients with preconfigured life support modules of relatively short distances with private aircraft.…”

“…Harless et al [4] described their experience with air and ground transportation of patients with acute respiratory failure on mechanical ventilation; however, they provided no specifics regarding the respiratory management delivered. Most aeromedical transportation of critically ill patients has made use of either rotor or fixed wing air ambulances with self‐contained critical care modules [5,6]. Very little information is available regarding the specific equipment and requirements needed to transport critically ill patients on ventilators on commercial aircraft, particularly for long distances.…”

Hearts in the Air

“…It has been estimated that more than one million patients were airlifted by the United States from all theaters of this conflict, with an overall death rate of only 4 in 100,000. 3,4 The Korean War brought new challenges and opportunities for AMT. In 1950, the use of the helicopter for the front-line medical evacuation of patients during combat was authorized.…”

A Novel Equipment Bridge for Helicopter Transport of Critically Ill Patients

“…Rectangular frame designs can be top-heavy. 10 The shape of this bridge as well as the central position of the oxygen cylinder should help to improve stability. 4.…”