Patent ID: 6016580
Filing Date: 2000-01-25
Classification: A61G

Abstract:
A stretcher for supporting a patient, the stretcher comprising:an elongated frame including an upper frame and a lower frame having a head end, a foot end, and first and second elongated sides;drive means coupled to the upper frame and to the lower frame for supporting the upper frame above the lower frame and for vertically positioning the upper frame relative to the lower frame between an upward raised position and a downward lowered position;a first pedal pivotably coupled to the first elongated side of the lower frame for movement between a lock position and a release position and including a first foot-engaging surface, the first pedal being coupled to the drive means so that the head end of the upper frame moves when the first pedal is moved to the release position;a second pedal pivotably coupled to the first elongated side of the lower frame for movement between a lock position and a release position and including a second foot-engaging surface, the second pedal being coupled to the drive means so that the foot end of the upper frame moves when the second pedal is moved to the release position;a third pedal pivotably coupled to the first elongated side of the lower frame for movement between a lock position and a release position and including a third foot-engaging surface, the third pedal being coupled to the drive means so that the head end and the foot end of the upper frame move at generally the same time when the third pedal is moved to the release position, the third foot-engaging surface being spaced apart from and elevated above the first and second foot-engaging surfaces so that a caregiver can engage the third foot-engaging surface without engaging the first and second foot-engaging surfaces, anda shroud configured to cover substantially all of the lower frame, the shroud being arranged to overhang at least a portion of one of the first pedal, the second pedal, and the third pedal.