What is the Difference Between a Stretcher and a Gurney?  

You might have seen it countless times on TV or in real life: emergency responders wheeling a patient into an ambulance, ready for transport. But have you ever stopped to wonder what kind of transport device they’re using? If you’re picturing a stretcher or a gurney, you’re on the right track. But what’s the difference between them? 

In healthcare and emergency response, the right tool can make all the difference in patient care. Stretchers and gurneys serve similar purposes, but each one is tailored for specific needs in different situations. So, if you’ve ever been confused about whether it’s a stretcher or a gurney being used in a particular scenario, you’re not alone. Understanding these key differences can make a world of difference when it comes to ensuring patients are moved safely, efficiently, and with the utmost care. 

This article will clear up the confusion once and for all, diving into the distinctions between stretchers and gurneys. We’ll also highlight how this knowledge is essential for anyone involved in patient transport, from first responders to medical teams and beyond. 

What is a Stretcher? 

In its most basic form, a stretcher is a simple, portable piece of medical equipment used to carry patients who cannot move on their own due to illness, injury, or surgery. Stretchers are built with mobility and stability in mind. They are designed to provide a flat and stable surface for the patient during transport, minimizing any unnecessary movements that could exacerbate injuries or cause additional harm. 

Key Features of a Stretcher 

1. Flat Surface: The main feature of a stretcher is its flat design. This flatness provides a stable base for patients who need to be moved, making it especially beneficial in emergency situations where the patient’s condition may be too fragile for any movement that could worsen injuries. 

1. Lightweight and Portable: Stretchers are typically lightweight, allowing healthcare professionals or emergency responders to carry them easily and efficiently. This is particularly helpful in emergency environments where time is critical, and equipment must be easily transported from one location to another. 

1. Versatility: A stretcher is incredibly versatile. It’s used across a wide variety of medical settings, from emergency situations in ambulances to non-urgent hospital transfers or even outdoor rescue operations. Its design makes it adaptable for different uses and environments. 

1. Comfort: While a stretcher provides a stable surface, it may not always be the most comfortable option for patients, particularly over long distances or prolonged transport. The flatness, while safe, doesn’t always provide the best support for patients who might need additional comfort during their journey. 

Types of Stretchers 

1. Standard Stretchers: These are the most common type of stretchers used in emergency settings, often seen in ambulances. They consist of a metal or plastic frame with a fabric or vinyl covering. Standard stretchers are easy to move and can be folded for storage, which makes them versatile for various transport needs. 

1. Folding Stretchers: As the name suggests, these stretchers can be folded for compact storage and easy transport. They are typically used in environments where space is limited, such as in rescue operations or disaster zones. While they can be more cumbersome in some situations, they are often preferred for their storage efficiency and portability. 

1. Scoop Stretchers: Designed for rescuers to “scoop” patients from a standing or lying position, scoop stretchers consist of two halves that can be quickly locked together around a patient. These are ideal for situations where the patient cannot be moved easily, such as with spinal injuries, as they allow rescuers to stabilize the patient before lifting them. 

1. Basket Stretchers: These stretchers are used in more rugged or outdoor environments, such as during mountain rescues or in areas with rough terrain. They are typically made of metal or strong plastic and have a basket-like design that securely holds the patient during transport. 

1. Bariatric Stretchers: Bariatric stretchers are specifically designed to accommodate overweight or obese patients. These stretchers feature reinforced frames and wider surfaces to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety during transport. With a higher weight capacity than standard stretchers, bariatric stretchers also come with extra features like wider side rails, extra-wide patient support areas, and heavier-duty materials to safely carry larger patients. These stretchers are crucial in hospitals, ambulances, and emergency services to provide proper care for patients who require a higher weight limit during transport. 

When Are Stretchers Used? 

• Emergency Transport: The most common use of stretchers is for the rapid transport of patients during emergencies. Paramedics and emergency medical responders use stretchers to move patients from the site of an accident or injury to an ambulance for further care. 

• Non-Critical Moves: Hospitals use stretchers to move patients from one area to another, especially when the patient is immobile or critically ill. This might include moving a patient from the emergency room to a hospital ward or from a surgical area to recovery. 

• Search and Rescue Operations: When accidents happen in difficult-to-reach locations, such as mountain trails or collapsed buildings, basket stretchers and folding stretchers play a vital role in transporting patients through rough terrain. 

• Outdoor and Remote Situations: In remote or rural areas where access to healthcare facilities is limited, a stretcher serves as a practical tool for moving patients until they can reach more advanced medical care. 

 

What is a Gurney? 

A gurney, while also a transport tool for patients, is more commonly used in hospital settings than in emergency or outdoor situations. Gurneys are designed with more specialized features that are tailored to hospital environments, where patient comfort, as well as medical needs, are prioritized. 

Key Features of a Gurney 

1. Adjustable Backrest: One of the most significant differences between a gurney and a stretcher is that gurneys typically feature an adjustable backrest. This allows healthcare professionals to modify the angle of the patient’s head and torso, which can be crucial during various medical procedures, such as surgeries, or when patients need to be kept in a semi-reclining position. 

1. Wheels for Easy Mobility: Unlike stretchers, which are often carried by hand or wheeled over long distances, gurneys are built with wheels that allow healthcare workers to push them easily from one location to another. This is particularly useful within hospital settings where quick, smooth transport of patients is necessary. 

1. Locking Mechanisms for Safety: Many gurneys feature built-in locking mechanisms that prevent them from rolling or moving unexpectedly during patient transport. This added security ensures that the patient remains stable and secure, especially when being moved between sensitive medical areas such as the operating room or intensive care units (ICUs). 

1. Bulkier Design: While a stretcher is typically lighter and more compact, a gurney is bulkier and more structured. This added structure comes with features like adjustable sections, armrests, and sturdy frames to support a patient’s body during transport, making it a more versatile and comfortable option for long-term transport within a hospital. 

When Are Gurneys Used? 

1. Hospital Transport: Gurneys are most commonly used for moving patients within a hospital setting. They are ideal for moving patients who may need to be kept in a certain position, whether it’s for surgery, medical imaging, or post-operative care. The adjustable backrest feature allows for easy transitions between different positions, which can be critical in maintaining patient comfort and supporting recovery. 

1. Surgical Transport: Gurneys are typically used to transport patients to and from the operating room. Since surgical patients often need to be kept in a reclining position before or after a procedure, a gurney’s adjustable backrest is particularly useful during these critical times. 

1. Recovery or ICU Transport: Gurneys are often used to transfer patients to recovery rooms or intensive care units (ICUs) after major surgeries or serious medical procedures. These transfers require a secure and comfortable setting, which gurneys provide, particularly for patients who need to be monitored closely. 

 

Key Differences Between a Stretcher and a Gurney 

It’s clear that while both stretchers and gurneys are used to transport patients, they have different designs and are tailored for specific types of transport. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences: 

Feature	Stretcher	Gurney
Design	Typically flat and lightweight with a simple frame. Often made of metal or durable fabric.	More structured and bulkier with a rigid frame, often featuring adjustable parts like the backrest.
Adjustability	Generally non-adjustable, offering a fixed position (flat).	Adjustable backrest and often adjustable leg support to accommodate various patient needs.
Portability	Extremely lightweight and portable. Easy to carry, fold, or store. Can be used in tight spaces or rough terrain.	Heavier and bulkier but equipped with wheels for easy movement within hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Mobility	Can be manually carried by medical personnel or wheeled using compatible wheels (in some models).	Typically designed with wheels for easy pushing, allowing smooth movement in hospitals and other medical facilities.
Material	Made from lightweight metal, aluminum, or plastic frame with fabric or vinyl for comfort and safety.	Usually made from steel or durable materials, with padded surfaces for patient comfort.
Safety Features	Basic safety features such as straps or safety belts to secure the patient.	Features locking wheels, safety rails, and safety mechanisms to prevent accidental movement or rolling.
Patient Comfort	Provides a flat surface with limited cushioning or padding. Comfort varies based on the type of stretcher.	Designed with padded surfaces, armrests, and adjustable backrests for enhanced comfort, particularly over longer distances.
Ease of Storage	Easily folded and stored in compact spaces, particularly in ambulances or emergency rescue vehicles.	Less compact due to the bulkier design but can be stored in designated hospital storage areas or rooms.
Weight Capacity	Standard stretchers typically support up to 250-300 pounds, depending on the model. Bariatric stretchers can handle more.	Standard gurneys typically support up to 400-500 pounds, but there are models designed for bariatric patients that support even more weight.
Type of Transport	Primarily used for emergency situations, outdoor rescue, or short-distance transport.	Primarily used for hospital-based transport, including surgical procedures, recovery, and critical care.
Height Adjustment	Generally, stretchers don’t allow for height adjustment but can be raised and lowered via the transport vehicle or manual lifting.	Many gurneys are height-adjustable, allowing the medical staff to change the height for easier patient access or to accommodate medical procedures.
Usage Environment	Best suited for emergency settings, field rescues, or where space is tight (e.g., stairs, narrow hallways).	Designed for use in hospitals, surgical centers, or anywhere that requires patient mobility on a stable, cushioned platform.
Cost	More affordable due to simpler construction and design.	Higher cost due to additional features such as mobility, adjustability, and comfort enhancements.
Specialized Versions	Includes versions like Bariatric Stretchers, Folding Stretchers, Scoop Stretchers, and Basket Stretchers for various environments.	Specialized versions include Pediatric Gurneys, Bariatric Gurneys, and Surgical Gurneys for different patient needs.

 

 

 

 

Why Choosing the Right Equipment Matters 

Choosing the right equipment, whether it’s a stretcher or a gurney, plays a critical role in ensuring patient safety and comfort. Incorrect equipment can cause undue stress or even exacerbate a patient’s condition, particularly when medical emergencies are involved. Here’s why it matters: 

1. Comfort and Positioning: A stretcher, due to its flat design, offers minimal patient positioning adjustments, which might be suitable for short-distance transfers or emergency situations. In contrast, a gurney’s adjustable backrest allows for better patient comfort, especially during long hospital transports or when medical procedures require the patient to be in a specific position. 

1. Safety and Stability: In critical transport situations, such as accidents or urgent medical interventions, ensuring the stability of the patient is paramount. Stretchers and gurneys are both designed to offer stability, but gurneys, with their locking wheels and ability to remain stationary, provide additional security for hospital-based transport, where patients may be more fragile. 

1. Efficiency and Speed: In emergency situations, such as accidents or urgent medical interventions, a stretcher’s lightweight design and quick deployment can save valuable time. However, when patient comfort and ease of transport within a hospital are key, gurneys offer an excellent solution for smooth and efficient movement across hospital corridors. 

 

Conclusion 

Stretchers and gurneys may seem like everyday medical equipment, but their role in patient care is far from ordinary. Each serves a distinct function, whether it’s providing a quick, stable surface in an emergency or offering the comfort and support needed for hospital-based transport. Understanding the differences between these tools ensures that patients receive the appropriate care and that medical teams are equipped with the best resources for the job at hand. 

In healthcare settings, whether you’re in an ambulance, a surgical unit, or on the scene of an accident, the right equipment can make all the difference in the quality of care provided. By choosing the right stretcher or gurney, healthcare professionals ensure that patients are transported safely, securely, and as comfortably as possible during their medical journey.