Gurneys have a variety of uses within a hospital or medical setting. The most common uses are for transporting patients, either in an emergency vehicle or within the halls of a medical complex. Use this gurneys information guide to help you make an informed choice as you decide which style is best for you.

If you are buying gurneys for use in an emergency vehicle, you probably should look for collapsible gurneys. The legs on these models typically fold as the patient and gurney enter the ambulance. Once in the vehicle, the gurney locks in place.

Hospital gurneys come in a wide variety of styles. While manual gurneys are still in use, many gurneys now have electric batteries to help position patients on the gurney, and make it easier to transport them.

Look for gurneys that have these qualities:

1. A wide enough wheelbase and easy-roll wheels, so the gurneys are stable and easy to maneuver.

2. Easy to operate brakes.

3. Rails and push handles to make it easy to steer the gurneys.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find basic, general-purpose gurneys

These are the gurneys you can use for many functions. Choose manual or electric, based on your preferences and your budget. It is possible to find used gurneys that may work just as well for you as new ones.

I recommend: You can find gurneys that operate on electricity on the Hill-Rom website. Electrical gurneys make it easier to maneuver patients through the hospital. Venture Medical ReQuip offers a new, used and refurbished gurneys list on its website.

Choose gurneys that serve a special purpose

Many medical procedures require specialized equipment. Specialized gurneys can often serve this special need. Some services, such as showers, are easier to perform if a patient is on a specialized gurney.

I recommend: Aria Medical Equipment has a selection of shower gurneys. The Stryker gurney also functions as a positionable chair.

Keep the pads for your gurneys in good shape at all times

Even with protective covers, gurney pads eventually wear out. It's important that you replace pads as soon as they begin to deteriorate. In many cases, you can find replacement pads that are even better than the original pads.

I recommend: MedSupplyCentral.com has replacement pads for gurneys in three thicknesses. Name Brands Direct, a gurneys provider, offers a variety of accessories on its MedicalProductsDirect.com website. These include pads, IV poles and replacement wheels.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Put your gurneys through maintenance checks on a routine basis, following the manufacturer's guideline. Check that all wheels and brakes operate properly. Check the frame to make sure none of the welds have come loose. Inspect the pads for any sign of damage. A qualified electrical engineer should check the electrical systems on the gurney.