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Portable stretchers typically used in the prehospital setting and that can be separated lengthwise into two independently adjustable halves; each half is slid under the patient from each side in a scissors action to move (\'scoop\') patients into them without lifting or log-rolling the patient. These stretchers include brackets or knobs to join the two halves and straps to secure the patient; some also include accessory back splints. Scoop stretchers are used to pick up seriously injured patients, especially those with suspected neural-axis injuries, with minimal body movement; the use of these stretchers requires that the patient lie in a flat surface with access from both sides.
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