
© Ferno-Washington, Inc. / 234-3480-06 / November 2017
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Using the Cot
6.3 Changing Cot Positions
Changing cot positions with a patient on the cot requires a
minimum
of
two trained operators who are communicating, working together, and
maintaining control of the cot at all times.
PREPARING TO RAISE OR LOWER THE COT
1.
Both Operatorse:
Engage the loading-end caster swivel locks so
the wheels will not swivel. See “Swivel-Lock Release Lever” on
2.
Both Operatorse:
Stand at opposite ends of the cot (Figure 29).
3.
Both Operatorse:
Use an underhand grip to grasp the cot main
frame and position your right hand to use the leg-control handle
(if needed).
RAISING THE COT
Operators do not use any control handles when raising the cot.
1.
Both Operatorse:
Lift the cot until it is near the desired height. If
the legs remain locked in Bed Position 1 or Bed Position 3 when
you attempt to raise the cot, the leg lock may be engaged. Stop
the raising process; verify the cot is locked at the current height,
and allow the Control-end Operator to disengage the leg lock.
2.
Both Operatorse:
Verify that the cot has locked at the new height
before relaxing your grasp.
LOWERING THE COT
1.
Both Operatorse:
Squeeze and hold the leg control handle with
your right hand.
2.
Both Operatorse:
Lift the cot slightly to take the weight off
the locking mechanism and allow the locking mechanism to
disengage. The leg-status indicator will change to red.
3.
Both Operatorse:
Together, lower the cot (Figure 29).
4.
Both Operatorse:
Release the leg control handles when the cot
is near the desired height. Continue lowering until the locking
mechanism engages.
5.
Both Operatorse:
Do not release your grasp until you are sure the
undercarriage is locked at the new position.
6.
Both Operatorse:
If the legs have not locked, raise the cot a
little higher until you hear an audible “click” from the locking
mechanism, then retest.
Talk to the Patient
Communicate before making changes to
the cot height, and during the loading and
unloading procedures.
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