Stretcher transport
In a stretcher transport, the patient is carried on a patient stretcher in a vehicle specially equipped for the purpose.
Learn more: Stretcher transportDefibrillator (AED)
Glossary · Equipment · also: AED, Automated external defibrillator, Defib
In brief
The key points at a glance
A defibrillator is a device that delivers a targeted electric shock in certain life-threatening heart rhythm disorders, above all ventricular fibrillation, so that the heart can return to an orderly rhythm. An AED (automated external defibrillator) analyses the heart rhythm itself and guides the user through the process with voice prompts — so that laypeople can help too. In an emergency, the first step is always: call 144.
Also called: AED · Automated external defibrillator · Defib · Public access defibrillator
How an AED works
An AED is connected via two adhesive electrode pads on the upper body. The device measures the heart rhythm and decides by itself whether a shock is needed. If so, it uses voice prompts to tell everyone to stand clear and to press the shock button — some devices also deliver the shock automatically.
A defibrillator does not replace chest compressions but complements them. Between analyses, the device prompts you to continue chest compressions until the emergency medical service takes over.
Why a defibrillator belongs on board
Stretcher transport carries people who are often weakened, have just left hospital or have an underlying illness. Even though patient transport only carries people in a stable condition, their condition can change on the way. For this eventuality, first-response equipment is on board.
At Mobimed, the vehicles used for stretcher transport carry oxygen, first-response emergency medical equipment and a defibrillator. The staff are trained in first response and monitor the patient during the journey.
Patient transport is not an emergency medical service
A defibrillator on board does not turn patient transport into an emergency call-out. Patient transport takes people to appointments, to hospital or home in a planned way and with an escort. An emergency medical service provides medical care in emergencies and transports patients under the care of a doctor or emergency medical staff.
That is why, in an emergency — unconsciousness, severe shortness of breath, chest pain, suspected stroke — the first step is always the emergency number 144. If an emergency occurs on the way, the staff provide first aid and alert the emergency medical service.
AEDs in everyday life: publicly accessible
In Switzerland, publicly accessible AEDs are installed in many railway stations, shopping centres, sports facilities and municipal buildings. They are marked with a green heart symbol. Anyone who attends a first aid or BLS course learns how to use one in a few hours — and can save lives in an emergency.
Oxygen and first response: what else is on board
Alongside the defibrillator, oxygen is part of the equipment for stretcher transport. It is important, for example, for patients who already receive oxygen at home or in hospital and continue to need it during the journey. Anyone who requires oxygen should state this when booking.
The first-response equipment includes, among other things, dressings and aids to bridge the time until the emergency medical service arrives in an emergency. It is intended for exceptional situations — the norm is a calm, safe journey.
In practice
Safely home from the cardiology ward
Werner, 81, is discharged after a few days on the cardiology ward of a Basel hospital. He is not yet allowed to sit for long and travels home to Reinach lying down. A transport assistant sits beside him for the whole journey. Oxygen and a defibrillator are on board — they are not needed, but Werner’s daughter is glad they are there.
Related services
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Hospital transfers
On a hospital transfer, we take patients from one institution to the next: from a hospital to another clinic, from an acute hospital to a care home or from a clinic back to hospital.
Learn more: Hospital transfersAnswers
Frequently asked questions: Defibrillator
Can anyone use an AED?
Yes. Publicly accessible AEDs are designed for laypeople and guide you through the process with voice prompts. A first aid course gives you confidence, but it is not a requirement.
Does every Mobimed vehicle have a defibrillator?
The vehicles used for stretcher transport carry a defibrillator, oxygen and first-response equipment. If you have questions about the equipment for your specific journey, the team can help on 0800 670 670 (free call).
What happens if an emergency occurs on the way?
The staff provide first aid and alert the emergency medical service via 144. Patient transport does not replace the emergency medical service.
Glossary
All terms Related terms
Types of transportEmergency medical serviceThe emergency medical service cares for people in medical emergencies and takes them to hospital under medical supervision.Types of transportStretcher transportStretcher transport is a form of patient transport in which the person travels lying on a stretcher instead of in a seat.Quality and staffPatient transport paramedicPatient transport paramedics (Transportsanitäter/innen) are rescue service professionals with a Swiss federal diploma.Quality and staffIVR recognitionThe Swiss Interassociation for Rescue Services (IVR, in French IAS) is the umbrella organisation of the Swiss rescue services.
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Recognition by the Swiss Interassociation for Rescue Services (IVR/IAS) is not a self-assessment but the result of an external audit of vehicles, equipment, training and procedures. Mobimed was the first patient transport provider in north-western Switzerland to receive it — and still holds it today.
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