Key Features of a Patient Transfer Unit: A Detailed Guide

patient transfer vehicle

Patient transfer vehicles or stable patient transfers are a great option for transporting patients who don’t need an ambulance but still require safe and comfortable medical transport. These vehicles help keep ambulances available for emergencies, making them useful for hospitals, nursing homes, transport companies, and rural areas where emergency services are often limited.

Crestline: Trusted Medical Transport Solutions 

Crestline’s extensive experience in crafting high-quality ambulances has earned us a strong reputation for reliability and precision. Our deep understanding of medical transport needs enables us to expertly design patient transfer units that prioritize the safety and comfort of vulnerable passengers, ensuring they have the necessary medical equipment during transit. As a Crestline partner, you can trust that your patient transfer van will meet the highest standards of care and safety.

Before delivering a vehicle, our team makes sure that each patient transfer vehicle goes through strict safety and compliance verification. Our team meticulously inspects each aspect of the vehicle to confirm it meets all industry standards and regulatory requirements. We conduct thorough testing of safety systems, accessibility features, and medical equipment integration to guarantee that the vehicle is fully operational and secure. These final procedures ensure that when the bus is delivered, it is not only ready for use but also fully compliant with all necessary safety regulations, providing peace of mind to our clients.

patient transfer van

Easy to Use and Access

Non-emergency patient transport vehicles are easy to drive, maneuver, and park, whether in rural areas or cities. They offer full standing height inside in an optional high roof design, which helps reduce caregiver injuries and makes the most of the available space.

Flexible Setup

Our in-house team if engineers can create a setup that works for your needs, whether you require a wheelchair position, stretcher, foldaway seating, or an oxygen tank, we will provide a layout that works best for your non-emergency transportation needs.

Customized Features

We can customize the vehicle to fit your specific non-emergency transport needs. Special features like the Swing and Fold Ramp make it easy to transport stretchers, medical equipment, wheelchairs, and attendants, ensuring you have everything you need for a safe and smooth trip.

Crestline’s Standard Features in a Stable Patient Transfer

Overhead Cabinets

These cabinets offer essential storage space for medical supplies, equipment, and documents. By keeping items organized and easily accessible, overhead cabinets help healthcare professionals quickly find what they need, ensuring efficient and effective patient care.

Braun Wheelchair Lift

Accessibility is a key feature of patient transfer vehicles. The Braun Wheelchair Lift makes it easy and safe for patients with mobility challenges to board and exit the van. This strong and reliable lift works with different types of wheelchairs, ensuring that all patients have access, regardless of their mobility needs.

Non-emergency patient transport
Non-emergency patient transport

Stretcher

Depending on your province regulations, a stretcher can be also added to a patient transfer vehicle to accommodate patients who need to lie down during transport. This option provides flexibility for healthcare providers, ensuring that the vehicle can safely transport patients with varying medical needs. The stretcher is securely installed, offering a comfortable and stable environment for patients during their journey.

Grab Rail

Safety inside the van is crucial, especially for patients who may have trouble moving around. A grab rail offers essential support, helping patients keep their balance as they move to and from their seats or examination areas. This feature helps prevent falls and injuries, making the van safer for all.

Fire Extinguisher

At Crestline, we prioritize safety by ensuring that all necessary regulations are followed, including fire safety protocols. We make sure there is sufficient space for a fire extinguisher, allowing staff to respond quickly in the event of a fire. This helps minimize potential damage and protects both patients and healthcare providers, keeping everyone safe.

Q’Straint Wheelchair Fixtures

Our team ensures that patient restraints are secure by using high-quality securement systems that are tailored to fit the interior layout of the patient transfer van. Q’Straint wheelchair fixtures are designed to safely anchor wheelchairs during transport, preventing any movement that could cause injury. These securement systems are easy to use and adaptable to different wheelchair sizes and models, providing both safety and flexibility.

M Oxygen Tank Holder and Oxygen Storage Box

Unlike a basic wheelchair van, a patient transfer unit is equipped with the necessary tools to care for vulnerable passengers, such as oxygen therapy equipment. The M oxygen tank holder and storage box securely store oxygen tanks, making them easily accessible and ensuring a steady supply of oxygen when needed. This feature is crucial for patients who rely on continuous oxygen, particularly in emergency situations or during transport.

Modesty Panel

Privacy is essential in-patient care, especially in a mobile setting where space can be limited. A modesty panel creates a barrier that protects patients’ privacy during medical exams or procedures. This feature plays a key role in maintaining patients’ dignity and comfort, contributing to a positive care experience.

“Watch Your Step” Signage

The “Watch Your Step” signage on the steps of patient transfer vehicles serves as an important safety feature, reminding passengers to be cautious while boarding or exiting. These signs help reduce the risk of slips or falls, especially for those with mobility challenges. By ensuring a safe entry and exit, this simple feature contributes to the overall safety and security of both patients and caregivers.

Seating Options

The van usually comes with two seating options: the Freedman Go ES 3-point fixed seat or an ADA-compliant fold-away seat with level 1 upholstery. Both options are designed for comfort and safety, providing secure seating for patients or caregivers during transport. The choice between fixed and fold-away seats offers flexibility, allowing the interior to be adjusted based on the specific needs of the operation.

Optional Features for Added Convenience

Extra Espar Heater

In cold climates, keeping the van warm is crucial for both passenger comfort and the proper operation of medical equipment. An optional Espar heater ensures that passengers stay cozy by providing powerful and consistent heat, maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the van no matter how cold it gets outside. This feature helps ensure that vulnerable passengers remain warm throughout their journey.

Medical Storage Cabinet

If you require extra storage, an optional medical storage cabinet can be installed in the van. This cabinet offers additional space for storing medical supplies, medications, and equipment, improving organization and making it easier to access everything needed for patient care.

Mobile medical vans play a crucial role in providing healthcare, especially for communities with limited access to traditional medical facilities. Crestline’s in-house engineers will work with you to design a patient transfer van with features that meet your specific needs.