Patients over 240 lbs are deemed to be bariatric.
Bariatric transport, is a specialized transport requiring specialized equipment to accommodate patients over 240 lb. Usually there is a crew of four Medics to assist with the move of a bariatric patient up to 300 to 400 lb. Patients exceeding 400lb will require a crew of six to eight.
Bariatric patients must keep in mind that when they are being transported they are required to let the Medics know if there are any underlying medical conditions that may hinder them from being transported. Such conditions include bed sores, ulcers, respiratory issues, cardiac problems, and any other conditions that may prevent the person from being transported.
Bariatric patients may be loaded on a stretcher by the use of a Hoyer lift. A Hoyer lift is used to strap the patient into the device, pick them up, and then lure them into the stretcher.
Bariatric patients may be loaded on a tarp that has handles on the stretcher. Once the patient has arrived at the destination, and there is no Holier lift, the Medics will use the tarp to assist moving the bariatric patient from the stretcher to their own bed.