A practical planning guide for routine inspection, documentation, and service 

Preventive maintenance helps organizations identify developing wear, operational changes, loose components, and service needs before they contribute to a larger problem. A checklist also creates consistency across units and technicians. 

This article is educational and does not replace the current manufacturer instructions, service documentation, qualified technical judgment, or an organization’s policies. Scope and frequency should be appropriate for the specific stretcher, level of use, and operating environment. 

Buyer Trust Principle
Focus on the actual equipment, inspection, preventive maintenance, repairs, functional testing, documentation, and support. Labels alone do not establish condition or future performance. 

 

Start With Identification and Records 

Confirm the model and serial number, record the inspection date, note the person performing the work, review available maintenance history, document current usage information when available, and list reported concerns. 

General Condition Review 

Review cleanliness, labels, visible hardware, fasteners, patient-contact surfaces, frame components, attachment points, and evidence of impact, corrosion, looseness, or abnormal movement. 

Powered Lift and Hydraulic Operation 

Operate the cot through appropriate raise-and-lower functions. Note control response, consistency, unusual sounds, hesitation, irregular movement, visible residue, or changes from prior operation. 

Battery and Electrical Checks 

Review the battery compartment, battery connection, controls, switches, visible wiring and connectors, power delivery, and charging-related components included with the unit. Document battery concerns rather than relying on appearance. 

Wheels, Casters, Steering, and Brakes 

Check rolling and steering behavior, wheel wear, caster movement, looseness, visible damage, brake engagement and release, and any unusual resistance. 

Siderails, Patient Surface, and Restraints 

Operate siderails and locking mechanisms. Review the patient surface, mattress, restraint attachment points, available restraints, and XPS components when applicable. 

Final Operational Review and Documentation 

After service or adjustments, repeat appropriate functional checks. Record findings, work completed, parts replaced, unresolved items, recommended follow-up, and the date of the next review according to the applicable maintenance program. 

How PM Supports Used Equipment Value 

Egotie USA used and pre-owned stretchers undergo inspection, preventive maintenance, functional testing, and necessary servicing before sale. The exact work varies by unit and is based on condition. 

Questions Buyers Should Ask 

  • What is the model and serial number? 
  • What inspection and preventive maintenance were completed? 
  • What repairs or component replacements were performed? 
  • Which functions were tested after service? 
  • What accessories, records, warranty terms, and shipping arrangements are included? 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is this a substitute for a service manual? 

No. Use current manufacturer information and qualified technical judgment. 

Should every unit receive identical work? 

No. Every stretcher should be evaluated individually. 

Why document PM? 

Records support consistency, condition tracking, repair planning, and future decisions. 

Does PM eliminate failures? 

No. PM helps identify concerns but cannot guarantee that a future issue will not occur. 

Final Thoughts 

A confident equipment purchase begins with clear information. Buyers should evaluate the actual unit, the work completed before sale, its compatibility, included components, documentation, and continued maintenance needs. Egotie USA’s goal is to provide properly prepared used, pre-owned, and refurbished equipment with transparent information that supports an informed decision. 

About the Author 

Written by Emmanuel A. 

Owner, Egotie USA, a Division of Egotie Inc. 

Egotie USA specializes in used, pre-owned, and refurbished Stryker stretchers, Power-PRO XT stretchers, Power-LOAD systems, equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, repairs, and EMS equipment support throughout the United States. 

10220 Georgibelle Dr., Houston, TX 77043 | 832-598-4204 | emmanuel.a@egotieusa.com