Which type of litter is best suited for the low angle environment?

• A. Scoop stretcher
• B. SKED litter
• C. Flexible litter
• D. Plastic basket litter

Answer: (D)

On low-angle rescues, the priority is a litter that provides a stable, rigid bed for smooth transport over gentle terrain. A plastic basket litter fits this need because its molded frame creates a solid, unyielding platform that distributes the patient’s weight evenly and resists deformation during movement. The smooth, snag-resistant plastic surface helps prevent catching on rocks or vegetation as you drag or carry the patient, which is especially important when you’re moving over longer distances on a slope or flat ground. It’s durable and straightforward to deploy, with handles that allow coordinated lifting by multiple rescuers, making transport efficient on low-angle terrain. In contrast, other litter types are more specialized for immobilization in vertical or confined spaces, or they’re lighter and less rigid, which can complicate moving a patient across longer, gentle-grade terrain. A flexible litter, while good for tight spaces, can sag or twist under load, reducing stability during transport.