DiaMedical USA offers crash carts that come in various sizes, configurations and materials. Each type of crash cart has its own benefits so that resuscitations are properly handled. The following article specifies these considerations so that you have a better understanding when choosing the right crash cart for your hospital or healthcare facility.

Construction: Plastic vs. Metal

Modern crash carts are constructed from lightweight materials so they are easy to move and don’t negatively impact the ability of clinicians’ procedure performance. Metal carts feature unibody construction so that the panels and frame are fused together into a single piece. This provides a lighter, more rigid design with better handling than when panels are mounted to the frame. Aluminum carts are often preferred over steel because they weigh 30% less and corrosion will never be a concern. Crash carts with high-impact, lightweight polymer panels mounted to a steel frame are becoming increasingly popular as well. These carts are durable, corrosion resistant and the seamless design leaves no crevices for bacterial or fungal contamination.

Locking Mechanism

A secure lock is critical to ensure that the crash cart remains fully stocked and ready for use at any time. The most common way to accomplish this is to use numbered plastic security seals. These single-use seals slide into the crash cart lock and can be torn away by hand in order to access the supplies inside. Non-repeating numbers also allow clinicians to keep track of expiration dates for the medications and supplies inside the cart. Crash carts from Waterloo Healthcare also feature transport locks that secure the drawers during transit to the side of the code. This protects clinicians from drawers accidentally flying open when the cart is rapidly pushed around a corner.

Other Features & Accessories

As soon as the code team arrives on the scene with the crash cart, the backboard is placed under the patient’s torso. The backboard should be mounted to the side or the back of the crash cart for easy access. An oxygen tank bracket is essential if resuscitation may be needed in non-patient areas like waiting rooms and cafeterias. Raised edges or wrap-around rails on the top surface help prevent expensive defibrillator/monitor and suction equipment from falling to the floor during transit. Pull-out work surfaces are ideal for documentation and drawing up medications. An outlet strip allows all electronic equipment cords to be consolidated so that they can be plugged in quickly with a single power cord.

Key Takeaway

The right crash cart is an essential component of effective patient resuscitation. Aluminum, steel and plastic configurations are available with a wide variety of features and accessories. It can be difficult to decide which crash cart is best suited for your facility. The DiaMedical USA team is ready to help facilities balance cost and functionality in order to find the right crash cart to meet the needs of their patients. For more information, reach out to a DiaMedical USA expert at 877-593-6011 or info@diamedicalusa.com.