Which item is used as a portable stretcher in medical transport?

A cot is commonly used as a portable stretcher in medical transport due to its design, which allows for easy transport of patients in various scenarios, including emergencies. Cots are typically equipped with straps or safety features to secure the patient during transit, ensuring their safety and comfort. Their construction typically allows for the mobility and lightweight characteristics necessary for quick deployment in various settings — be it in ambulances or during outdoor emergency situations.

In contrast, the other items listed do not serve as portable stretchers. A cremation retort is an oven used for cremating bodies, which is unrelated to patient transport. A cortege refers to a funeral procession, using vehicles or other means for transporting the deceased and mourners, while a crypt is a burial chamber, typically a below-ground space designed for interring the deceased. These items do not deliver the functional capability needed for medical transport.