Patient Handling Techniques in Emergency Medical Services

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to patient handling techniques, equipment, and protocols in emergency medical services.

Palms Up

A recommended hand position for lifting to ensure proper grip and prevent dropping the patient.

Wheeled Ambulance Stretcher

A device specifically designed to roll along the ground, commonly used for transporting patients.

Bariatric Gurney

A wider stretcher designed to accommodate patients weighing over 350 pounds.

Supine Position

A position where the patient is lying on their back.

Manual Gurney

A stretcher that requires physical effort to lift and lower, as opposed to an electric one.

Log Roll

A technique used to move a patient while keeping their spine aligned.

Patient Weight Estimation

A preliminary assessment used to determine the number of personnel needed for lifting a patient.

Electric Gurney

A stretcher equipped with an electric motor that allows for lifting with the push of a button.

Downward Patient Drag

Movement technique that involves dragging the patient while keeping them as close to the ground as possible.

Direct Ground Lift

A technique where EMTs lift a patient directly from the ground to a stretcher, typically used when no spinal injury is suspected.

Halfway Positioning

Positioning the stretcher at half-height during patient transfer to reduce strain and injury risks.

Draw Sheet

A sheet used to drag or lift the patient, minimizing physical strain on the EMTs.

Immobility

A state where a patient cannot move, often requiring specialized techniques for handling and transport.

Hypertension

High blood pressure that may be influenced by a patient's position during transport.

Kyphosis

A spinal condition characterized by an excessive outward curve of the spine, which may affect lifting techniques.

Cerdulubicaq

A medication used to induce vomiting in certain situations, often jokingly referenced.

Tilt Position for Pregnant Patients

Transporting pregnant patients on their left side to avoid pressure on major blood vessels.

Preliminary Commands

Commands given to a team to coordinate actions during patient handling.

Positioning During Transport

Adjusting a patient's position based on their medical condition and comfort.

Restraint Techniques

Methods used to secure a patient who may be a danger to themselves or others, requiring multiple personnel.

Fowler's Position

A standard patient position in which the patient is placed in a semi-upright sitting position (45-60 degrees).

Power Lift

A lifting technique that employs the large muscles of the legs and hips, keeping the back straight and the object close to the body, to lift safely.

Team Leader Role

The individual responsible for giving clear, concise commands to coordinate patient lifting and moving, ensuring safety and efficiency.

Emergency Move

Patient movement undertaken immediately when the patient or rescuer is in immediate danger, or when necessary to provide life-saving care.

Backboard

A rigid device used for immobilizing patients with suspected spinal injuries.

Scoop Stretcher

A device that can be split longitudinally into two or four pieces, which are then fitted around a patient who is lying on the ground; used mostly for hip or pelvic injuries.

Stair Chair

A small, wheeled device used to transport conscious patients up or down stairs or in tight spaces.

Basket Stretcher (Stokes Basket)

A rigid stretcher used for transporting patients over rough terrain or in remote areas.

Extremity Carry

A two-person carry technique used to move a conscious patient with no suspected spinal injury by supporting their extremities.

Recovery Position

A technique to place an unconscious patient on their side to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration.

Power Grip

Gripping with the entire hand, with the palm and fingers coming into complete contact with the object, ensuring a strong and secure hold.

Packaging

The process of preparing a patient for transport, which includes securing them to a stretcher or backboard and addressing immediate needs.

Loading

The process of placing a patient and the stretcher into the ambulance for transport.

Position of Comfort

Placing a patient in a position that minimizes their pain or distress, as long as it does not compromise their medical condition or safety.