Chapter 3: Lifting and Moving Patients

3 things to consider before lifting a patient

-The object

-Your limitations

-Communication

What to use when carrying a pt down steps?

Stair chair, if possible

Three situations to use an emergency move

-The scene is hazardous

-Care of life-threatening conditions requires repositioning

-You must reach other patients

To prevent aggravation of an injury, _____.

move the patient in the direction of the long axis when possible

Urgent move

Patient must be moved quickly for treatment of immediate life threats, but spinal precautions are taken.

When to use an urgent move

-The required treatment can only be performed if the patient is moved.

-Factors at the scene cause patient decline. (ex. heat, cold)

When to use a nonurgent move

There is no immediate threat to life, and the patient is ready for transportation.

When moving a patient on a stretcher, the safest level is ____.

closest to the ground

How much weight can most power stretchers lift?

700 lbs

Bariatric

Having to do with patients who are significantly overweight or obese

How to carry a stretcher on rough terrain

Four EMTs, one on each corner

An indication for a stair chair

Pt with difficulty breathing

Contraindications for a stair chair

-Neck or spine injury

-Unresponsive pt

-Severely altered AMS

-Pt needs airway care

What is a backboard / spine board used for?

Transportation from scene to stretcher, spinal immobilization

Contraindication for scoop stretcher

Spinal injury

Methods for moving a pt with no suspected spinal injury

-Extremity lift

-Direct ground lift

-Draw-sheet method

-Direct carry

Extremity lift

Direct ground lift

Draw-sheet method

Direct carry

How to position an unresponsive patient with no suspected spinal injury?

Recovery position

How to position for shock

Supine (allows maximum perfusion)