Chapter 8 EMS

Wheeled Ambulance Stretcher

The primary patient transport device used by EMS. It rolls on wheels, is height-adjustable, and is not designed for use on stairs.

Backboard

A long, rigid device used to move and, when indicated by local protocols, help immobilize patients with suspected spinal injuries or significant trauma.

Guardrails

Side rails on a wheeled stretcher that help prevent the patient from falling during transport.

Power Grip

A lifting grip in which the palms are up, fingers and thumb fully encircle the handle, and the load rests in the curved palm.

Power Lift

A lifting technique that uses the legs rather than the back by keeping the back straight and lifting with the leg muscles.

Proper Lifting Position

Keep the back straight, feet shoulder-width apart, weight close to the body, and lift with the legs instead of the back.

Body Drag

A method of moving a patient by pulling them along the ground while keeping the rescuer's back straight and using the legs for power.

Log Roll

A technique used to roll a patient onto their side while maintaining spinal alignment, often to place them on a backboard.

Team Leader

The rescuer responsible for directing and coordinating all lifting and moving commands.

Preparatory Command

A command that tells rescuers what movement will occur before the actual lift.

Emergency Move

A rapid movement of a patient performed when there is immediate danger to the patient or rescuers.

Urgent Move

A move performed when the patient requires immediate treatment that cannot be provided in their current location.

Non-Urgent Move

A planned patient move performed when the scene is safe and there is time to coordinate the movement.

Clothes Drag

An emergency drag in which the patient's clothing is used to pull them away from danger.

Blanket Drag

An emergency drag in which a blanket beneath the patient is used to move them to safety.

Arm Drag

An emergency drag performed by pulling the patient by the arms.

Vehicle Extrication Drag

An emergency technique used to rapidly remove a patient from a vehicle when immediate danger exists.

Direct Ground Lift

A lifting technique used to place a patient without suspected spinal injury from the ground onto a stretcher.

Extremity Lift

A two-person lift used for patients without suspected spinal injury who are sitting or lying supine.

Direct Carry

A transfer method used to move a patient directly from a bed to a stretcher.

Draw Sheet Method

A transfer technique using a sheet beneath the patient to move them from one surface to another.

Scoop Stretcher

A stretcher that separates into two halves, allowing it to be placed under a patient with minimal movement.

Stair Chair

A device used to move conscious patients safely up or down stairs while seated.

Basket Stretcher

A rigid stretcher designed for carrying patients across rough terrain or during technical rescues.

Vacuum Mattress

A mattress that molds around the patient and becomes rigid when air is removed, providing support and immobilization.

Bariatric Stretcher

A reinforced stretcher designed to safely transport heavier patients.

Fowler Position

A seated or semi-seated position commonly used for patients with chest pain or respiratory distress.

Supine Position

A position in which the patient lies flat on their back; commonly used for patients in shock unless contraindicated.

Recovery Position

A side-lying position used for an unresponsive patient without suspected spinal injury to help maintain the airway.

Late Pregnancy Positioning

Patients in the later stages of pregnancy should be positioned on their left side to improve circulation