Lifting and Moving Patients

Course overview

Objectives Describe proper lifting techniques Correctly implement techniques that prevent back or other injuries in the EMS provider List the factors that indicate additional support is required to lift or move a patient List the tools and equipment that may aid the provider when lifting or moving patients Explain the capabilities and limitations of equipment used to lift or move patients Explain techniques used to maneuver patients through tight or narrow spaces including stairs hallways and sharp turns Information Covered Lifting and moving patients A. Lifting techniques Safety precautions Guidelines for lifting B. Safe lifting of cots and stretchers C. Power lift or squat lift position D. Power grip E. Back in locked in position F. Carrying Precautions for carrying Guidelines for carrying Correct carrying procedure One handed carrying technique Correct carrying procedure on stairs G. Reaching Guidelines for reaching Application of reaching techniques Correct reaching for log rolls H. Pushing and pulling guidelines Emergency move a. Indications i. Fire or danger of fire ii. Explosives or other hazardous materials iii. Other hazards at the scene iv. To gain access to other patients in a vehicle who need life saving care v. Patient location or position such as cardiac arrest patient sitting in a chair or lying on a bed b. Technique Urgent move Indications a. Altered mental status b. Inadequate breathing c. Shock hypoperfusion d. Technique Non urgent moves a. Indications i. Direct ground lift no suspected spine injury ii. Extremity lift no suspected extremity or back injuries Transfer of supine patient from bed to stretcher a. Direct carry b. Draw sheet method I. Equipment Stretchers and cots a. Types i. Wheeled stretcher ii. Portable stretcher iii. Stair chair iv. Bariatric stretcher b. Standards Tracked systems a. Backboards i. Long ii. Short a. Traditional wooden device b. Vest type device i. Scoop or orthopedic stretcher ii. Flexible stretcher b. Bariatric equipment i. Pneumatic or electronic stretchers ii. Neonatal isolettes c. Maintenance Follow manufacturer directions for inspection cleaning repair and upkeep d. Patient positioning i. Unresponsive patient without suspected spine injury ii. Patient with chest pain discomfort or difficulty breathing iii. Patient with suspected spine injury iv. Pregnant patient with hypotension v. Patient who is nauseated or vomiting e. Bariatric patients i. Patient size ii. Specialized equipment a. Stretchers b. Ambulances i. Ramps ii. Winches c. Personnel considerations