Chapter 8: Lifting and Moving Patients Flashcards
Explain the need and use of the most common
patient-moving equipment, the stretcher and
backboard. (pp 274–276)
A backboard is for imobilizing and can be used for moving patients out of tight spaces
The stretcher helps safely and efficiently move patients and limits straing to medical personel
Explain the technical skills and general
considerations required of EMTs during patient
packaging and patient handling. (pp 276–277)
Define the term body mechanics. (p 277)
Body mechanics is the relationship between the body’s anatomical structures and the physical forces associated with lifting, moving, and carrying.
Discuss how following proper patient lifting
and moving techniques can help prevent
work-related injuries. (pp 276–277)
By aligning the shoulder girdle with the pelvis the load on the spine is sent straight down the spine and the load it minimal. By using proper techniques you avoid creating a lever that wrenches against your body systems at many times the force being lifted.
Identify how to avoid common mistakes when
lifting and carrying a patient. (pp 278–280)
- spread your feet
- straighten your back
- Hold your arms as close to your body as possible
- turn your feet and not your back when make a change of direction
Explain the power grip and sheet or blanket
methods for lifting a patient. (pp 280–282)
The power grip:
- Hands should be atleast 10 in apart
- hands inserted under the handle, palms up
- insert hands until the frame fits in the palm of the hand
- curl your fingers and thumb over top rail to avoid dropping
Sheet or blanket method:
- Roll the edge of the bedding until it’s 6 in wider then the patient
- Pull smoothly on the rolled bedding to evenly glide the patient to the bedside
Explain the general considerations required of
EMTs to safely move patients without causing
the patient further harm and while protecting
themselves from injury. (pp 282–287)
- the shape of your back
- the flex of your knees
- avoid twisting the vertebrea
Explain how to carry patients safely on
stairs, including the selection of appropriate
equipment to aid in the process. (pp 287–289)
Use a stair chair if their condition allows them to be moved in a sitting position.
When a patient is unresponsive, must be moved in a supine position, or must be immobilized, secure the patient onto a backboard.
Anticipate the weight shift, down angle is heavier and the stronger provider should be there. The shorter provider should also be at the head.
Describe specific situations in which an
emergency move may be necessary to move
a patient; include how each one is performed.
(pp 294–295)
When there is serious harm to you or the patient you use an emergency move.
Use a drag to pull along the long axis of the body, ideally using a sheet, by pulling on clothing or by pulling under their arms by crossing their arms in front of them and grabbing their wrists.
Describe specific situations in which an urgent
move or rapid extrication may be necessary
to move a patient; include how each one is
performed. (pp 295–300)
the vehicle is unsafe, explosives or other hazardous materials are on the scene, there is a fire or danger of fire, the patient cannot be properly assessed before removal, life threatening conditions, the patient blocks access to another seriously injured patient.
- 1 provider immobilizes the head and spine with their hands
- a c collar is applied to the subject and a primary assessment is performed
- 1 provider supports the torso, the last provider frees the patients legs and moves them together, without moving the pelvis or spine
- the torso provider and leg provider rotate the patient as a unit in several short coordinated movements
- The 1st provider places the backboard against the patients buttocks
- Positions are adjusted and the patient is slid up the backboard in 10-12” movements
- continue to slide until the patient is fully on the backboard
- the free provider continues to stabilize the head and neck while the others carry the patient away and to a prepared stretcher
Describe specific situations in which a
nonurgent move may be necessary to move
a patient; include how each one is performed.
(pp 300–307)
direct ground lift - patients that are found supine and are not expected of having a spinal injury
1) get on one side, roll the patient away, crossing their arms over their chest
2) on command lift to knee height
3) lift to full height and carry to stretcher
extremity lift - when patient is in a narrow space but their is no expected extremity or spinal injuries
1) cross the patients hands over their chest and pull to seated position
2) partner moves between the patients legs, facing the same direction as the patient, hands under their knees
3) raise to a crouch, on command lift and begin to move
Explain the special considerations and
guidelines related to moving and transporting
geriatric patients. (p 307)
- don’t move or carry geriatric patients by limbs as this can cause harm and pain
- Pulling an arm or leg my cause a dislocation or fracture
- their movements may be limited due to medical conditions or arthritis
- Their skin is fragile and can tear
Define the term bariatrics. (p 307)
A branch of medicine concerned with the treatment or prevention of obesity and related diseases.
Discuss the guidelines for lifting and moving
bariatric patients. (pp 307–309)
Explain the need and use for additional
patient-moving equipment (specialized); include
examples. (pp 309–312)
- bariatric stretcher - wider and stronger
- powered stretchers - allow for easier lifts
- portable stretchers - light weight and simple, these can be used in confined spaces
