OPS 015 Bariatric Patients

Question 1

Key Information

Under what circumstances will a barbaric patient be moved by FRS personnel?

Answer 1

• There is a significant life risk to patient health in not doing so - confirmed by medical services.
• Medical staff are present throughout, to monitor the condition of the patient.

Question 2

Key Information

When can a FRS attendance be requested to assist with a barbaric patient?

Answer 2

• Once an Ambulance Officer is in attendance
• Upon request from HM Coroner if a minimum of two of the following apply:-
• Deceased classified as medically bariatric.
• Place of death layout creates difficulty.
• Alterations to the building are necessary.
• Specialist equipment is required to move the body.
• Place of death is accessed by steep or narrow stairs.
• Unassisted removal may place members of the public at risk of distress or injury.

Question 3

Key Information

Actions to take in the event of significant risk to the patient eg house fire

Answer 3

• OIC to DRA.
• Fully brief crews on tactical plan.
• May need to consider defend in place tactic until able to extract under controlled conditions.

Question 4

Key Information

Operational considerations when attending an incident involving a bariatric patient.

Answer 4

• Crews to undertake their own DRA
• Specialist equipment (bariatric sheet) Rope Rescue, ALP.
• Correct manual handling techniques.
• PPE to be worn at all times.
• All equipment to be cleaned post incident.
• Consider advice from specialists such as structural engineers, RSU.
• If chargeable K433b must be signed by Ambulance Officer prior to commencement of work.