Lifting and Moving Patients Quiz

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Questions and Answers

Upon arriving at the scene of a motor vehicle crash, you find a single patient still seated in his car. There are no scene hazards. As you approach the vehicle, you note that the patient is semiconscious and has a large laceration to his forehead. You should:

  • Apply a vest-style extrication device before attempting to move the patient.
  • Apply a cervical collar and quickly remove the patient with a clothes drag.
  • Slide a long backboard under his buttocks and lay him sideways on the board.
  • Direct your partner to apply manual in-line support of the patient's head. (correct)

To protect a restrained patient and prevent him from using leverage to break free, the EMT should secure __________.

  • Only the patient's torso
  • Both arms at the patient's sides
  • One arm above the head (correct)
  • Both arms above the head

You have been called to the scene of a high-speed motor vehicle collision involving two compact cars. For the passenger in the second vehicle, you may need to perform a(n) _____ on the driver in order to reach the patient.

  • Extremity lift
  • You should do nothing different; treat each patient the same.
  • Short backboard
  • Emergency move (correct)

When moving a conscious, weak patient down a flight of stairs, you should:

<p>Place the wheeled stretcher at the bottom of the stairs and carry the patient down the stairs with a stair chair. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

You should use a rigid _____, often called a Stokes litter, to carry a patient across uneven terrain from a remote location that is inaccessible by ambulance or other vehicle.

<p>Basket stretcher (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions or situations presents the MOST unique challenge to the EMT when immobilizing an elderly patient on a long backboard?

<p>Abnormal spinal curvature (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

You may injure your back if you lift:

<p>All of these answers are correct. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In lifting with the palm down, the weight is supported by the _____ rather than the palm.

<p>Fingers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

You are attending to a 26-year-old female who is 34 weeks pregnant. In placing your patient on the stretcher and preparing for transport, you should place her:

<p>On her left side. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When pulling a patient, you should do all of the following, EXCEPT:

<p>When you can pull no farther, lean forward another 15 to 20 inches (38 to 50 cm). (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

To facilitate a safe and coordinated move, the team leader should:

<p>Use preparatory commands to initiate any moves. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

As you and your partner are carrying a stable patient down a flight of stairs in a stair chair, you feel a sudden, sharp pain in your lower back. You should:

<p>Stop the move and request additional lifting assistance. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

You should perform an urgent move in all of the following situations, EXCEPT:

<p>If the patient is complaining of neck pain. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements regarding patient weight distribution is correct?

<p>The majority of a horizontal patient's weight is in the torso. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

You are attending to a 34-year-old male patient who requires transport to the hospital. Your bariatric stretcher has a wider surface area to allow for:

<p>Increased patient comfort and dignity. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The _________ is both the mechanical weight-bearing base of the spinal column and the fused central posterior section of the pelvic girdle.

<p>Sacrum (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

To minimize the risk of injuring yourself when lifting or moving a patient, you should:

<p>Keep the weight as close to your body as possible. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

It is essential that you ____________ your equipment to prevent the spread of disease.

<p>Decontaminate (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In contrast to typical wheeled ambulance stretchers, features of a bariatric stretcher include:

<p>Increased stability from a wider wheelbase. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The proper technique for using the power grip is to:

<p>Lift with your palms up. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements regarding an emergency patient move is correct?

<p>An emergency move is performed before the primary assessment and treatment. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The MOST serious consequence of a poorly planned or rushed patient move is:

<p>Injury to you or your patient. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An EMT may injure his or her back, even if it is straight, if the:

<p>Back is bent forward at the hips. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

You are attending to a 22-year-old female patient who has overdosed. The most appropriate way to bring the patient downstairs is:

<p>Secured to a fracture board with the strongest provider at the head end. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When pulling a patient, you should extend your arms no more than ________ in front of your torso.

<p>15 to 20 inches (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the MOST appropriate device to use when immobilizing a patient with a suspected spinal injury?

<p>Long backboard (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Manual In-Line Support

Supporting the head in a straight line with the body, crucial for preventing further spinal injury in trauma cases.

Restrained Patient Arm Placement

Securing a restrained patient's arm above the head can cause leverage and risk injury. Only secure one arm above the head for safety.

Emergency Move

In emergencies with obstructed access, prioritize quick removal of the patient from the hazardous area before primary assessment.

Stair Chair

A specialized chair designed for moving conscious but weakened patients down stairs.

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Basket Stretcher

A stretcher specifically designed for transporting patients across uneven terrain, providing stability and support.

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Elderly Patient Handling

Elderly patients often have abnormal spinal curvature, requiring careful handling to prevent injury during immobilization.

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Proper Lifting Techniques

Lifting with a curved back or incorrect posture can lead to back injuries. Maintain proper posture and use your legs for lifting.

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Palm Down Grip

Lifting with the palm facing down, supporting the weight on the fingers, offers better strength and control.

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Pregnancy-Related Transport

Positioning a pregnant patient on their left side during transport helps reduce pressure on blood vessels and promotes safety.

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Correct Stance and Positioning During Pulling

Maintaining an appropriate distance from the patient will help prevent back strain and ensure safe pulling techniques.

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Team Coordination in Patient Movement

A clear team leader and coordinated preparatory commands are essential for safe and efficient patient movement.

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Back Pain During Patient Movement

If experiencing back pain while moving a patient, stop immediately and request additional assistance to avoid further injury.

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Moving Patients with Neck Injuries

Unless absolutely necessary, avoid moving patients with suspected neck injuries to prevent further damage.

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Weight Distribution in a Horizontal Patient

Understanding that the majority of a horizontal patient's weight resides in the torso is crucial for maneuverability and lifting techniques.

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Bariatric Stretchers

Stretchers with a wider surface area designed for heavier patients, prioritizing patient comfort and dignity.

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Sacrum as Weight-Bearing Base

The sacrum, located at the base of the spine, plays a vital role in weight distribution and is crucial knowledge for patient handling.

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Carrying Weight Close to the Body

Keeping the weight being carried close to the body minimizes back strain and promotes proper lifting techniques.

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Equipment Decontamination

Following strict decontamination protocols is essential for preventing disease transmission and maintaining a clean and safe environment for patient care.

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Bariatric Stretcher Stability

Bariatric stretchers differ from standard stretchers by having increased stability due to a wider wheelbase.

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Power Grip Technique

Power grip lifting involves lifting with palms facing upwards, maximizing strength and safety during heavy lifts.

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Caution During Emergency Moves

Emergency moves, though performed before primary assessment, should be undertaken with caution to prevent further injury.

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Preventing Back Injuries During Lifting

Always use lifting and carrying techniques that minimize strain on the back to avoid injuries during patient handling.

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What is a bariatric stretcher intended for?

A stretcher designed for safe and comfortable transport of heavy patients. Provides increased width and stability compared to regular stretchers.

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Why is maintaining a good lifting technique important?

It is important to prevent undue strain on the back. This can lead to injuries over time.

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What is the role of the sacrum?

The sacrum is a crucial weight-bearing part of the spine important for patient handling.

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Why is it important to decontaminate equipment?

Clean and decontaminate all equipment after each use to prevent the spread of diseases and infections.

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What is an emergency move?

The emergency move focuses on quickly removing a patient from harm before a full assessment.

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What is the power grip technique?

The power grip technique, with palms facing up, optimizes strength and safety during lifting.

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Study Notes

Lifting and Moving Patients

  • For semiconscious patients: Apply manual in-line support to the head before attempting to move (manual stabilization is crucial in trauma cases).

  • To secure a restrained patient adequately: Only one arm should be secured above the head to avoid leverage and allow for safety.

  • In emergencies with obstructed access, an emergency move may be necessary to reach victims in vehicles.

  • When managing a conscious, weak patient down stairs: Utilize a stair chair and place the wheeled stretcher at the bottom for proper transport.

  • For transporting patients across uneven terrain: A basket stretcher is preferred for stability and support.

Special Considerations for Patient Handling

  • Elderly patients may present a challenge due to abnormal spinal curvature, requiring careful handling to avoid injury while immobilizing.

  • Improper lifting techniques, such as lifting with a curved back or leaning incorrectly, can lead to back injuries.

  • When using palm down grip during lifting: Weight should be supported by the fingers, not the palm, for better strength and control.

  • In pregnancy-related transport: Placing a patient on her left side is preferred for safety and to reduce pressure on blood vessels.

Techniques for Patient Movement

  • Correct stance and positioning are vital when pulling a patient; maintaining an appropriate distance can help prevent back strain.

  • Coordination during a team move is essential; the team leader should give clear preparatory commands to ensure safety.

  • If experiencing back pain while moving a patient, it is crucial to stop and request additional help rather than risk further injury.

  • For urgent moves, avoid moving patients presumed to have neck injuries unless absolutely necessary.

Equipment and Safety

  • Understanding weight distribution is important: A horizontal patient's weight is largely in the torso, affecting how you maneuver and lift.

  • Bariatric stretchers designed for heavy patients have a wider surface area that emphasizes patient comfort and dignity during transport.

  • The sacrum serves as a crucial weight-bearing base for the spinal column and is essential knowledge for patient handling.

  • Always keep carrying weight close to your body to minimize back strain and ensure proper lifting techniques.

Cleaning and Maintenance

  • Decontamination of equipment is essential to prevent disease transmission; proper cleaning protocols must be strictly followed.

Additional Key Points

  • A bariatric stretcher differs from standard stretchers with increased stability from a wider wheelbase, catering to heavier patients.

  • The power grip technique should involve lifting with palms facing up for maximum strength and safety.

  • Emergency moves are performed before primary assessment to quickly remove patients from hazardous situations but should be done with caution to prevent injury.

  • Always ensure lifting or carrying techniques do not place unnecessary strain on the back to avoid injuries during patient transfers and handling.

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