EMT Training: Lifting and Moving Patients

Introduction

• Course focus: Moving patients, emergency care, transport as EMT.
• Importance of proper lifting techniques and body mechanics to prevent injury.
• Improper lifting is a common cause of EMT and paramedic career-ending injuries.

Equipment Overview

• Wheeled Ambulance Stretcher (Cot):

  • Used to move patients from house to ambulance/hospital.
  • Weighs 40-145 pounds.
  • Not used on stairs; a specific device is used instead.
  • Familiarity with stretcher and ambulance operation is crucial.

• Backboard:

  • Used for spinal injury immobilization and patient transfer.
  • Suitable for patients found lying down and in confined spaces.

Safety Prioritization

• Safety priorities: 1. Self 2. Partner 3. Patient
• Importance of scene safety and body mechanics.
• Proper technique reduces risk of injury.

Body Mechanics and Lifting Techniques

• Proper alignment: Shoulders over pelvis, hands close to legs.
• Avoid leaning forward and incorrect back posture.
• Power Grip:
  • Palms up, fingers at the same angle, handle supported by curved palm.
  • Techniques include the power lift and body drag.

Patient Moving Techniques

• Body Drag:

  • Keep back locked and tighten abdominal muscles.
  • Extend arms no more than 15-20 inches when pulling.

• Stair Chair:

  • Lightweight, foldable for moving patients up/downstairs.
  • Rubber treads control descent.

• Backboard Use on Stairs:

  • For unresponsive patients, carried by strongest EMTs, feet-first.

Weight Considerations

• Safe lifting: 120-220 pounds with two EMTs.
• Over 250 pounds requires four providers.

Emergency and Urgent Moves

• Emergency Moves:

  • Quick removal due to immediate danger.
  • Techniques include clothes drag, blanket drag.

• Urgent Moves:

  • Needed for patient’s condition (shock, unconsciousness).

• Non-Urgent Moves:

  • Safe scene, stable patients; direct ground lift, extremity lift.

Special Patient Considerations

• Geriatric Patients:

  • Consider spinal curvature and joint rigidity.

• Bariatric Patients:

  • Specialized equipment for obese patients.

Patient Positioning

• Position based on condition: Chest pain (Fowler’s), Shock (lay down), Pregnant (left side).

Restraint Use

• Proper technique and team coordination are essential.
• Assess ABCs and document after restraining.

Review and Key Questions

• First lifting rule: Keep back straight.
• Power lift: Palms up.
• Urgent vs. Emergency moves differ by the level of immediate danger.

Final Notes

• Reading the textbook is essential for comprehensive understanding.
• Practice and familiarity with equipment and techniques are crucial for EMT effectiveness.