Vehicle Extrication Operation or How to Prevent Spinal Injury Using a Kendrick Extrication Device By Mark Etinger At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

An extrication operation or vehicle extrication refers to the process of removing a victim from a vehicle after a traffic accident. The extrication procedure will take place when the conventional means of exiting a vehicle are damaged and a successful operation will be attributed to the rescuers’ knowledge, skills, equipment and response.

The best way to fully understand and internalize the meaning of extrication operation is by realizing that the procedure is not about a victim being removed from a vehicle, but about a vehicle being removed from around the victim. Indeed, every single stop must be done with extra care and delicate touch, in order to minimize the victim’s movement during the procedure and prevent further injury.

Right after the rescue team removes the physical barriers, allowing access to the victim, the EMS rescuers move in. The rescuers have to make sure that the patient’s head, neck and spine are immobilized and secure them in their normal anatomical position.

This can be done by using a cervical collar and a KED. The Kendrick Extrication Device is an important tool that helps rescuers remove a patient safely from a motor vehicle. The KED stabilizes the victim’s head, back, shoulders and torso while immobilizing the patient’s ability to move the head, neck or spine.

A typical Kendrick Extrication Device has 2 head straps, 3 torso straps and 2 leg straps, Together these straps secure the victim’s body. The rescuers slide the device behind the victim and then say “My Baby Looks Hot Tonight” not in order to make the victim laugh but actually to remember the correct order in which the straps should be secured: Middle, Bottom, Legs, Head and Top.

After the victim’s hands are tied, the rescuers hold the side handles of the KED along with the victim’s legs, lifting the victim and lowering him on a spine board. The LSB, (Long Spine Board) or backboard helps the safe transportation of people with possible spinal injuries.

If the victim is found immobilized on the ground, he must be log rolled onto the spine board. This is a very complicated maneuver which requires training by professionals and it usually takes three or more people in order to perform this maneuver in a safe manner.

When the victim is lying on his back, one person should hold the victim’s head with both hands on each side of the head and make sure it stays stabilized. The other rescuers should position themselves at the abdominal area and near the feet.

While maintaining spinal control, the three rescuers will roll the victim on his side, place the stretcher and lower the victim back onto the stretcher.

If you are interested to know more about KED devices, spine boards or stretchers, check out Dixie EMS Supply. We can answer all your of your diagnostic equipment and emergency medical supply needs, with the lowest prices in the industry and a quick turnaround time. Give our customer service department a call or visit us online at www.dixieems.com.

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