Vertical lifting in confined spaces

[Litch]

What device do you use for vertical lifting of an injured patient in a confined space that does not allow full length immoblization? (You will have to bend the patient at the waist to get them out of the space) LSP half back? SkippyBoard? KED? OSS?

[ADSNWFLD]

We have used the KED for years with a hasty harness tied around it. Recently our neighbor got a LSP halfback and in drill it seems to work well. For most devices like the KED, OSS, etc. you need to use something to lift the pt. To my knowledge the LSP is the only device that can be used to lift the pt.

[dfd3dfd3]

The halfback is the way to go. We have an industrial site that has them, and they do work real nice. We dont have them on the rigs, so if we are somewhere else, we do the Ked witha Hasty harness.

[lutan1]

Definitely the KED....

How restricted is the space? (Size-wise) Could you use a body splint or SKED and stand them up to manuevre the bends?

[fyrfitr42]

I have heard many reports of using the sewn handles of the KED for lifting. However, we prefer to use the KED with a type III full body harness.

[lutan1]

For those using the KED and a harness- don't forget to fit the harness OVER the KED to ensure proper immobilisation is given to the casualty, even whilst lifting....;)

[NJTF1Bowman]

I believe the only device rated for vertical lifting is the LSP Half-Back which can be converted into a class III harness by removing the back plate and head restraint. As for using the KED with a Harness over it I haven't tried that yet but will give it try, sounds like it will work as long as there are no leg fractures...

[Litch]

I don't understand what difference leg fractures would make to using a full body harness for lifting. I could see that a pelvic injury would be a problem, but not a leg injury.

[lutan1]

Hey Litch- I'm assuming when people talk of leg fractures, I automatically think of the pain associated with femure fractures. Now put a KED or harness on and do a vertical lift- Lots of pain and discomfort I think!:(

[Litch]

Appropriate splinting and pain management will go a long ways toward controlling those factors. If it is a situation where time is of the essence in terms of pt care, then the patient will experience pain. Better to be in pain than dead.