a. Indication for Use. A scoop stretcher can be used in these instances:
(1)
A patient with a suspected spinal injury.
(2)
Special rescue situations requiring vertical movement of the patient.
(3)
A patient with a fractured pelvis.
b. Procedure. Follow this procedure to use the scoop stretcher:
(1) Apply the cervical collar and manually immobilize the head and neck (for
patients with suspected spinal injury).
(2)
Adjust the stretcher to the length of the patient.
(3)
Separate the stretcher into right and left halves.
(4)
Position the stretcher halves on opposite sides of the patient.
(5) Slightly log roll the patient away from you and slide the stretcher half
under the patient on both sides.
(6)
Assemble the head end of the stretcher.
(7) Logroll the patient toward you while the other rescuer brings the foot
ends of the stretcher together and latches them in place.
(8)
Pad the patient's head.
(9) Secure the patient's trunk and lower extremities with three straps
positioned at the patient's chest, pelvis, and the knees.
(10) Immobilize the patient's head with a forehead strap.
Section IV. MANAGEMENT OF SPINAL CORD INJURY
5-26. COMMON ERRORS IN MANAGEMENT
Remember that the goals in treating a patient with a possible spinal cord injury
are to support the patient's vital functions (airway, breathing, and circulation) and to
keep the patient from sustaining more injury. Improper management of the patient can
result in permanent, nonreversible, devastating injury. Look at these common errors in
managing a patient with a possible spinal cord injury.
a. Too much reliance on soft collars.
MD0572
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