Paramedic National Registry Practice

You are outside of service with a patient complaining of paralysis; how would you extricate the patient?

1. Use a scoop stretcher and console the patient

2. Use of a KEDS board and minimize movement

3. Lift the patient directly onto the stretcher

4. Use a basket stretcher for quick transport

The correct answer is: Use of a KEDS board and minimize movement

The most appropriate method for extricating a patient complaining of paralysis involves using a KEDS board while minimizing movement. This is crucial because a patient with paralysis may have an unstable spinal condition or other injuries that can be exacerbated by unnecessary movement. The KEDS board, designed for spinal immobilization, provides a stable platform that supports the patient’s back and neck, reducing the risk of further injury during the extrication process. Minimizing movement is vital to prevent any potential worsening of the condition, particularly if there’s a spinal injury involved, which can lead to permanent damage or complications. This method allows for safe transport while maintaining the integrity of the patient’s spine, ensuring that any trauma is not aggravated during the extrication. The other methods presented are less ideal for this situation. Using a scoop stretcher may lead to unnecessary lateral movement that can further compromise a potentially unstable spine. Lifting the patient directly onto a stretcher poses a significant risk of movement as well, which could be detrimental. Employing a basket stretcher is more suited for rough terrain and urgent transportation, but it does not provide the necessary support and immobilization required for a patient with paralysis and may lead to complications during handling.