I'm a ski patrol at resort in the Canadian Rockies...our protocol for a back injury has always been a collar, back board and a nice toboggan ride to meet you guys at the bottom of the hill.
Recently, we acquired a couple of full body vacum bags which we use for extractions...there is some slight axial movement with the bag but not much and it allows us to transport in the position found (no straightening etc). On the theory that axial immobilaiztion is paramount once we've secured the pt in the bag we then strap both onto a board.
Lately we've been hearing that there isn't much evidence that immobilzation has better medical outcomes than restricted/gentle axial movement. Some of us are wondering if we shouldn't be using bags even when there is room for a board. We've heard some US protocols now accept either.
Comments??
Recently, we acquired a couple of full body vacum bags which we use for extractions...there is some slight axial movement with the bag but not much and it allows us to transport in the position found (no straightening etc). On the theory that axial immobilaiztion is paramount once we've secured the pt in the bag we then strap both onto a board.
Lately we've been hearing that there isn't much evidence that immobilzation has better medical outcomes than restricted/gentle axial movement. Some of us are wondering if we shouldn't be using bags even when there is room for a board. We've heard some US protocols now accept either.
Comments??