Extrication

(3 hours: Basic, Intermediate & Paramedic levels)

Objectives:
• Understand the major goals and principles of extrication
• Identify the EMT's position on the extrication team
• Become familiar with extrication techniques and tools
• Understand the hazards and dangers involved in extrication
• Learn how to stabilize a vehicle, gain access to a patient, stabilize and disentangle him, and properly prepare him for removal or transfer
• Learn how to operate in specialized extrication situations, such as snow, ice, water, buildings and underground
• Learn to package and remove patients with suspected spine and other injuries

1. Safety of Rescue Personnel and Patient (30 minutes)
   1. Scene size up
   2. Securing the scene
   3. Proper equipment

2. Principles and consideration in gaining access (60 minutes)
   1. Basic Rescue
   2. Extrication
      1. Cutting tools
      2. Spreading tools
      3. Pulling tools
      4. Lifting tools
   3. "LAST"
      1. Locate # of patients
      2. Access to patient
      3. Stabilize patient
      4. Transport patient

3. Emergency Patient Removal (90 minutes)
   1. Inline stabilization/apply collar
   2. Rapid primary assessment
   3. Stabilize patient to KED/short board
   4. Prepare equipment long board
   5. Place patient on board
   6. Remove patient and board mount on stretcher
   7. Perform secondary survey
   8. Stabilize all injuries
   9. Transport with O²