First of all, ha! Second of all, what's bad for the patient about this? Third of all, you seem to be making a broad statement about EMS not a specific gripe with immobilizing someone involved in a high-speed auto accident with traumatic injuries, yes? Isn't immobilization indicated in that situation?

 

I look forward to the results of that study. I would love to not have to clear as many spines that are immobilized because of a minor toe stubbing injury. I feel bad for the patients who are fully immobilized and strapped to a board for nothing. You Canucks are so efficient and resourceful in the application of research and practice 'rules'. We can't even figure out how to begin to manage our own healthcare system...dont get me started, this a racing forum...

 

We aren't disagreeing with immobilization of patients with potential for, or obvious signs of severe spinal injuries. We are just frustrated with how far that 'potential' has been exaggerated. Laying strapped to a backboard fully immobilized for any period of time is highly uncomfortable, potentially exaggerating the painful positioning of another injury, increases the risk of pressure ulcers on the sacrum (extended periods), and is not the most anatomically optimized position for pulmonary function, and the list goes on...

 

OK that makes sense, and thanks for the reply/info.

 

No problem. Just glad that that Gregg and Dave's wife are doing well and I hope both are continuing to recover.

And keep up those stool softeners

 

Thanks. She's doing fine today, just generally sore.

BTW, is it normal for EMS to immediately want to take off her bra and panties?

Just kidding.

 

 

Yes, I believe it is...

 

Immobilization is not the EMS service's choice. It's the medical director who likely works in teh same ER as you who deemed it necessary. Most places an unwitnessed fall = long spineboard. Seriously WTF when it may have been out an office chair but not doing so is off protocol and puts both the paramedic and the medical director in serious danger of being sued if there is anything but a perfect outcome.
As for data about non-immobilization of patients. There are lots of studies currently underway in the US. I know of at least two in NC right now. Plus just look over in Europe where they immobilize patients at a rate significantly less than here in North America.

However look at the mechanism that we are seeing with a automobile racing crash. HUGE forces compared to what we see every day in the ER. Lots of potential for distracting injuries.

As for helmet removal. If you are being immobilized it needs to be done. The back of the helmet forces the neck to be flexed a pretty good bit. Yeah you can roll a towel up and put it under the shoulders but you still have a dropoff point below that towel that can cause injury. We don't do it with football players because the shoulder pads can support the body quite well.

As for Eject. Hope that whoever finds you knows how to use it. Outside of teams like Holmatro and such who follow pro series they never have a chance to practice it and there is a LOT of neck movement.

 

Dave, scary. Best to Irene and you.

Cheers

Matt

 

Best wishes for a quick rehab!

Cheers

Matt

 

Yes I agree with Circuit (good post BTW). Though I'm not very familiar with "Eject," I see no need to complicate what should be a very simple thing to do. Removing a helmet while maintaining proper cervical immobilization is not difficult (for medical personnel) to do.

 

Get well soon to your bride. It will really kick in on Tuesday based on my recent experience. Also based on my situation on Thursday roll over in bed and elbow her in the head by accident!

 

Thanks man. Hope you're doing well!

 

What the Eject is designed to do is push the helmet off the head of the driver instead of having someone pull it off and pulling traction on the C-spine at the same time. When it works, it works very well. It's just an inflatable balloon at the crown of the helmet.