Should you move a patient?

Should You Move a Casualty Before Providing Care?

Rescuers removing a casualty from a dangerous area.

As First Aid students, understanding when and how to move a casualty before providing care is crucial. This decision can impact the outcome significantly and is a common query in emergency medicine.

Key Considerations for Moving a Casualty

1. Dangerous Environments: Move the casualty if their current surroundings pose an immediate threat to life, such as: Always ask yourself, "Will moving the casualty improve their situation or make it worse?" The principle of "Life over Limb" often applies: if the casualty's life is in immediate danger, move them to safety. If not, and their surroundings are stable, keep them in their current position or one of comfort.

• Hazardous environments (e.g., fire, collapsing structures)

• Dangerous animals

• Exposure to toxins or poisons

• Proximity to active machinery

1. Spinal Injuries: If there is a risk of spinal injury, avoid moving the casualty unless absolutely necessary. In such cases, consult with emergency services (911 dispatcher) for guidance before attempting any movement.

First responder calling for help before moving.

Techniques for Moving a Casualty

1. Collar Drag:

• Stand at the head of the casualty.

• Roll the clothing collar behind their neck and bunch it under their armpits.

• Bend with your knees and lift with your legs.

• Drag the casualty to safety.

1. One Arm Drag:

• Kneel at the head of the casualty and slide their torso onto your lap.

• Lay one of their arms across their chest.

• Reach through their opposite armpit to grip their wrist.

• Slip your other hand under the other armpit to grip their forearm.

• Bend with your knees, lift with your legs, and drag to safety.

1. Two-Person Collar Drag:

• Each rescuer should grab the collar on opposite sides of the casualty.

• Face the direction you need to go.

• Bend with your knees, lift with your legs, and drag to safety.

1. Two-Person Carry:

• Combine the one arm drag technique for the torso.

• Have a partner lift the legs by crossing them and gripping under the calves.

• Face the direction you need to go.

• Bend with your knees, lift with your legs, and carry the casualty to safety.

Final Reminders

• Protect Yourself: Ensure your own safety first to avoid becoming an additional casualty.

• Call 911: Always call for professional assistance.

• Act Promptly: Time is critical, but do not rush at the expense of safety.

By mastering these techniques and principles, you can make informed decisions that may save lives in emergency situations. Always stay calm, think critically, and prioritize safety for both you and the casualty.

Saving Grace Medical Academy, teaching you the basics about First Aid sense 2011. Learn CPR today and save a loved one tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical.