5. BASIC LIFE SUPPORT EQUIPMENT: IMMOBILIZATION DEVICES AND BANDAGES
Imobilization devices
| Cervical collars | Cervical collars in an ambulance are used to immobilize and support the neck of patients with suspected spinal injuries. They prevent movement of the cervical spine, reducing the risk of further injury during transport. Essential for stabilizing the head and neck, cervical collars ensure safe and effective patient care. |
| Head immobilization device | A head immobilization device in an ambulance stabilizes a patient’s head and neck, especially in cases of suspected spinal injuries. It prevents movement and reduces the risk of further spinal damage during transport, ensuring safe and effective care by securing the head and aligning it with the body. |
| Lower extremity traction devices | Lower extremity traction devices in an ambulance are crucial for stabilizing and immobilizing injured legs or lower limbs, especially in cases of fractures or severe trauma. These devices apply a controlled amount of traction to align broken bones and reduce pain by minimizing movement. Typically consisting of adjustable straps and a rigid frame, they are designed to support the limb and prevent further injury during transport. Some devices include pneumatic or mechanical components to ensure precise and consistent traction. |
| Upper and lower extremity immobilization devices | Upper and lower extremity immobilization devices in an ambulance are essential for stabilizing injured limbs and preventing further injury. These devices include splints, traction splints, and padded supports, which help align and secure broken or fractured bones. For upper extremities, devices such as sling and swathe systems or rigid splints are used to immobilize the arm and shoulder. For lower extremities, traction splints and splinting devices stabilize the leg and pelvis, reducing pain and minimizing movement. These devices are adjustable and designed to fit various body sizes and injury types. |
| Impervious boards | Impervious boards in an ambulance are used to provide a stable, waterproof surface for patients, especially during procedures or when transporting fluids. These boards are easy to clean and disinfect, ensuring a hygienic environment. They protect the ambulance interior from contamination and aid in effective patient care and management. |
Example images of immobilization devices:
Bandages
| Sterile burn sheets | Sterile burn sheets in an ambulance are used to cover and protect patients with burn injuries. They are designed to prevent infection, minimize pain, and reduce contamination. Made from sterile, non-stick materials, these sheets ensure safe, hygienic management of burn wounds during emergency transport. |
| Triangular bandages | Triangular bandages in an ambulance are versatile tools used for immobilizing and securing injured limbs, creating slings, or covering wounds. Their flexible design allows for various applications, including supporting fractured arms and stabilizing injuries. Essential for first aid, they help provide effective care and stabilization during patient transport. |
| Dressings | Dressings in an ambulance are used to cover and protect wounds, control bleeding, and prevent infection. They come in various forms, such as sterile gauze pads and adhesive bandages, ensuring proper wound care. Essential for initial treatment, dressings help maintain hygiene and promote healing during patient transport. |
| Gauze rolls | Gauze rolls in an ambulance are used for wound care and dressing application. They provide a versatile, sterile layer for absorbing blood and exudate, securing other dressings, and managing larger wounds. Essential for first aid, gauze rolls help control bleeding and promote hygiene during patient treatment and transport. |
| Occlusive dressings | Occlusive dressings in an ambulance are used to create a sealed barrier over wounds, preventing air and contaminants from entering. They are essential for treating chest wounds and large open injuries, helping to reduce the risk of infection and promoting a sterile environment during patient transport and care. |
| Adhesive tape | Adhesive tape in an ambulance is used to secure dressings, bandages, and medical devices to the skin. Its strong, medical-grade adhesion ensures that wound coverings stay in place, providing stability and protection. Essential for various procedures, adhesive tape helps maintain effective wound care and supports patient treatment during transport. |
| Arterial tourniquet | An arterial tourniquet in an ambulance is used to control severe bleeding by applying pressure to major arteries. It is crucial for stopping life-threatening hemorrhage from limb injuries. Quick and effective, the tourniquet helps stabilize patients during emergencies, ensuring that bleeding is managed until advanced medical care is available. |
Example images of bandages:
