Strolling along a typical jog through the deep back country forests of Kings Canyon National Park in California, next thing you know, a deep jolt of pain up the backside of your leg. As a heavily active thirty-three year old male, you figure walk it off. But what if you can't?
A passerby on the trail happens to be an EMT and takes a look at your leg. "Your Achilles tendon is about to snap." With a small go bag present, the EMT creates a make-shift splint out of tape and medical gloves. Lucky for Levin, the 33-year old man who nearly tore his tendon, he was able to be moved without any further body damage.
In most cases, it's best not to move a victim when a serious injury occurs. Some instances need movement. If a victim or care provider is not moved and danger (such as a fire, building collapsing, traffic, etc.) is present, follow these steps to move a victim.
1. Shoulder Pull
Keep the victims body aligned, importantly the spine. Do not allow the body to bend or curve. As a care provider, keep your forearms as close to the ground as you can, grab the victim from under the arms or the shoulders of stout clothing. Rest their head, while being mindful of the spine, on your forearms while dragging the victim to safety.
2. Two-Man Carry
Usable for a conscious victim and works the best if two care providers are present. The two grasp each others wrists forming a square with their hands. Have the victim sit on the hands and place their arms around the shoulders of the rescuers.
3. Backpack Carry
Best used when the victim must be moved over a long distance. Position yourself to the victim, where their chest is against your back. Do your best not to move the victim before picking them up. If you have to, place them in a way that is suitable for the weight.
Remember to be conscious of the spine and neck. Pull the victims arms over your shoulders and grasp their wrists. Be mindful of the weight distribution, and whilst moving, use your core for increased stabilization of both individuals.
At the end of the day, when someone experiences a major traumatic injury, we may have to give care more than once on the way to safety. Be conscious of the spine and neck, but at the end of the day, if you don't move quick and precise, depending on the severity of the injury, the victims chances of survival are on the clock.
