“Lift Assist” calls are common in most fire department across the U.S. These calls, while seemingly straightforward, pose a risk to the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers. Even with proper lift techniques, workers who manually lift patients, especially large patients expose themselves to lift-related injuries such as a herniated disc, muscle tears or strains, knee tendon pain, and so on. The typical lifting solution for many fire departments or ambulance staff is for 1-3 or more responders to manually lift the fallen individual back up onto their feet or onto a chair or gurney if unable to walk.
Even with proper lift mechanics, injuries happen, often requiring them to go on temporary disability leave such as Worker’s compensation plans. This is an expensive cost to all parties involved as temporary workers must be brought in or overtime paid to cover shifts.
Patient Lifts for EMS
Patient lifts such as an IndeeLift, are an essential piece of equipment for EMS as they provide a secure, stable, safe and efficient method of lifting patients from the ground with minimal effort. When deployed, the use of patient lifts is crucial for ensuring the well-being of both the patient and the EMS personnel during the lift and transfer process. Manual lifting is eliminated, reducing the physical strain on the EMS personnel, as it allows them to transfer the patient with minimal effort.
Remember the Patient
Prolonged time spent on the ground impacts the patient’s health. The goal in any fall recovery is to lift the patient in the safest and quickest method possible. Use of an IndeeLift provides a quicker and more comfortable lift and transfer experience for the patient; and, the patient can be moved in a manner that minimizes their discomfort and prevents any further injury or harm to both them and EMS staff. This is particularly important for patients who are critically ill or who may have been injured when they fell. IndeeLift helps to reduce the patient’s stress level and provides them with a sense of safety and security during the transfer process.
Call IndeeLift for your EMS patient lift assist solutions.
