When should a Kendrick Extrication Device (KED) be utilized?

When should a Kendrick Extrication Device (KED) be utilized?

• A. For immobilizing a sitting patient with suspected spinal injury
• B. For transporting a patient with a broken leg
• C. For stabilizing a patient during a medical emergency
• D. For moving non-critical patients across longer distances

Answer: (A)

The Kendrick Extrication Device (KED) is specifically designed for the immobilization of patients, particularly those who are in a seated position and have suspected spinal injuries. Its construction allows for effective support of the spine while maintaining the patient's position. This is crucial because traditional spinal immobilization techniques may not be suitable for patients who cannot be easily laid flat, such as those trapped in vehicles or in other restricted environments. Using the KED correctly helps to prevent further injury during the extrication process by providing stability to the head, neck, and torso while allowing for safe transport or extrication. The design of the KED allows for quick application and does not require the patient to be moved from their position, which is vital in situations where movement could exacerbate a spinal injury. Other options do not align with the primary indication for the use of a KED. For instance, transporting a patient with a broken leg may require other forms of immobilization specific to the injury rather than a KED. Additionally, while stabilizing a patient during a medical emergency is important, this does not necessarily involve the KED if spinal injury is not suspected. Lastly, moving non-critical patients across longer distances does not require such specialized devices, as there are simpler methods for

The Kendrick Extrication Device (KED) is specifically designed for the immobilization of patients, particularly those who are in a seated position and have suspected spinal injuries. Its construction allows for effective support of the spine while maintaining the patient's position. This is crucial because traditional spinal immobilization techniques may not be suitable for patients who cannot be easily laid flat, such as those trapped in vehicles or in other restricted environments.

Using the KED correctly helps to prevent further injury during the extrication process by providing stability to the head, neck, and torso while allowing for safe transport or extrication. The design of the KED allows for quick application and does not require the patient to be moved from their position, which is vital in situations where movement could exacerbate a spinal injury.

Other options do not align with the primary indication for the use of a KED. For instance, transporting a patient with a broken leg may require other forms of immobilization specific to the injury rather than a KED. Additionally, while stabilizing a patient during a medical emergency is important, this does not necessarily involve the KED if spinal injury is not suspected. Lastly, moving non-critical patients across longer distances does not require such specialized devices, as there are simpler methods for