When using a stair chair to transport a patient, what should be done first?

When using a stair chair to transport a patient, what should be done first?

• A. Lift the chair manually to test its weight
• B. Check for any obstacles on the stairs
• C. Secure the patient with straps to prevent falls
• D. Inform the patient about the transport process

Answer: (C)

When preparing to transport a patient using a stair chair, the most critical initial step is to secure the patient with straps to prevent falls. Securing the patient is vital for their safety and stability during transport, especially on stairs where the risk of an accident increases. Making sure the patient is safely strapped in ensures they remain in a safe position and reduces the chances of them sliding or falling, which can lead to further injury. The other considerations, while important, come after ensuring the patient's immediate safety. For example, checking for obstacles is crucial in preventing accidents during the lift, but it should follow the confirmation of the patient’s security. Similarly, lifting the chair manually might help in assessing its weight, but it does not address the patient’s safety as a priority. Informing the patient about the transport process is important for communication and comfort, yet it should also occur after the patient is secure in the chair. Prioritizing patient safety is essential in emergency medical situations, making the correct procedure to secure them with straps first.

When preparing to transport a patient using a stair chair, the most critical initial step is to secure the patient with straps to prevent falls. Securing the patient is vital for their safety and stability during transport, especially on stairs where the risk of an accident increases. Making sure the patient is safely strapped in ensures they remain in a safe position and reduces the chances of them sliding or falling, which can lead to further injury.

The other considerations, while important, come after ensuring the patient's immediate safety. For example, checking for obstacles is crucial in preventing accidents during the lift, but it should follow the confirmation of the patient’s security. Similarly, lifting the chair manually might help in assessing its weight, but it does not address the patient’s safety as a priority. Informing the patient about the transport process is important for communication and comfort, yet it should also occur after the patient is secure in the chair. Prioritizing patient safety is essential in emergency medical situations, making the correct procedure to secure them with straps first.