EMT Lesson Plans

6.15 Instructor Guidance – Evaluating the Backboard Station

This station will test the candidate’s ability to: Demonstrate how to perform manual in-line stabilization on a patient with a suspected spinal injury. (pp 908–909, Skill Drill 26-1) Demonstrate how to immobilize a patient with a suspected spinal injury to a long backboard. (pp 909–911, Skill Drill 26-2) Demonstrate how to apply a cervical collar to a patient with a suspected spinal injury. (pp 917–918, Skill Drill 26-5) Demonstrate the assessment of neurovascular status. (pp 1015–1017, Skill Drill 29-1) Setup: - Backboard kit with accessories (blocks, 2 tape rolls, 3 straps, collar) - One student should be patient, another a head immobilizer. The student performing the procedures should be the only one tested. Instructions to be read to students: “Your patient is an 42-year-old who fell off a ladder. She is complaining of pain to the neck and back, but has no other injuries and is stable. Please demonstrate the isolated skill of supine spinal immobilization as per the skills sheet.” Precautions: Do not lead the student or correct performance. This is a testing station and no feedback should be offered.

Proofing Points:

Block device applied last with 2 restraints – over chin and forehead

One strap over hips

One strap at thigh-level

Arms not restrained in conscious patient; in unconscious patient arms are restrained separately to prevent voids

Chest Straps crossed and secured to board no more than 1 handhold apart

Please note the following: - Straps should be snug without affecting breathing - Order: Head stabilization; assessment of PMS, collar application; restraint of body; restraint of head; reassessment of PMS.