CPR and a good sliding surface for difficult
extractions.
The short and long boards are often used together.
For example, at an automobile accident site, the
Corpsmans first task is to assess the whole situation
and to plan the rescue. If bystanders must be used, it is
essential that they be briefed in thorough detail on what
you want them to do. After all accessible bleeding has
been controlled and the fractures splinted, the short
spineboard should be moved into position behind the
victim. A neck collar should be applied in all cases and
will aid in the immobilization of the head and neck.
The head should then be secured to the board with a
headband or a 6-inch self-adhering roller bandage.
The victims body should then be secured to the board
by use of the supplied straps around the chest and
thighs. The victim may then be lifted out. If, however,
3-20
Figure 331.Improvised stretcher using blankets and poles.
Figure 332.Improvised stretcher using rope or firehose.
Figure 333.Spineboards.