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Abstract
Pelvic Binding Protocols in EMS
Tarek Haggy, Depts. of Science and Chemistry, with Dr. Susan Bodnar-Deren, Dept of Sociology
Background: Pelvic fractures are typically a result of high energy collisions, such as motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). For this reason, pelvic trauma is usually accompanied by a myriad of other injuries. Due to the potentially fatal nature of the injury, Emergency Medical Service (EMS) providers are often the first to administer treatment to patients with suspected pelvic fractures. While difficult to make a proper diagnosis in the field, it is essential to properly stabilize the pelvis whenever a fracture is suspected. Objectives: We suspect that there may be a deficit between regional pelvic immobilization protocols and perceived EMS provider competency in pelvic binding. This study aims to identify if there is an inherent lack of training/emphasis on current prehospital pelvic binding techniques. Methods: A survey will be sent out to prehospital providers in Virginia to gauge perceived competency in pelvic binding and prior training in the technique. Questions will address provider experience, EMS locality, confidence level, and the level of training exposure. Expected Results: We are expecting a lack of emphasis on formal pelvic immobilization training among prehospital providers, especially in EMT-Basics. However, we believe some providers will feel confident in this skill simply due to the deceiving simplicity of pelvic binder application. That said, we expect that EMS providers with extensive experience, training beyond a basic EMT course, or those that practice in more rural localities will have had greater training and exposure to proper pelvic binding technique.
Publication Date
2020
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
Susan Bodnar-Deren, Ph.D.
Sponsorship
Virginia Commonwealth University. Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program
Is Part Of
VCU Undergraduate Research Posters
Rights
© The Author(s)