Armchair Observer's questions for Rowley!
Sorry to have missed the appearance last week but made a point of watching
this evening. Intriguing job and well "performed"!
1. How long was the entrapment in total?
2. Did you use analgesia at any stage and, if so, what?
These are simply curiosities. The crux of this enquiry relates to the
cervical spine immobilisation. I noticed that the motorcycle helmet remained
on throughout the extrication and even onto the long board.
My understanding of the current best practice (in the presence of a clear
airway) is controlled removal of the helmet at the first practical
opportunity but certainly before laying supine. The forward flexion of the
c-spine caused by the 4 - 5 cm of helmet over the occiput prevents neutral
alignment of the spine. Manual in-line immobilisation was well demonstrated
and consistent by all!
Was the footage broadcast a result of TV editing, organised chaos in a
difficult situation or am I missing data on spine positioning?
I would be interested in your retrospective thoughts.
Best wishes
Darren
Darren Walter
Research Registrar
West Yorkshire Metropolitan Ambulance Service
|